A Screenplay by Anthony Muchoki, 1998
LOGLINE
Munyaka, a teenage girl who can only sing but never speak, brings unexpected fortune to everyone around her in the rural village of Karurumo River, Central Kenya, but her gift becomes a burden when outsiders arrive seeking to exploit her extraordinary ability.
CHARACTERS
MUNYAKA (17) – A beautiful girl with bright eyes who communicates only through song. Her voice is enchanting, and wherever she goes, good fortune follows. Wears simple traditional kikoi wraps and beaded jewelry.
WANJIRU (45) – Munyaka’s protective mother. A strong, weathered woman who farms their small plot of land. Fiercely devoted to her daughter.
KAMAU (50) – A neighboring farmer. Kind-hearted, with a limp from an old injury. Secret admirer of Wanjiru.
NJOKI (16) – Munyaka’s best friend. Talkative and energetic, she speaks for both of them. Dreams of leaving the village.
MWANGI (60) – The village elder. Wise and traditional, he believes Munyaka is blessed by Ngai (God).
MR. KARIUKI (40s) – A slick businessman from Nairobi in expensive clothes. Represents a music producer. Opportunistic and smooth-talking.
GATHONI (70) – The oldest woman in the village. Half-blind, walks with a stick. Has known Munyaka since birth.
SETTING
Present day. A modest homestead near the fictional Karurumo River in Central Kenya. The main house is a small stone structure with a corrugated iron roof. Surrounding it are banana trees, maize fields, and acacia trees. A well-worn path leads down to the river. The landscape is lush and green, with Mount Kenya visible in the distance.
FADE IN:
ACT ONE
EXT. KARURUMO RIVER – DAWN
The sun rises over the misty river. Birds sing. Water flows over smooth stones. MUNYAKA (17) kneels by the riverbank, filling a clay pot with water. She wears a faded blue kikoi and her hair is braided with colorful beads.
She begins to hum, then breaks into a melodious Kikuyu song – “Mũthenya Mwega” (A Good Day). Her voice is crystalline, pure. As she sings, a fish jumps from the water, landing in her pot. She smiles, unsurprised.
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – MORNING
WANJIRU (45) sweeps the compound with a grass broom. Her face is lined from years of hard work and sun. She looks toward the path, waiting.
MUNYAKA appears, balancing the water pot on her head, the fish visible inside. WANJIRU’s face brightens.
WANJIRU
(in Kikuyu, subtitled)
Mwarĩ wakwa! You’ve brought breakfast from the river again?
MUNYAKA sets down the pot and responds in song, a playful melody that clearly means “yes.” She gestures to the fish, laughing silently.
WANJIRU
(shaking her head, smiling)
Ngai continues to bless you, my daughter. Every morning, something good.
MUNYAKA begins to sing a working song as she starts preparing the fish. WANJIRU joins in the melody while stoking the fire.
EXT. KAMAU’S FARM – DAY
Across the path, KAMAU (50) struggles with his plough. His old ox refuses to move. He wipes sweat from his brow, frustrated. He limps slightly as he circles the stubborn animal.
KAMAU
(to the ox)
Nĩ kĩĩ? What is wrong with you today? We have work to do!
The ox bellows and sits down. KAMAU throws his hat on the ground in defeat.
MUNYAKA appears on the path, carrying a basket of vegetables to trade at the market. She sees KAMAU’s distress and approaches, singing a gentle, soothing melody – a traditional cattle song.
As her voice rises, the ox slowly stands. It walks calmly to the plough and waits to be harnessed. KAMAU stares in disbelief.
KAMAU
Mũthenya ũyũ! This girl… you are truly blessed!
MUNYAKA smiles and continues singing as she walks toward the village. KAMAU watches her go, a mixture of wonder and longing in his eyes.
EXT. KARURUMO VILLAGE MARKET – DAY
A small rural market with makeshift stalls selling vegetables, chickens, and household items. Villagers barter and gossip. NJOKI (16) spots MUNYAKA arriving and runs to her.
NJOKI
Munyaka! Finally! I’ve been waiting. Come, come!
NJOKI grabs MUNYAKA’s hand and pulls her toward a crowd gathered around a stall. An elderly woman, GATHONI (70), is crying.
GATHONI
Everything is gone! Thieves took all my money last night. How will I survive?
The crowd murmurs sympathetically but no one can help. MUNYAKA pushes through gently and kneels beside GATHONI. She begins to sing a comforting hymn – “Tondũ Ngai Nĩ Wendani” (Because God is Love).
As she sings, a young boy runs up.
BOY
Cucu Gathoni! Cucu! I found this bag by the river path. Is it yours?
He holds up a worn cloth bag. GATHONI opens it with shaking hands – her money is all there.
