Ugandan-born filmmaker Hakim Zziwa, renowned for his creativity in video/film directing, Director of Photography, and producing, is making headlines with his latest project, "Building 62". At 40 years old, Zziwa is carving a niche for himself in the world of cinema, blending storytelling with a unique vision to captivate audiences both locally and globally.
Zziwa's journey into the world of filmmaking is as inspiring as it is unconventional. With an educational background dating back to schools like; Nakasero Nursery, Buganda Road Primary School, Kibuli Secondary School, and a degree in International Business from MUBS, his journey into movie production wasn't just by mistake.
Driven by passion to showcase Uganda's narrative on a global scale, Zziwa invested his earnings from producing marketing content for businesses and higher institutions of learning into film production.
His first brush with filmmaking began with a short film produced in 2016 after completing an intensive digital filmmaking certificate in the United States. Despite budget constraints and the challenge of working with inexperienced friends, Zziwa's debut film was well-received, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
Hakim Zziwa
"Building 62" commits to Zziwa's storytelling rooted in Uganda's rich history and contemporary society. Set in the suburbs of Kampala during the mid-2000s, the action thriller weaves a fictional narrative against the real-life events since Uganda's independence in 1962. "The film not only entertains but also sheds light on societal challenges, offering a glimpse into Uganda's past and present."- he told Blizz Uganda snoops.
Making this film, Zziwa faced challenges ranging from re-learning film story structure during the pandemic to navigating complexities with shooting locations and managing unforeseen expenses. Despite these hurdles, his dedication to his craft propelled the project forward.
While "Building 62" awaits a wider audience, having garnered nominations at prestigious film festivals like the Uganda Film Festival 2023, Africa International Film Festival 2023, and Ikon Awards Film and Television 2024, Zziwa remains optimistic about the future of Ugandan cinema. Through his production company, Hak Focus Entertainment, Zziwa aims to elevate the industry by sharing knowledge and collaborating with fellow filmmakers.
Looking ahead, Zziwa envisions himself as one of Africa's leading film directors within the next five years. His commitment to empowering aspiring filmmakers underscores his belief in the industry's potential for growth. With a focus on storytelling authenticity and technical excellence, Zziwa's work serves as a beacon of hope for Uganda's burgeoning film scene.
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