Rwandan cinema is preparing for a tense and emotionally charged addition with What a Day, an upcoming drama-thriller produced by ZACU Entertainment. The feature film is set to be released soon, though an official date has not yet been announced.

According to a recent Instagram post shared by ZACU Entertainment CEO Wilson Misago, alongside lead actor Gratien Niyitegeka, the film’s release is imminent. The announcement has sparked growing anticipation among audiences eager to see a new kind of story emerge from Rwanda’s evolving film landscape.

Blending psychological tension with everyday realities, What a Day explores how a single decision can spiral into irreversible consequences.

The story follows a struggling motari (motorcycle taxi rider) who steals a client’s bag, only to discover something deeply unsettling inside. Panicked, he attempts to get rid of it, but suspicion quickly begins to close in around him.
Matters worsen when a child dies after eating a banana he gave them, leading to accusations of murder. At the same time, his wife kills their landlord in what is later revealed to be self-defense. Overwhelmed by fear, guilt, and mounting pressure, the couple finds themselves trapped in a situation they can no longer control.

Written and directed by Iriniga Deny, the film stars Gratien Niyitegeka, Uwabeza Leocadie, Bahati Xavier, Kayirangwa Alice, and Enos NDAYIRAMYA. With its layered narrative and morally complex characters, What a Day joins a growing wave of Rwandan productions that move beyond comedy and light drama to explore darker, more psychological storytelling rooted in everyday life.

While the film itself takes center stage, What a Day also marks a noticeable shift in performance for Gratien Niyitegeka, long known for his comedic roles. In this project, he steps away from humor to embody a more troubled, morally ambiguous character — a choice that reflects a broader willingness within the industry to challenge familiar screen identities.

The production features a large number of supporting actors, reflecting the film’s dynamic structure and constant movement between events, locations, and emotional states.

Beyond its local release, What a Day is also expected to travel. The film will be distributed on Zacu TV and later submitted to international film festivals, signaling ZACU Entertainment’s continued ambition to position Rwandan stories on global platforms.

As Rwandan cinema continues to expand in scope and confidence, What a Day stands as a reminder that powerful stories can emerge from ordinary lives — and that a single day can change everything.

About the film

Title: What a Day
Genre: Drama / Thriller
Country: Rwanda
Format: Feature Film (90 minutes)
Production: ZACU Entertainment
Writer & Director: Iriniga Deny
Cast: Gratien Niyitegeka, Uwabeza Leocadie, Bahati Xavier, Kayirangwa Alice, Enos NDAYIRAMYA
Release: Announced as coming soon (date not confirmed)