By Ibrahim S. Bangura
In a major development for Sierra Leone’s film industry, U.S. Africa Movie Productions and Project Star 10 held auditions on Saturday, September 7, 2024, to cast actors for their upcoming movies, Jabba Tribes and Battle for Supremacy. The auditions took place at the 107 Camp Junction, Mr. Habib Thorpe Compound in Waterloo, in the western rural district of Freetown.
The event drew participation from a wide range of industry professionals, including filmmakers, actors, and entertainers, all eager to contribute to what promises to be two blockbuster productions. Jabba Tribes is produced by Michael Mansaray, while Battle for Supremacy is helmed by Executive Producer Evelyn Grote, who attended the auditions to scout for fresh talent.
Grote described the upcoming films as epic productions filled with action, romance, and dramatic twists. She emphasized that the primary goal of both projects is to elevate local Sierra Leonean movie stars to international fame. “Our goal is to help emerging actors realize their potential, which, in turn, will uplift the entire film industry in Sierra Leone,” Grote said. The films are set to be shot in Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso, with post-production work slated for Nigeria.
In a bid to further enhance the quality and reach of these films, the production teams have enlisted a star-studded cast featuring renowned actors from Nigeria, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Among the notable names are Nigerian actor Zubby Michael, Liberian star Frank Artus, and Sierra Leonean talents Ramadan Barrie, Michael Mansaray, Desmond Thorpe, Gina, Dora, and Salamatu Isha. This collaboration is expected to offer valuable exposure to local actors, raising the profile of Sierra Leone’s cinematic talent on a global scale.
Michael Mansaray, Executive Producer of Jabba Tribes, encouraged aspiring actors to seize this unique opportunity to showcase their skills and make a mark internationally. “This is a chance to shine on an international stage and make a significant impact in the film industry,” Mansaray stated. “By spotlighting local talent and providing them with platforms to showcase their skills, we believe we can significantly boost the industry’s reputation and reach.”
The auditions mark a significant step forward in the evolution of Sierra Leone’s film industry, offering promising new opportunities for local actors and contributing to the region’s growing presence on the global cinematic stage. With Jabba Tribes and Battle for Supremacy, Sierra Leonean cinema is poised to reach new heights, bringing local stories to international audiences and creating pathways for emerging talents.
As the excitement builds, these films are expected to be a turning point for the nation’s film industry, expanding its influence and opening doors for future collaborations with global filmmakers.