GATHONI
(weeping with joy)
Ngai! Ngai arathime! God has blessed me through this child!
The crowd begins to murmur about MUNYAKA. MWANGI (60), the village elder, stands nearby, watching with knowing eyes.
MWANGI
(to the crowd)
This is no accident. This girl carries a gift. We must protect her.
NJOKI
(proud, to vendors)
That’s my best friend! Munyaka the Lucky One!
A well-dressed man at the edge of the crowd, MR. KARIUKI (40s), pulls out his phone and discreetly records MUNYAKA singing. His eyes gleam with calculation.
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – AFTERNOON
WANJIRU and KAMAU sit on wooden stools under a mugumo tree, sharing tea. The atmosphere is comfortable, familiar.
KAMAU
Wanjiru, your daughter helped me again today. My ox…
WANJIRU
(smiling knowingly)
Was being stubborn? She has that effect.
KAMAU
(hesitant)
I worry sometimes. People are beginning to talk. What if word spreads beyond the village?
WANJIRU
(defensive)
Let them talk. Munyaka is a blessing, not a curse.
KAMAU
I didn’t say curse. But blessings can attract… unwanted attention.
WANJIRU’s expression darkens. She knows he’s right.
WANJIRU
She is all I have, Kamau. When her father died, when everyone said a child who couldn’t speak was cursed, I protected her. I won’t stop now.
KAMAU
(gently)
You don’t have to protect her alone.
Their eyes meet. The moment hangs between them. Before WANJIRU can respond, MUNYAKA and NJOKI arrive, laughing. MUNYAKA is singing a cheerful song.
NJOKI
Mama Munyaka! You should have seen it! Cucu Gathoni got all her money back!
WANJIRU
(to MUNYAKA, concerned)
How many times today?
MUNYAKA holds up three fingers, still humming.
WANJIRU
Three blessings before lunch. The village will have expectations now.
ACT TWO
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – EVENING
The family shares dinner – ugali and vegetables. MUNYAKA sings a grace before the meal. As they eat, KAMAU arrives with MWANGI.
KAMAU
Wanjiru, forgive the interruption. Mzee Mwangi needs to speak with you.
MWANGI
(sitting carefully)
Wanjiru. Munyaka. I come with respect for your home.
WANJIRU
You are always welcome, Mzee.
MWANGI
Today at the market, there was a stranger. A man from Nairobi. He was asking questions about your daughter.
WANJIRU stiffens.
WANJIRU
What kind of questions?
MWANGI
About her voice. About the… events that follow her. He had a camera phone.
WANJIRU
(rising)
Did you tell him anything?
MWANGI
I told him nothing. But others may have spoken. Word of Munyaka has spread before. It will spread again.
MUNYAKA, sensing tension, begins to hum nervously. The sound is discordant, troubled.
KAMAU
Perhaps it’s not a bad thing. Maybe someone can help her. A doctor in Nairobi, someone who understands—
WANJIRU
(sharp)
Help her? She doesn’t need help. She is not broken.
MWANGI
(wise, calm)
No one said broken, Wanjiru. But Kamau speaks truth. The child has a gift that the world beyond our village might treasure. Or exploit.
MUNYAKA’s humming grows louder, more agitated. A wind picks up, rustling leaves.
WANJIRU
Everyone out. Now. She needs quiet.
KAMAU and MWANGI leave respectfully. WANJIRU holds MUNYAKA, singing with her until the girl calms.
INT. WANJIRU’S HOUSE – NIGHT
A single paraffin lamp flickers. WANJIRU and MUNYAKA lie on a shared mat, covered by a worn blanket.
WANJIRU
(softly, stroking MUNYAKA’s hair)
Your grandmother used to sing like you. She said some souls are too pure for ordinary words. They can only speak in music.
MUNYAKA sings a questioning melody.
WANJIRU
Yes, she brought good luck too. But people feared her. They said she was a witch. When she died… they were relieved.
MUNYAKA sits up, alarmed. She sings urgently.
WANJIRU
(holding her)
No, no. You are different. People love you. But love can be dangerous too, mwarĩ wakwa. Love makes people greedy.
MUNYAKA sings a lullaby, comforting her mother now. They hold each other as the lamp burns low.
EXT. KARURUMO VILLAGE – NEXT MORNING
MR. KARIUKI’s sleek black car pulls into the village, out of place among bicycles and handcarts. Children run alongside it, amazed. He parks near the market and steps out, adjusting his expensive suit.
NJOKI spots him and approaches, curious.
NJOKI
Jambo! You are the man from yesterday?
MR. KARIUKI
(smooth, friendly)
Ah! A friendly face. Yes, I was here. I’m looking for someone. A young woman who sings beautifully. Munyaka?
