Since graduating from the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication in 2017 – where he studied cinematography, photography, video editing and creative directing – Hillary Lanogwa Kilaho has been working as a cameraman. It has given him certain insights into the trajectory of east Africa’s creative industries and where it is heading in the near future. The 23-year-old admires Abel Mutual. “His creativity in scriptwriting and directing is on another level. He is very nice in real life and has a very good sense of humour. Abel is a humble go-getter, which I really respect,” he says. While Hillary’sfavourite African TV and film stars include Nigerian actors Osita Iheme, Chinedu Ikedieze, Ramsey Nouah as well as Lupita Nyong’o, who won the Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 2014. He believes that a good actor or comedian is one who can always stay in character, such as comedian Timothy Kimani.
The Gods must be crazy is one of the first films he remembers watching. Hillary understands that it takes more than just studying or having a relevant degree in order to succeed in this very competitive industry. He also knows that “every aspect of the filmmaking process is important if you want to make a good film. You can have a good script and story but with poor technical aspects, such as directing, cinematography, sound, editing etc., it won’t be considered good film.” And once you have a good film, marketing is key. He looks forward to making vital networking connections and friends during the year.