The highly anticipated film, “Rush,” directed by Titi Jeje and produced by Oniseire Films, is set to captivate audiences during its UK premiere on Thursday, 7th of March, 2024, at London’s Rich Mix. This star-studded event, hosted at the annual London Shorts Film Festival (LSFF), promises an unforgettable evening of cinematic splendor and red-carpet glamour, all in support of a vital cause.
“Rush” is a gripping romantic-thriller that boldly tackles the role of social media in facilitating ritual-based dismemberment and killings, a gendered crime that disproportionately affects women in Africa and the diaspora. The film has received accolades for its socially pertinent storyline, stellar cast, and stunning cinematography, earning the endorsement of Ekiti State government officials, including the First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Oyebanji.
Lead actors Rotimi Salami, Shade Adegoke and co-stars will join public personalities, GBV campaigning voices, and social media influencers on the red carpet, adding to the excitement surrounding this cinematic clarion call. The film’s director, Titi Jeje, expressed excitement about sharing the film’s critical message with global audiences, emphasizing its role in preventing harm and educating society about this lesser-acknowledged form of GBV.
“Rush” follows the story of Zahra, played by Shade Adegoke, a professional in her mid-twenties who finds herself in a whirlwind romance with Davis, played by Olasukanmi Dada, after a falling out with her boyfriend, Banji. However, Zahra soon discovers that Davis is not who he appears to be, leading her to confront her own strength and resilience.
In addition to the film, “Rush” is launching the “Rush Red Flag (RRF) Campaign” to raise awareness of ritual killings and ritual-based mutilation, particularly targeting women who are culturally predisposed to such risks. The campaign uses social media to sensitize and build awareness, encouraging women to recognize potential red flags in romantic relationships and empowering them to overcome, survive, and thrive.
The RRF campaign, scheduled to go live on Tuesday, 23rd of January, 2024, will feature video clips from campaign ambassadors and stakeholders within the DV sector, sharing behaviors considered red flags in relationships. This campaign aims to educate women about the risks of GBV and empower them to take proactive steps to protect themselves.
With its compelling storyline and powerful message, “Rush” and its accompanying RRF campaign are poised to broaden understanding of gender-based violence and empower women to recognize and address the warning signs in their own lives.