NJOKI
(proud)
That’s my best friend! Why?
MR. KARIUKI
I represent a music producer in Nairobi. We want to help her. Make her a star. Change her life.
NJOKI
(excited)
Truly? She could be on radio? TV?
MR. KARIUKI
And more. Can you take me to her?
NJOKI hesitates, something in his tone making her uneasy.
NJOKI
I… I should ask her mother first.
MR. KARIUKI
(pulling out money)
Of course. Here, for your trouble. I only want to talk. Nothing more.
NJOKI stares at the money. More than she’s seen at once.
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – DAY
WANJIRU works in her garden. MUNYAKA hangs laundry on a line, singing a working song. The chickens seem to lay more eggs near her.
NJOKI arrives, out of breath, conflicted.
NJOKI
Mama Munyaka! There’s a man. From Nairobi. He wants to meet Munyaka.
WANJIRU
(immediately defensive)
What man?
NJOKI
A music man. He says he can make her famous. Put her on TV.
MUNYAKA stops singing. She looks frightened.
WANJIRU
Tell him no. Tell him we want nothing from Nairobi.
NJOKI
But Mama, think of the opportunity! Munyaka could help her whole family. The whole village! She could—
WANJIRU
She could be exploited. Used. No.
MR. KARIUKI appears at the gate, having followed NJOKI. KAMAU is with him, concerned.
KAMAU
Wanjiru, he insisted on coming. I tried to stop him.
MR. KARIUKI
(warm, persuasive)
Madam Wanjiru! Please, I mean no offense. I only want to talk.
WANJIRU
We have nothing to discuss.
MR. KARIUKI
Your daughter has an extraordinary gift. I heard her yesterday at the market. I’ve been in the music industry twenty years – I’ve never heard anything like her voice.
WANJIRU
Good. Now you can leave.
MR. KARIUKI
(looking at the humble homestead)
You work hard. I can see that. But with my help, your daughter could earn more in one month than you make in ten years. She could buy you a real house. Send herself to university.
MUNYAKA begins to sing a warning song, dark and urgent. The sky clouds over.
MR. KARIUKI
(to MUNYAKA)
Exactly! Let that voice be heard by millions! Don’t hide it in this village.
WANJIRU
My daughter is not for sale.
MR. KARIUKI
I’m not buying her. I’m offering her a future. Five thousand shillings just to come to Nairobi for one audition. No commitment.
The number stuns everyone. NJOKI gasps. KAMAU looks worried.
KAMAU
That’s too much for a simple audition. What do you really want?
MR. KARIUKI
(irritated, dropping the charm)
Fine. The truth? I have investors from Europe who pay very well for unique talent. Your daughter is unique. She’ll perform, maybe do some recordings. Everyone wins.
MWANGI
(arriving with several villagers)
No one wins when a child is treated as property.
MR. KARIUKI
(to the crowd)
You people could all benefit! Imagine what money from Nairobi could do for this village. New well. New school. All because of her.
Some villagers murmur in agreement. Others look uncertain. MUNYAKA’s song grows more distressed. Thunder rumbles.
GATHONI
(pushing through the crowd)
Shame! Shame on you for pressuring this family! The child brings blessing freely, and you want to cage it for profit!
MR. KARIUKI
I’m offering opportunity, old woman. Something none of you can give her.
WANJIRU
(stepping forward, fierce)
You will leave my home. Now.
MR. KARIUKI
Think about it. I’ll be at the guesthouse in Karatina for three days.
He hands his card to NJOKI, who takes it reluctantly. He gets in his car and drives away. The villagers disperse, talking among themselves.
MUNYAKA runs into the house. WANJIRU follows.
ACT THREE
INT. WANJIRU’S HOUSE – CONTINUOUS
MUNYAKA sits in the corner, singing a sad, questioning melody. WANJIRU kneels beside her.
WANJIRU
I know you’re confused, mwarĩ wakwa. I am too.
MUNYAKA sings: “What should I do?”
WANJIRU
(crying)
I don’t know. I’ve protected you your whole life from people who would use you. But what if… what if I’m being selfish? What if you deserve more than this village?
MUNYAKA stops singing. She takes her mother’s face in her hands and shakes her head firmly. Then she begins to sing the most beautiful melody yet – a song of home, of love, of contentment.
WANJIRU weeps, understanding.
EXT. KARURUMO RIVER – LATE AFTERNOON
MUNYAKA sits by the river, her feet in the water. NJOKI joins her cautiously.
NJOKI
I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought him here.
MUNYAKA sings forgiveness.
NJOKI
But Munyaka… don’t you ever wonder? About the world outside? About what you could do?
MUNYAKA sings a melody that sounds like “I know who I am.”
