Accra, Ghana – February 15, 2024 – Esteemed Ghanaian filmmaker Socrate Safo proudly unveils his latest cinematic creation, “Tun-tum,” set to have a private screening at Silverbird Cinemas on Friday, February 16, 2024. This premiere is part of the lineup of events organized by the Beyond the Return Secretariat to commemorate Black History Month, which is celebrated in the United States and Canada.
Socrate Safo is a Ghanaian filmmaker renowned for his contributions to the African film industry. With a diverse portfolio spanning decades, Safo continues to push the boundaries of storytelling through thought-provoking narratives and innovative cinematic techniques. In collaboration with fellow Ghanaian filmmaker Michael Tettey Narh, “Tun-tum” explores the rich genealogy and cultural pride of Black people. Tettey is an architect, artist, musician animator and filmmaker. He has explored and offered creative solutions through the various Art forms for about three decades. Through his company Dreams Animation Studios, Mike is set to crystalize his impact in the Creative Space.
The Ghanaian film industry rarely uses the medium of animation for storytelling and feature film, which makes this a groundbreaking production. Through vivid illustrations and deeply embedded in symbolism the film weaves a narrative that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.
“‘Tun-tum,’ which translates to ‘dark’ in the Twi language, offers a gripping exploration of the origins of the African identity,” explains Socrate Safo. “With a unique perspective, the film challenges conventional narratives and invites viewers to reconsider the essence of African heritage.”
The film embarks on a thought-provoking journey, presenting an alternative interpretation of the creation of the African race. Departing from traditional evolutionary theories, “Tun-tum” portrays the selective moulding of Africans by the divine hands of God, using elemental forces to breathe life into the formed beings. As the narrative unfolds, the film introduces a compelling antagonist in the form of an “intruder,” symbolizing historical and biblical influences. Through allegorical storytelling, “Tun-tum” sheds light on the repercussions of colonialism and the erosion of African cultural structures, drawing parallels to real-life struggles faced by communities across the continent.
“In ‘Tun-tum,’ we witness the resilience of the African spirit amidst adversity,” explains Safo. “The film serves as a reminder of our shared history and the enduring quest for unity and restoration.”
‘Tun-tum’ offers a glimmer of hope as Africans from around the world come to Ghana, symbolizing a collective return to ancestral roots. This powerful finale highlights the film’s message of reconciliation and renewal in a world marked by cultural diversity and geographic division. This film will certainly spark interesting conversation, inspire deep reflection and celebrate the legacy of the African spirit.
For media inquiries, interviews, or press passes, please contact:
Beyond the Return Secretariat
+233 024 040 2408
About Beyond the Return:
Beyond the Return is a 10-year initiative with the theme, ‘A decade of African Renaissance’. It’s the follow up to the successful Year of Return campaign in 2019. The initiative operates under the Ghana Tourism Authority and has seven foundational pillars that further deepen the relationship between Ghana and the African diaspora. The seven pillars are; Experience Ghana, Celebrate Ghana, Brand Ghana, Invest in Ghana, Diaspora Pathways to Ghana, Give Back Ghana and Promote Pan-African Heritage & Innovation.
