Rashid Hunt on Filmmaking and Mombasa’s Growing Film Industry

Q: Who is Rashid Hunt?

Rashid Hunt is a multifaceted creative. While I primarily identify as a documentary filmmaker, I also wear many other hats—I’m a drone pilot, commercial model, writer, film director, cinematographer, business developer, film trainer, and the founder and director of Screen For Real Productions.

Q: Congratulations on Seas The Day! That’s such a cool film title. What inspired it?

Thank you! Seas The Day was inspired by the need to tell climate-related stories, particularly those affecting coastal communities. Coincidentally, the Hidaya event was happening right in the middle of our pre-production, so we seized the opportunity to incorporate it into the film.

Q: Can you describe the creative process behind the film?

Seas The Day is the second documentary I’ve directed and the first of my films to be produced by others. Once we had producers on board, I focused on assembling the right crew for both production and post-production.

Q: How was the casting process?

Since this was a documentary, casting was done on set. For more intimate documentaries, we identify a character in advance, ensuring that availability and accessibility are key factors in our selection process.

Q: What was the most ridiculous thing that happened on set?

We got caught trespassing while filming, and the security guys started harassing us. Then, out of nowhere, our usually quiet sound guy, Omar Ahmed, talked us out of trouble—just by asking rhetorical questions! It started off awkward but ended up being an awesome save.

Q: You were part of Foto Mtaani’s first cohort. How was that experience?

Foto Mtaani is a photography residency initiative by Alliance Française de Mombasa, where photographers hit the streets to capture images that are later exhibited to the public. It was an incredible experience, allowing me to engage with street photography in a deeply immersive way.

Q: How would you describe the film and creative industry at the coast?

It’s a growing industry, and I’m proud to be part of its development.

Q: What inspired you to start directing films?

I initially wanted to be an actor, but most production companies kept turning me down for acting gigs. That frustration pushed me to start writing, producing, and directing my own films.

Q: What challenges did you face while creating Seas The Day?

Funding was a major issue. The film was produced by three incredible women, but the budget was tight, forcing us to make a few compromises along the way.

Q: Are we ever going back to the spoken word era?

I’ve evolved from being a poet to a filmmaker, though traces of poetry still exist in my films. I don’t see myself going back to spoken word fully—maybe on a small scale, but I’ve definitely outgrown that phase of my life.

Q: What was your favorite scene in Seas The Day?

The last scene, shot at Mwembe Tayari at 10 PM, is my favorite. The city was in chaos, and we were surrounded by street kids who looked like they might snatch our equipment. But somehow, we managed to get the perfect shot!

Q: How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy reading books by ancient philosophers and poets like Kahlil Gibran. I also love watching classic films or going for a swim at the beach.

Q: Any upcoming projects?

Definitely! We have a few films currently in progress, along with plenty of exciting ideas in the pipeline.

Q: What would you do differently in your upcoming projects?

More preparation and better collaboration with my crew to ensure efficiency in our workflow.

Q: Any key mentors who guided you along the way?

Sonny Mugambi—a friend and someone I deeply admire—has played a crucial role in elevating my filmmaking journey.

Q: How did you celebrate Seas The Day’s success with your crew?

We’re a fun group, so we definitely let loose for a while and enjoyed the moment!

Q: What motivates you in life?

My motivation is to create life-changing pieces of art—works that leave a lasting impact and resonate with audiences for generations.

Q: What’s your 2025 mantra?

This Year, Focus on You.