In the ever-evolving world of filmmaking, Abel Mutua and Philip Karanja, known as Phil Director, have emerged as visionary leaders reshaping the Kenyan film industry. Together, they founded Phil-It Productions, revolutionizing the creation, marketing, and monetization of Kenyan films.
Their journey has been marked by challenges, beginning with their meeting at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication and their rise from actors on ‘Tahidi High’ to venturing into production. Through dedication and talent, they transitioned from on-screen roles to the technical and creative aspects of the show, expanding their repertoire to include other notable productions like ‘Mother-in-law.’
Recognizing the opportune moment for entrepreneurship, Abel and Phil established Phil It Productions in 2014, focusing on artistic excellence and commercial viability. Notable projects, including ‘The Real Househelps of Kawangware’ and ‘Hapa Kule News,’ showcased their creative prowess and commitment to delivering quality content.
However, their path to success was not without setbacks. Financial losses and rejected pitches for pilot shows challenged their resilience. Despite these hurdles, their comedy-drama series ‘Sue Na Johnnie’ gained traction and premiered on Showmax, though it came with significant debts.
Undeterred, Abel and Phil sought guidance from a business consultant and restructured their company, implementing a solid business model. They established a distribution platform, reducing reliance on traditional broadcasters and allowing for greater control over the release of their films. Their perseverance paid off as projects like ‘Grand Little Lie’ and ‘Click Click Bang’ achieved remarkable success, generating substantial revenues.
Expanding their reach to YouTube, Phil initiated the show ‘Becoming CEO,’ while Abel carved a niche in storytelling on his channel. They realized the importance of audience support for local content, inspiring their dedication to delivering high-quality productions that resonate with fans while ensuring a sustainable livelihood for creators.
Abel Mutua and Phil Director’s journey exemplifies the convergence of creativity and business acumen, laying the foundation for a thriving filmmaking industry in Kenya.
by: Underscore