Abel Mutua and Philip Karanja, often known as Phil Director, have emerged as visionary visionaries who are transforming the Kenyan film industry in the ever-evolving field of filmmaking. Together, they established Phil-It Productions, which transformed the production, promotion, and financial viability of Kenyan movies.
Challenges have accompanied every step of their career, from their first encounter at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication to their ascent from 'Tahidi High' performers to producers.
They expanded their range to encompass other renowned shows like "Mother-in-law" via hard work and talent, moving from on-screen roles to the technical and creative components of the show.
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Recognizing the opportune moment for entrepreneurship, Abel and Phil established Phil It Productions in 2014, focused on artistic excellence and commercial viability. Notable projects, including 'The Real Househelps of Kawangware' and 'Hapa Kule News,' showcased their creative prowess and commitment to delivering quality content.
However, their path to success was not without setbacks. Financial losses and rejected pitches for pilot shows challenged their resilience. Despite these hurdles, their comedy-drama series 'Sue Na Johnnie' gained traction and premiered on Showmax, though it came with significant debts.
Undeterred, Abel and Phil sought guidance from a business consultant and restructured their company, implementing a solid business model. They established a distribution platform, reducing reliance on traditional broadcasters and allowing for greater control over the release of their films. Their perseverance paid off as projects like 'Grand Little Lie' and 'Click Click Bang' achieved remarkable success, generating substantial revenues.
Abel established a storytelling niche on his channel, while Phil launched the show "Becoming CEO" as they expanded their reach to YouTube. They became committed to creating high-quality productions that engage with fans and guarantee a sustainable living for creators after realizing the value of audience support for local content.
The journey of Abel Mutua and Phil Director is a prime example of how creativity and commercial sense can coexist, setting the groundwork for a successful film industry in Kenya.
