Award-winning filmmaker Reuben Odanga is set to return to the big screen with Tides, a compelling new Kenyan music romance drama featuring an all-star cast led by Sarah Hassan, Brian Kabugi, Minne Kariuki, and South African actor Dumisani Mbebe.
The feature film, which premieres at Century Cinemax on August 8, promises an emotionally charged story exploring love, sacrifice, poverty and survival against the picturesque backdrop of Kenya's coastline. Following the premiere, the film will screen at additional Century Cinemax locations across Nairobi.
A Story of Love, Music and Survival
Set along the Kenyan coast, Tides follows Salma and Biko, a talented musician couple whose dreams begin to unravel as financial struggles collide with a family crisis.
With performance opportunities drying up and their young daughter's serious medical condition placing enormous pressure on the family, the couple faces impossible choices that threaten to change their relationship forever.
The film explores the emotional cost of survival, asking how far people are willing to go when faced with poverty, desperation and the desire to protect the ones they love.
Star-Studded Cast
Tides brings together some of East Africa's most recognizable acting talents.
Leading the cast is Sarah Hassan, best known for Crime and Justice, alongside Brian Kabugi of MTV Shuga Mashariki fame.
The film also marks the feature film debut of Minne Kariuki, who rose to popularity through Single Kiasi, while South African actor Dumisani Mbebe, known internationally for Netflix's Savage Beauty, adds continental star power.
The supporting cast includes:
Sikukuu Hamisi Jumaa (Sultana)
Zippy Okoth (Nafsi)
Andrew Muthure (Untying Kantai)
Muthoni Gathecha (Boda Love)
Reuben Odanga Explores Complex Human Realities
According to writer and director Reuben Odanga, Tides draws inspiration from the often misunderstood relationships between tourists and locals along Kenya's coast.
Rather than judging these relationships, the film seeks to understand the realities behind them.
"In a world where poverty can strip people of dignity and opportunity, moral choices are rarely black and white," says Odanga.
He adds:
"With Tides, I wanted to explore the human realities behind these relationships and the complex intersection of poverty, desire, power and survival. This film invites audiences to look beyond easy judgments and engage with uncomfortable truths."
Known for acclaimed productions including Nafsi, Mo-Faya, Selina and Lazizi, Odanga continues to build a reputation for telling authentic Kenyan stories with emotional depth.
Original Music at the Heart of the Story
Unlike traditional dramas, Tides is driven by original music composed specifically for the film.
Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress Silayio serves as the film's music director and composer, creating songs that move the narrative forward rather than simply accompanying it.
Odanga revealed that composing original music was initially an ambitious idea but one that Silayio encouraged him to pursue.
"She convinced me and I love being challenged. I was glad to collaborate with her."
For Silayio, the project represented a unique creative challenge.
"I wrote and sang the music from the active perspective of what it would feel like to perform it on camera. That point of view was inspired by my experience as an actor, and it was fun to explore that intersection."
The accomplished artist has previously represented Kenya on the international stage, winning Best Female Artist (East Africa) at the 2005 Kora Awards, competing in The Voice of Holland, and recently appearing on The Winner Takes It All in 2026.
Experienced Production Team
Tides is produced by Winnie Adisa, with an experienced creative team behind the cameras.
The production includes:
Jim Bishop – Director of Photography
Nice Githinji – Intimacy Coordinator
Shiko Daisy – Production Designer
Angela Ciruma – Head of Styling and Wardrobe
Executive producers are Reuben Odanga and Jaqueline Kalekye, while the project is produced under Multan Production.
A New Chapter for Kenyan Cinema
With its blend of emotionally driven storytelling, original music and socially relevant themes, Tides represents another milestone for Kenya's growing film industry.
Backed by a celebrated cast, an award-winning filmmaker and an original soundtrack crafted specifically for the story, the film is expected to appeal to audiences looking for authentic African stories that combine entertainment with meaningful social commentary.
Tides premieres on August 8 at Century Cinemax, with tickets already on sale ahead of what promises to be one of Kenya's most anticipated local film releases of the year.
