Okpue explores African mysticism in new film— Ogo Okpue

Award-winning director and multidisciplinary designer, Ogo Okpue, has delved into the rich tapestry of African mysticism with his first feature film, ‘A Song from the Dark’, which premiered on Friday, July 12, 2024, on the popular streaming platform, Amazon Prime.

The filmmaker, who is based in the United Kingdom, noted that the fantasy-horror movie brings to life the legendary heroes and heroines of African traditional mysticism, offering a fresh perspective on storytelling.

Starring an ensemble cast, including UK-based actors, and Nollywood stars, such as Nse Ikpe Etim and Wale Ojo; alongside British-Ghanaian actress, Vanessa Vanderpuye, Lola Wayne, Garcia Brown, Yinka Awoni, and others, Okpue is confident that the movie would carve a space for African tales on the global cinematic landscape, much like how western films have immortalised characters including ‘Superman’, ‘Wonder Woman’, and ‘Iron Man’.

Sharing the inspiration behind the movie, Okpue stated, “The inspiration for the story dates back to a certain period of my childhood when my family would visit my grandmother in our village. She happened to be a well-respected traditionalist. Tales of her would intrigue us and as I grew older, I regretted not knowing her more. I wondered what it would have been like if some of her tales were captured in books. The world of African mysticism has not been explored enough in world cinema. And most times it is vilified.”

Over the years, Okpue’s short films have been nominated and screened at various UK and international festivals and events, such as London Independent Film Festival, British Urban Film Festival, Crystal Palace International Festival, Creative Arts Festival, African International Film Festival, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and KUSH Film Exhibitions UK.