Top 10 Ugandan Movies you must watch in 2024

Our passion to help you travel through Uganda has never stopped. And we don’t mind whether you are resident or a traveler. We just love talking about the Pearl of Africa! We have recently given you the best books to read in Uganda, the best hotels to visit, the most romantic restaurants for a date, and now, here we are with the best Ugandan movies to watch this year.

You should however note that, while Ugandan cinema might not be as well-known internationally as some other film industries, there are still several notable Ugandan movies that have gained recognition both locally and abroad. We have created for you a list of the top 10 Ugandan movies we found inspirational, amusing, and impressive you may try out this year. The list goes…..

Best Uganda movies of all times

If you are a fan of African or locally produced movies, then enjoy! Here are some of the best Ugandan movies of all time that you must watch in 2024:

1. Who Killed Captain Alex

First on our list is an action-comedy Ugandan movie directed by Nabwana I.G.G, and released in 2010. This movie gained international attention for its low-budget production and over-the-top action sequences. It has become a cult classic and is often celebrated for its unique charm. I bet you will want to try out this one if you are fan of action-comedy.

2. Kony: Order from Above

You might not be surprised that there is a movie about Kony. And of course, it cannot be in UK, LOL! Kony was directed by Steve T. Ayeny, and released in 2017. This drama is based on the true story of a Ugandan child soldier who is abducted by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and later escapes. It sheds light on the plight of child soldiers in Uganda. You better try it this weekend!

3. The Forbidden

“The Forbidden” is another Ugandan drama movie we have on the list. It was released in 2008, directed by Donald Mugisha. This drama follows the story of a young couple from different tribes whose love faces opposition from their families due to tribal conflicts. The film explores themes of love, tradition, and conflict resolution. Of course, love always wins. This one is suitable for love birds, LOL!

4. Rain

Directed by Daniel Mugerwa, this drama Ugandan movie was released in 2016. It tells the story of a young girl who dreams of becoming a musician despite facing numerous challenges. The film addresses issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and the pursuit of dreams. Get this one to have a taste of what Ugandan cinema is capable of in one show.

5. Beneath the Lies

This is one of the best Ugandan movie series that were released between 2014 and 2015. This television series was created by Nana Kagga Macpherson, and it is a crime drama that revolves around the lives of several characters in Kampala, Uganda. It received praise for its compelling storytelling and well-developed characters. If you are in Uganda or abroad, this is should be your next watch.

6. Queen of Katwe

How do I put it? For me, this has so far been one of the best African movies of all time. While not a Ugandan production, this film will leave you craving for more Ugandan acted movies. It was released in 2016, directed by Mira Nair. It is based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan chess prodigy from the slums of Katwe, Kampala. It received critical acclaim for its inspirational story and authentic portrayal of Ugandan life. How do I put it? Just watch this movie!

7. The Life

2008 release, but still one of the mostly watched Ugandan drama movies. “The Life” was directed by James Oluka, and follows the story of a young man who becomes involved in a life of crime after facing numerous challenges in his community. The film explores themes of poverty, desperation, and redemption.

8. 27 Guns

Well well well! You were probably going to eat me if I left without mentioning about this one. “27 Guns” is a Ugandan historical drama film directed by Matt Bish and produced by Nana Kagga. The film tells the story of the National Resistance Army (NRA) rebellion, led by Yoweri Museveni, which ultimately led to the overthrow of the Ugandan government in 1986. You must have heard of this popular book in Uganda. Yes, there is also a movie about it.

9. Escape from Uganda

“Escape from Uganda” is a 2013 Indian Malayalam-language thriller film directed by Rajesh Nair. Despite being an Indian production, the film is set predominantly in Uganda and follows the story of an Indian family’s attempt to escape from the African country amidst political turmoil and danger.

10. The last King of Scotland

Old is gold, yeh! You can still watch this one. “The last King of Scotland” is a 2006 British biographical drama film directed by Kevin Macdonald. The movie is based on Giles Foden’s novel of the same name and loosely depicts the rise to power of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin through the eyes of a fictional Scottish doctor. I will not give away too much. Just find and watch this Ugandan movie, LOL!

Conclusion

That is from us today. We hope these Uganda movies make a good list for your weekend. However, note that these are just a few examples of notable Ugandan films that have garnered attention over the years. As the Ugandan film industry continues to grow, we can expect to see more diverse and impactful films emerging from the country.