New Kenyan film highlights struggles of young men in Coastal cities

Mombasa is poised to take centre stage in Kenya’s film industry with the release of THE CALL, the latest urban drama from First Slate Production.

The film, directed and produced by Lucky Collins, also known as Collins L. Mturi, portrays the struggles of young men in coastal cities as they grapple with religion, crime, and the search for redemption.

At its heart lies a Swahili tagline — “Katika Kila Jambo Jifunze Kusema Alhamdulillah” (In every matter, learn to say Alhamdulillah) — a phrase Mturi says encapsulates the film’s theme of gratitude and faith amid chaos.

THE CALL follows Abdul, a young man played by newcomer Athmani Shughuli, caught between the teachings of the mosque and the lure of Mombasa’s underworld. His world collapses when his mother is attacked in a robbery orchestrated by the very gang he is tied to, forcing him into a battle of silence, faith, and loyalty.

The gang is led by Lady Donata, portrayed by award-winning actress Neema Sulubu, who manipulates vulnerable young men into her syndicate.

The film also stars Ayubu Mshefa, Carolyne Rita, Juma Shibe, Victor Opondo, and Patrick Owino, who plays a politician entangled in crime and power. Sikukuu Khamisi (Hidaya) and rising star Hidaya Jamal (Habiba) add depth to the narrative, embodying resilience and strength while challenging stereotypical portrayals of women in Kenyan cinema.

Written by Hafsa Addasah, the script weaves themes of faith, blood ties, betrayal, and redemption without romanticising street life.

Mturi says Mombasa is more than just a backdrop, describing the city as “a character in itself,” from the sound of the adhan in its alleys to the vibrancy of coastal culture and the shadow of crime.

“This is not a hero’s journey in the traditional sense. It’s a human one — raw, spiritual, and brutally honest,” Mturi said.

The film also marks Mturi’s return to the industry. Beginning his career as an intern camera operator on Waridi in 2009, he went on to work as a cinematographer and director on Mali and productions with Ashiner Pictures, including Utandu, Almasi, Sumu, Kashfa, Nyota, and Penzi. After stepping away in 2018, Mturi says personal reflection inspired his comeback.

“Stepping away in 2018 gave me clarity. I realized I wasn’t just chasing projects, I needed to chase purpose. Life experiences during that break, witnessing how crime, faith, and family shape people in Mombasa, gave me the courage to return with THE CALL. It’s not just a film, it’s a vision that was born out of silence and reflection,” he said.

Positioned as both entertainment and a mirror of society, THE CALL aims to spark conversations on the tension between faith, crime, politics, and family.

The trailer is set to premiere on October 2, 2025.