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Once Upon a Time in Uganda (2023): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Once Upon a Time in Uganda (2023) movie poster

Once Upon a Time in Uganda is a 2023 documentary directed by Cathryne Czubek, starring Nabwana I.G.G., Bisaso Dauda and V.J. Emmie. It runs 1 hour 34 minutes and earned $165,456 worldwide. Critics gave it 95% on Rotten Tomatoes and 75 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.1/10.

IMDb rating
7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes
95%
worldwide gross
$165.5K
Echo Score
82
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Once Upon a Time in Uganda (2023) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 34m (94 min)
Director
Cathryne Czubek
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Once Upon a Time in Uganda About?

The premise of Once Upon a Time in Uganda without spoilers.

In Uganda's burgeoning film scene, two friends with a shared love for Chuck Norris movies and 1980s action films decide to make their own action extravaganzas. Driven by unwavering enthusiasm and a quirky sense of humor, they set out to produce their films, bringing the unique Wakaliwood style to a global audience and inspiring joy around the world.

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Themes & Keywords

· 3 tags
  • entertainment documentary
  • uganda
  • african cinema
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Cast & crew

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Cast

Nabwana I.G.G. leads the cast, with Bisaso Dauda and V.J. Emmie. Directed by Cathryne Czubek; 10 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Once Upon a Time in Uganda

· 6 more
From the director

More from Cathryne Czubek

One more film directed by Cathryne Czubek: A Girl and a Gun.

Full filmography
Ratings

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Once Upon a Time in Uganda 95% on Rotten Tomatoes and 75 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.1/10. Our Echo Score gives it 82/100, strongest in sensory experience (90) and weakest in story & flow (68).

82 /100

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Echo Score Breakdown

Overall, Once Upon a Time in Uganda garners strong approval for its celebration of grassroots filmmaking, though its narrative structure occasionally feels uneven. Critics commend the documentary's vibrant visual style and the heartfelt portrayal of its subjects, while a minority note a lack of depth in contextual exploration. User feedback echoes this balance, highlighting inspirational moments alongside concerns about occasional savior framing. The net effect is a commendable yet imperfect tribute that largely succeeds in engaging audiences.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 88

    In terms of art and craft, the film is repeatedly described as stylish and visually engaging. Critics praise the energetic cinematography, production design that captures Wakaliwood's aesthetic, and effective editing that maintains momentum. Minor comments note missed opportunities for deeper exploration of the studio's legacy. Overall, the technical execution is seen as a major strength that elevates the documentary.

  • Character & Emotion 80

    When evaluating character and emotional resonance, reviewers highlight the likable subjects and respectful portrayal that avoids patronising tones. The documentary is praised for allowing personalities to shine, though some users mention a perceived white‑savior element. The balance of empathy and authenticity is generally viewed as solid, contributing positively to audience connection with the filmmakers.

  • Story & Flow 68

    Story and flow receive mixed assessments; many applaud the inspiring narrative of creative perseverance, yet several critics point to a messy structure and unclear conflict. The documentary’s pacing is praised for enthusiasm but criticized for occasional lapses in coherence. Consequently, the storyline is considered engaging but imperfectly organized, leading to a moderate score.

  • Sensory Experience 90

    Sensory experience is uniformly lauded, with reviewers emphasizing the exuberant soundtrack, dynamic sound design, and vivid visual style that mirror Wakaliwood’s lively spirit. The humor and action sequences are noted as particularly effective, creating an immersive atmosphere. No significant sensory criticisms are recorded, resulting in a high assessment of this aspect.

  • Rewatch Factor 85

    Rewatch factor is deemed strong, as both critics and viewers cite lasting appeal and inspirational value that encourage repeat viewings. The documentary’s energetic tone and uplifting message are seen as factors that reward subsequent screenings. Although a few comments mention minor narrative flaws, the overall impression is that the film remains enjoyable on multiple watches.

Box office

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Box Office

Once Upon a Time in Uganda grossed $165,456 worldwide.

2023 box office

Worldwide gross

$165.5K

International
$165.5K
Videos

Once Upon a Time in Uganda Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Once Upon a Time in Uganda.

Trailer

Seen Once Upon a Time in Uganda?

FAQ

Once Upon a Time in Uganda FAQ: Cast & Box Office

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, ratings and post-credit scenes of Once Upon a Time in Uganda, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Once Upon a Time in Uganda?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda runs 1 hour 34 minutes (94 minutes).

When was Once Upon a Time in Uganda released?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda was released on July 25, 2023.

Who directed Once Upon a Time in Uganda?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda was directed by Cathryne Czubek.

More films by Cathryne Czubek

Who is in the cast of Once Upon a Time in Uganda?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda stars Nabwana I.G.G., Bisaso Dauda and V.J. Emmie, among 10 credited actors.

How much did Once Upon a Time in Uganda make at the box office?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda grossed $165,456 worldwide.

How is Once Upon a Time in Uganda rated?

Once Upon a Time in Uganda has 7.1/10 on IMDb, 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 75 on Metacritic and 61% on TMDB.

Does Once Upon a Time in Uganda have a post-credit scene?

No. Once Upon a Time in Uganda has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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