INTRODUCTION

Etienne Kubwabo is a filmmaker and comic book writer with a passion for showcasing his stories and culture through his art. To date, he has written, directed, and produced award-winning documentaries and shot over 120 music videos and commercials. His debut feature film, The Difference Between Us will be released worldwide in 2023.

Etienne created Scotland’s first-ever Black superhero in the critically acclaimed comic book series ‘Beats of War’ and discussed its inception on BBC’s The Social, BBC Radio Scotland and STV News.

Etienne continues to work hard to grow Mile Away Films and is determined to put Scottish filmmaking on the map.

INTERVIEW

Could you tell us what inspired you to create Beats of War (Scotland's first Black comic super hero)

Beats of war was inspired by my experiences moving to Scotland and struggling to fit in. There are so many superhero stories out there, but with Beats of war, I wanted to be unique and special. Growing up I always wanted to create stories but I didn't have the resources to do so, but when I moved to Scotland and started being part of the community, I faced racism, being harassed by the police and I started wondering if I belong here. I decided to turn my frustrations and anxiety into a story that deals with these issues in a more cool way. That's how Beats of war came to be. "Beats" stands for the music element linked to the comic book and "War" is what the character is dealing with in that utopia. Beats of war showcase both my worlds of where I come from and where I live now. 

Beats of war storyline: 

ET is exiled from his home planet after absorbing a dangerous power from a neutron star. His people fear his new ability, leaving ET with no choice but to flee to Earth in search of his human mother and a cure AND to find answers to save his planet from robotic invaders Upon landing on Earth, ET discovers a city riddled with crime. While seeking answers to his condition, he is drawn into the criminal underworld, crossing paths with the nefarious Razor Gang. The Glasgow faction is run by the jaded Arthur Coltrane. There are those within the gang who are starting to worry Coltrane has lost his touch and perhaps it is time for new leadership. This includes Steph, Coltrane’s protégé who believes he is now ready to assume control. Not all will support Steph’s claim due to his mixed-race heritage. The Razor Gang has racism entrenched in its history and these viewpoints have not fully faded.

What is your favourite project you've ever worked on and why?

My favourite project as of now is my upcoming feature. This is a very personal story. And I remember doing the Word Up podcast with BBC. We interviewed someone, and he said,'' tell your own stories, because no one can tell it better than you. I love films, it's a very challenging process to create one, but you explore different human emotions, and then allow people to have a conversation about it to reach a conclusion that best fits them. Hopefully making the world better.

What advice would you give those who are looking to develop their careers in Film and TV in Scotland?

Pick up a camera and start filming stuff. Don't be scared of what people say or think.

Could you tell us about your first feature film The Difference Between Us? And when and where will this be shown in Scotland?

This is a very personal film. I grew up with my stepmother, who gave us so much love growing up. But gradually, I distanced myself from that time because I couldn't believe that someone who is not your biological parent could love you as their own. But as I became an adult, I realised that family is not just about blood but those who choose you and love you with no limitations. This inspired our main character Alex’s backstory.

The film also touches on what it's like to be a Black man in the modern world and the stereotypes and assumptions given to us. This can be especially true with regard to people of colour who have moved to, or been born in, the western world.

Family and friendship play a major part in this film. My hope is that people realise that there is no difference between us, we are all human and we have to work on closing the gaps that try to separate us.

The film will be shown at CCA - Glasgow, Summerhall Cinemas - Edinburgh, Stirling University Cinema, Peebles (Scottish Borders), DCA, Outer Hebrides and it will go on a world tour in other parts of the world.

DISCOVER MORE

Etienne Twitter | Etienne Instagram | Mile Away Films Website