Starboy

A short drama written and directed by A.R. Ugas and starring Malcolm Kamulete, Mina Andala, and Akai Coleman.

 

Marcus (Kamulete) is an up-and-coming rapper in London, and it is probably only a matter of time before his career launches. One day, he is convinced by his manager (Michael Salami) to attend and perform at a birthday party for a young fan, Joshua (Coleman). Marcus arrives at the location, an apartment filled with attendees, including Joshua's mother, Samantha (Andala), however, Joshua is nowhere to be seen. Then Samantha produces a tablet via which Joshua appears and interacts with the party guests. This unconventional method is used because Joshua is currently in prison, serving a lengthy sentence, and a shocked Marcus struggles immensely to deal with this situation.

 

This short film could be categorised as a mix involving family drama, music, and crime drama. The narrative begins more or less lightheartedly, with Marcus reluctantly going to the party, and things take a sharp left turn when Joshua's incarceration is disclosed. From that moment on, the screenplay turns into a whirlwind of emotions, as Marcus experiences massive self-reflection and bitterly argues with Samantha regarding why she requested his presence and whether Marcus is to blame for her son's imprisonment due to the lyrics in his songs.

 

Kamulete vividly portrays a young musical artist who goes through significant character development, beginning in ambition and carefreeness, then suddenly entering a world of sorrow where he finds himself forced to face the fact that his music might have played a part in a person going down the wrong path. Initially, he refuses to acknowledge that that might be the case; however, he gradually seems to think otherwise. With her dramatic performance, Andala plays a mother who is evidently doing her best to try to cope with the tragedy that occurred involving Joshua, attempting to bring some joy to him, even while he is in prison. She clearly wishes for honesty and dignity. Coleman's character is an individual who may or may not be a victim of music influence.

 

This film follows the aftermath of a terrible event, exploring its consequences, including the suffering it caused and the lives that have been affected. Additionally, influence is another major theme, particularly musical influence and the extent to which it could impact people, particularly youngsters. From a different perspective, this short also serves as a commentary about fame and being a rapper.

 

Can music about violence affect people in negative ways? Can it affect them enough to commit crimes? Two dramatic questions that this story ostensibly asks. An emotional and thoughtful viewing.