As Rwanda’s film industry evolves, filmmakers are exploring new languages, formats, and themes to reach wider audiences. One of the boldest recent projects is Shameless dad, among the first English-language films produced by Rwandans. The drama is produced by Mashinji Studio Ltd, directed by Muhire Emmanuel, and written by Muhorakeye Vivian, a storyteller widely known for her ikinamico on RBA Indamutsa.

So far, only three episodes have been released, with the first one debuting two weeks ago. While Shameless dad is not Mashinji Studio’s first project—the company has already produced both short and feature films—it marks an important milestone in its growth and ambition to reach global audiences.

Emmanuel MUHIRE (Shameless dad’s director)

According to writer Muhorakeye Vivian, the story is based on true events.

“Shameless Dad is about a father who committed unforgivable acts,” she explained. “He raped a young girl, impregnated her, and was forced to marry her. Later, when their daughter grew up, he abused her as well and made her pregnant. This story is inspired by people I personally knew—it happened in my community. Sadly, it’s not the only case. I wanted to write it so that Rwandans understand these things are real, even though our culture strongly forbids incest. By bringing it to light, I hope people learn how to protect themselves and others from such crimes.”

Shameless dad’s team on the set (behind the scene)

The Mashinji team with Umulisa Gahiga—a Rwandan actor featured in the Netflix series “Sandman”—participated in the Kigali Cine Junction Film Festival, organized by Imitana Productions.

The film does not shy away from painful realities. Instead, it confronts issues often left unspoken in society, turning them into a platform for awareness and dialogue.

For director Muhire Emmanuel, the choice of language was as strategic as the storytelling.

“We want Rwandan cinema to grow to an international level,” he said. “English, as a global language, helps us market our films more widely. It also prepares our actors for future opportunities. If, in the coming years, international producers—say Netflix or Hollywood—look for English-speaking Rwandan actors, Mashinji will already have trained talent ready.”

With its bold storyline and international outlook, Shameless Dad is not only pushing creative boundaries but also positioning Rwandan filmmakers on a larger stage. And with more episodes still to come, the film is opening difficult conversations at home while striving to introduce Rwandan stories to the world.