The Cameroonian film industry marked a significant milestone on Saturday, April 18, with the avant-premiere of ‘Lights Out’ at Majestic Cinema Bessengue, in Douala, where a compelling story on dementia, family, and institutional gaps unfolded before an emotionally engaged audience.
Produced by Check Sense Productions and supported by African Pictures International, the film is already gaining international attention ahead of its selection at the American Black Film Festival. The premiere brought together leading media houses, film professionals, and cultural stakeholders, signaling the growing global reach of Cameroon’s storytelling voice.
Earlier in the day, a high-level press conference set the tone for the premiere, framing ‘Lights Out’ not only as a film but as a public health conversation starter.
At the heart of the discussion was a crucial distinction: dementia as a neurological condition rather than a mental illness. Mental health specialist Nguh Stella emphasized that the disease stems from physical damage to the brain, leading to memory loss and reduced daily functioning. She warned that widespread misunderstanding continues to fuel fear and stigma, urging stronger public education.
Psychologist Djeugoum Jean Pierre echoed this concern, noting that while comprehensive national data is still being compiled, awareness initiatives, including those linked to the film, are already helping to shift public perception. He added that the Ministry of Public Health has been actively engaged on the issue for several years.
From a filmmaking perspective, ‘Lights Out’ reflects a deliberate blend of art and advocacy. Director Enah Johnscott described the project as “both entertaining and educational,” while writer and co-producer Buh Melvin emphasized its deeper social mission: to spark dialogue and inspire institutional change, particularly in the area of dementia care facilities in Cameroon.
The film’s emotional core was evident at the evening screening. As scenes unfolded, the audience moved through waves of laughter, tension, and quiet reflection, culminating in a powerful climax that earned a standing ovation. The post-screening discussion further deepened engagement, with the cast and crew offering insight into the project’s creative and emotional demands.
Lead actress Elizabeth Ngongang Wandji spoke candidly about preparing for her role as a dementia patient, highlighting the responsibility of portraying such a sensitive condition with authenticity. Her performance, shaped in part by real-life exposure to patients, stood out as one of the film’s defining elements.
Joining her on screen are acclaimed actors Wale Ojo and Shaffy Bello, alongside Syndy Emade, who used the platform to encourage greater intentionality among women entering the film industry.
Beyond its artistic achievements, ‘Lights Out’ is positioning itself within a broader global conversation. With a multi-platform distribution strategy already in motion, the film is set for its U.S. East Coast premiere in Columbus, Ohio, on May 31, followed by a Pan-African release beginning June 1 in Abidjan.
Shot in Limbe and running for 87 minutes in English, Pidgin English, and French, ‘Lights Out’ continues to build momentum as one of Cameroon’s most socially relevant cinematic works in recent years. As it heads to international audiences, the film carries not just a story, but a message: that understanding dementia is the first step toward compassion, care, and change.
‘Lights Out’ is produced by Carista Asonganyi (Producer and Executive Producer) and Buh Melvin (Baba Proxy), and directed by Enah Johnscott, whose acclaimed credits include Half Heaven (Prime Video, Cameroon’s official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards) and The Fisherman’s Diary (Netflix).
By Doc Moore, Guest Writer
