From the producer who brought us Mpali's gripping polygamy drama comes The Light—a shattering story. The Light is a mirror held up to Zambian life, unflinching and heartbreaking.
The last few decades have seen an explosion in Zambian film and television. From Zuba, Zambia's first telenovela, capturing hearts every weeknight, to Rungano Nyoni's On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, which set the Cannes Film Festival ablaze—it's an incredible time for Zambian cinema. The latest contribution to set the industry buzzing is the film The Light.
A Single Mother's Fight Against Poverty
From Frank Sibbuku, writer and director of the acclaimed drama Mpali and numerous other cinematic gems, The Light tells the complex, heartbreaking story of Mervis, a single mother of six children struggling to keep her family alive. When desperation drives her to steal food from a hostile neighbour, she faces further hardships as she fights to keep her family together and redeem herself. Autism awareness is a central theme, depicting the specific challenges of raising a child with autism.
The Light Cast
The film stars Franciar Msiska Muchangwe, best known for her role as Suwi in the hit drama Zuba. Reviewers praised her performance as heartfelt, soul-stirring, and authentic, delivering a career-defining portrayal as Mervis, steeped in emotion and realism. Rounding out the cast are Chimwemwe Zulu (Mpali), Stand Up Zambia veteran Chibwe Katebe, Wilfred Hoare, Leo Simukoko, and Michael Malambo.
The film premiered at Levy Cinema in Lusaka on December 13, 2025, with tickets selling out. Ticket prices were K200 for ordinary and K500 for VIP. Following the successful premiere, the film is scheduled to screen on the Copperbelt on February 6th and 7th, 2026, at the Lowenthal Theatre in Ndola.
Bookings: +260 976327311 | +260 978608090
Where to Watch The Light
This touching on-screen journey mirrors the lives of many Zambians grappling with motherhood, the indignity of poverty, and the often-unspoken reality of raising children with autism in a world that refuses to accommodate them. The film is currently available on the Inwit app. To experience The Light and support Zambian cinema, follow the film's social media pages for updates on streaming and future screenings.
