Once Upon a Time in Uganda (2023): Cast, Ratings & Box Office
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.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 34m (94 min)
- Director
- Cathryne Czubek
- Genre
- Documentary
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- Yellow Veil Pictures
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
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
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.
- Director Cathryne Czubek
- Nabwana I.G.G. as themselves
- Bisaso Dauda as themselves
- V.J. Emmie as themselves
- Alan Hofmanis as themselves
Also Starring in Once Upon a Time in Uganda
· 6 more- Bukenya Charles Themselves
- Kazibwe Ronald Themselves
- Namutebi Ritah Themselves
- Asiimwe Apollo Themselves
- Harriet Nabwana Themselves
- Kizza Manshoor Themselves
More from Cathryne Czubek
One more film directed by Cathryne Czubek: A Girl and a Gun.
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).
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.
-
IMDb 7.1 /10
See on IMDb -
Rotten Tomatoes 95% Tomatometer
Popcornmeter 80%
See on Rotten Tomatoes -
Metacritic 75 Metascore
See on Metacritic -
TMDB 61% User score
See on TMDB
Once Upon a Time in Uganda Box Office
Once Upon a Time in Uganda grossed $165,456 worldwide.
Worldwide gross
$165.5K
- International
- $165.5K
Once Upon a Time in Uganda Trailers & Videos
The trailer of Once Upon a Time in Uganda.
Seen Once Upon a Time in Uganda?
Movies Like Once Upon a Time in Uganda
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including ABC Africa, Once Upon a Time in Ukraine and Call Me Kuchu.
-
ABC Africa 2002 -
Once Upon a Time in Ukraine 2023 -
Call Me Kuchu 2013 -
God Loves Uganda 2013 -
Iwájú: A Day Ahead 2024 -
Once Upon a Time in China 1991 -
Comrades in Dreams 2006 -
Invisible Children 2006 -
We Come as Friends 2015 -
Once Upon a Time in China and America 1997 -
Virunga 2014 -
Once Upon a Time: Sergio Leone 2000
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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