synopsis

Samuel grew up in the Kenyan countryside, where tradition is valued above all else. He is close to his mother but his father, a local pastor, doesn't understand why he isn't married yet. After moving to Nairobi, Kenya's capital, in search of work and a new life, Samuel falls in love with Alex and finds community and belonging. Their love thrives despite the fact that Kenyan laws criminalize anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+. Despite threats of violence and rejection, Samuel and Alex move between their co-existing worlds, hoping to win acceptance in both.

directed by

Pete Murimi

director's bio

Peter Murimi is a multiple award-winning Kenyan TV documentary director focusing on hard-hitting social issues. He recently won the 2019 Rory Peck award for a news feature about suicide. "I am Samuel" is his feature directorial debut, filmed verite style for five years in his home country.