Mighty Popo Debuts Killer Music in Rwanda: A New Era for Cinema
Sunday, September 14, 2025 marked a milestone in Rwanda’s entertainment history as music legend Jacques “Mighty Popo” Murigande premiered his first feature film, Killer Music, at Century Cinema Kigali. The event attracted top names in Rwanda’s creative industry, government officials, and fans signaling a bold new chapter for the nation’s film sector.
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| Where mighty Popo premiered his first film |
A Bold Production with Regional Reach
Directed and produced by Anirban Mitra, an Indian filmmaker based in Rwanda, Killer Music is a two-hour-and-eight-minute thriller inspired by the music industry’s dark undercurrents.
The project reportedly cost over RWF 200 million, and over 250 people were involved many of them local talents who also received training during production.
Students from the Rwanda School of Creative Arts and Music participated in sound design and acting roles, further bridging the gap between education and industry.
Star Power and Supporting The film features an eclectic cast, with actors from Rwanda and East Africa including Uganda and Kenya. Notable guest stars like Jules Sentore, Vanessa Uwase, and Luckman Nzeyimana made appearances, adding further gravitas to the premiere.
Political figures also attended, such as Joseph Nsengimana (Minister of Education), Rwego Ngarambe (State Minister for Sports), and Sandrine Umutoni (State Minister for Arts). Their presence underscored the government’s interest in promoting cultural industries.
Story & Themes: Music, Corruption, and Redemption
Killer Music dives into the inner workings of a music label, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and abuse of power. The plot follows artists navigating contract disputes, creative control battles, and murky criminal entanglements.
One sub‑plot centers on Ira, recently released from prison, whose investigation into a murder uncovers corruption connected to the powerful Kamali, a showbiz magnate. The story ends with a moving prison choir performance, symbolizing the redemptive power of art.
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| Mighty Popo talking about his movie |
Mighty Popo said he aims to "turn Rwandan superstars into actors"and nurture local talent that aspires to global standards. He also described the premiere as a statement that Rwanda has the stories, talent, and capacity to compete internationally.
The film’s debut is also meant to be the first in a trilogy, with plans for festival screenings abroad and possibly streaming deals.
What It Means for Rwandan Cinema
Killer Music raises the bar for technical quality, with surround sound, advanced lighting, and cinematography that match global standards.
By involving students and local professionals, the project fosters capacity building and job creation in Rwanda’s creative sector.
It marks a shift: music meets film, blending two major cultural industries in a homegrown production.
