TIPTOPSTARS

Another way of measuring the strength of a film maker is in their ability to tell a comprehensive story, pregnant with meaning in very few minutes. Some of the most amazing stories have been performed as short films. That probably explains why film critics and festival owners have taken particular interest in short productions of late. Memories of Last Stick, a film by Buminang Elvis Ngwansi readily comes to mind when one thinks about this film genre. The six-minute long film which won the best actor award at the 2009 Fako Film Festival enjoyed general admiration from critics and film lovers, provoking the appetite of Buminang fans for yet more short films. He however did not go to sleep but immediately sprang up with another production, Wash, which from all indications, is going places.

Shot in 2010, the eight-minute long Wash has been making great strides in the film world. “The film has been produced for home festivals and is already grabbing prizes,” its director/producer told TIPTOPSTARS Editor on the line to Yaounde. In 2010 it should be recalled, Wash won the best actor awards at the Yaounde International Short Film Festival. A year later Wash grabbed the same prize at the La Nuit du Cout Metrage festival in Douala.

But what is the story all about? “Wash addresses the unfortunate issue of corruption which has stubbornly refuse to part ways with our country,” said Buminang. “We cinematographically treated the topic in such a way that it pricks the mind of anyone watching and makes them see reason why they should not get involved in this disgraceful social ill,” he went on.

Written by Nancy Kienyo, Wash tells the story of a young boy who hesitates to go home after his school closes down for the term because he has failed his exams. His father’s eminent violent reaction when he presents his bloodily red progress report card is what scares him most. After observing the society around him on his way home, he succeeds in finding the solution to his problem. Watch the Zoomers Pictures production for the rest of the story.

Shot on locations in Yaounde with Zigoto Tchaya Tchameni at the camera, Wash is undoubtedly one of the best things happening to short films currently. The sets were lighted by Jojo Mbarga while Atem Vitus regulated the sound. Ngoh Nostra Nkwenti performed the job of the continuity artist.

Featuring in the film are Ateh Franck Ateh, Zigoto Tchaya, Alasambom Nyintchuo, Yusimbom Eugene and King Aluan. These actors were made up by Ngoh Nostra Nkwenti.