The Search for Weng Weng and Film Safari Ghana

Our journey into batshit cinema begins with The Search for Weng Weng, Director Andrew Leavold’s bizarre history of Filipino B-films as told through his passionate quest to get the lowdown on that country’s littlest superstar, Weng Weng. A 3½’ foot composite of James Bond and Bruce Lee, Weng Weng came to Leavold’s attention thanks to his starring role in the diminutive spy caper, “For Y’Ur Height Only.” Eight years, and three mortgages later, Leavold not only got the inside scoop on this incredible man, but also so very much more!

Next, travel to Africa where Leavold’s obsession for unusual (and incredible!) cinema led him to work with ultra-low budget Ghanaian Film Director Samuel “Ninja” Nkansah (“B14; African Kung Fu Nazis”). With similarities to famed Director Nabwana I.G.G. (“Who Killed Captain Alex?”), Ninja has been cranking out insanely creative genre movies for decades, never dreaming that his work would be seen outside Ghana. Yet, his creativity refused to be contained.
Watch as Leavold parachutes onto a film set in wild West Africa and into the starring role of Ninja’s slavery-themed action movie, “White Devil: Freedom is Coming,” while prepping for “The Taller They Come,” Leavold’s own film project; a Weng Weng-inspired kung fu flick featuring a cast of people of short stature!
Mixing film clips, interviews and cinema-verite footage to create a vivid, vibrant and violent postcard from one of cinema’s final frontiers, “Film Sarari Ghana” chronicles the history of Ninja and Ghana’s crazed DIY digital film scene, as well as the birth of a partnership between two of the world’s most maverick directors.

Director Andrew Leavold will appear in-person to introduce the movies and engage the audience in a lively Q&A. As with other ICFS events, expect prizes, surprises, comfy couches, and a convenient bar. Not Rated.