Pascal Tokodi and film commentator Boaz Sagini Megane had a public disagreement over the state of the local film industry.

Sagini went viral after saying Kenyan movies use the same actors again and again, naming Tokodi as an example. He also said many storylines are predictable and called for more chances for new talent. 

He mentioned specific actors claiming he would rather not watch films featuring them because he was “sick and tired” of seeing the same faces over and over again.

“If I see a movie with these actors…, I’m not watching it because I’m sick and tired of seeing them on my screen,” he said.

In a bold move, he even went ahead and challenged Tokodi to show his versatility by making a big physical change for a role, such as gaining or losing weight.

Tokodi fired back on social media, writing, “This industry owes you nothing.” He explained that acting is very competitive, with few roles and small budgets. 

He added that making a film takes months or years of hard work, and such efforts should be respected, not mocked.

“We’re still building this industry. It won’t always be perfect. Some projects will miss the mark. But every filmmaker, actor, writer, producer and crew member who’s creating something original is laying another brick for the next generation,” Tokodi wrote.

Later, Sagini sent Tokodi a direct message to say his comments were not personal and he only wanted higher standards and more space for fresh faces in Kenyan cinema. 

Tokodi replied that there is a clear difference between useful critique and disrespect. He said feedback should not tear down the work of local filmmakers.

The exchange has since drawn strong reactions online, with many people debating how the dynamics surrounding Kenyan films and those who work in the sector.