In Era of Black Lives Matter, The Movie CRACKA is Timely- Actor Hakeem Kae-Kazim

By Ajong Mbapndah L

A present-day white supremacist is mysteriously transported back into an alternate past where African Americans rule the land and whites are enslaved is the storyline in CRACKA, starring the British-Nigerian actor Hakeem Kae-Kazim.

“The issues in the movie are very important to the current climate and what has been going on in society over the past few years, especially with the Black Lives Matter movement,” says the high-profile actor in a Q & A with Pan African Visions.

Hello Hakeem, thank you for taking the time to be interviewed by us. Could you please introduce the film CRACKA for us?

Cracka is a story which is set in a world where the history and story of America is subtly reversed.

How did you land the role and what were some the things you found exciting about it?

The producer and director got in touch and offered me the character of Dex. The reversal of the slave narrative peaked my interest and I wanted to know and see where this journey would take not only the character but also me.

In the contemporary world of today, how important are the issues raised in the movie?

The issues in the movie are very important to the current climate and what has been going on in society over the past few years, especially with the Black Lives Matter movement. This film is incredibly timely and relevant.

May we know some of the other members of the cast and how you got along with them?

Lorenzo who I play opposite is a wonderful guy. We got on very well along and I got on with other cast members and have remained post friends with everyone.

What were some of the challenges that you faced in playing the role?

The main challenge for me was trying to understand the soul of a man who would do unspeakable things to his fellow human.

In terms of other movies, you have starred in, how do you rate CRACKA?

Cracka rates very highly due to the political and racial nuisances it attempts to address.

The movie is tipped by some for an Oscar, are you excited about the prospects?

Absolutely! Any movie that is tipped for an Oscar makes it even more exciting and makes the journey some much more worthwhile.

In terms of the movie career, how challenging has it been for Hakeem Kae-Kazim to get to the top?

I am still trying to get to the top, so it is very challenging, but it is an extremely enjoyable journey.

For young Africans out there who see in you a role model and would want to emulate your success, any vital tips for them?

Work harder, focus on what you want to do in the business and hone your craft. You have to work harder than hard.

What next for Hakeem Kae-Kazim CRACKA, any other big projects coming up?

I am currently working on the TV production on Dangerous Liaisons in Prague, Czech Republic and please look out for the upcoming feature on Robert Mugabe. The film is called Mugabe, which is about the life of Robert Mugabe, it will hopefully be in cinemas soon.