NJOKI
(frustrated, crying)
But I want to leave! I want to see Nairobi, see the ocean, see everything! And if you came with me, we could—
MUNYAKA stops her with a song – gentle but firm. She gestures around them: the river, the trees, the distant mountain. This is her world.
NJOKI
(understanding)
You’re happy here.
MUNYAKA nods, then sings a question.
NJOKI
Am I? Happy here?
Silence. NJOKI looks at the river.
NJOKI
I don’t know. Maybe I need to leave to find out. But you… you’re already where you belong.
They hold hands. MUNYAKA begins to sing a blessing song for NJOKI’s journey, whenever it may come.
EXT. VILLAGE GATHERING PLACE – EVENING
MWANGI has called a village meeting. People sit on logs and rocks around a fire. The mood is tense.
MWANGI
We must discuss the stranger’s offer. It affects us all.
VILLAGER 1
The money could build a new school!
VILLAGER 2
But at what cost? The child would leave. Her blessing would leave.
KAMAU
(standing)
The decision is not ours to make. It belongs to Wanjiru and her daughter.
VILLAGER 3
But Munyaka’s gift serves the whole village! When she sings, our crops grow better. Our animals are healthy. Our children are safe.
GATHONI
(angry)
You speak as if she owes you! As if her gift is yours to command!
MWANGI
Gathoni is right. Munyaka has given freely. We cannot demand more.
WANJIRU arrives, MUNYAKA beside her. The crowd falls silent.
WANJIRU
You want to know what we’ll do. I’ll tell you.
She looks at her daughter, who nods encouragement.
WANJIRU
My daughter will not go to Nairobi. She will not be recorded or sold or displayed. Her voice belongs to Ngai, and she shares it as she chooses.
VILLAGER 1
But the opportunity—
WANJIRU
Is a trap. I have seen what the city does to innocent girls. I will not let it happen to mine.
KAMAU
(stepping beside her)
And she will not face this alone. If the man returns, we will send him away together.
Other villagers murmur agreement. But some look disappointed.
MUNYAKA
(suddenly standing, singing loudly)
She sings a powerful song – a declaration. As she sings, the fire burns brighter. The stars seem to shine more clearly. Everyone feels it: a blessing, a promise.
When she finishes, there are tears in many eyes.
MWANGI
The child has spoken. Who are we to argue with such grace?
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – NIGHT
WANJIRU and KAMAU sit outside, watching MUNYAKA dance and sing with the younger children who followed them home.
KAMAU
You made the right choice.
WANJIRU
I hope so. Sometimes I wonder if I’m holding her back.
KAMAU
You’re holding her close. There’s a difference.
MUNYAKA notices them talking and sings a playful, teasing melody. The children giggle.
KAMAU
(laughing)
I think she’s singing about us.
WANJIRU
(smiling)
She likes you. She always has.
KAMAU
(hesitant)
And you? Do you…?
Before he can finish, MUNYAKA runs over and pulls them both up, insisting they dance. WANJIRU laughs, her worry temporarily forgotten.
EXT. KARATINA GUESTHOUSE – NEXT DAY
MR. KARIUKI packs his car, frustrated. NJOKI appears, holding his card.
NJOKI
She’s not coming, is she?
MR. KARIUKI
No. Waste of time.
NJOKI
Would you really have helped her? Or just used her?
MR. KARIUKI
(cynical)
In my business, there’s no difference. Goodbye, village girl.
He drives away. NJOKI watches him go, then tears up the card.
EXT. KARURUMO RIVER – MORNING (ONE WEEK LATER)
MUNYAKA kneels by the river, filling her pot. She begins her morning song. This time, instead of a fish, something else happens: a beautiful sunbird lands on her shoulder.
She smiles, continuing her song. More birds arrive, then butterflies. The river seems to sparkle more brightly.
WANJIRU appears on the path, watching. KAMAU joins her.
WANJIRU
Every morning, something new.
KAMAU
Because that’s who she is. Lucky for herself. Lucky for us.
WANJIRU
(taking his hand)
Lucky for me especially.
They watch as MUNYAKA finishes her song and turns to see them. She waves, her face radiant. The birds fly up in a cloud around her before dispersing into the morning sky.
MUNYAKA picks up her pot and walks home, humming contentedly. The sun rises higher over Karurumo River.
EXT. WANJIRU’S HOMESTEAD – DAY
Life has returned to normal. WANJIRU works in the garden. KAMAU repairs the fence. MUNYAKA hangs laundry, singing. But there’s a new ease among them, a family forming.
NJOKI arrives with news.
NJOKI
Munyaka! Mama Munyaka! Gathoni’s eyesight has improved! The doctor says it’s a miracle!
WANJIRU
(smiling at MUNYAKA)
No miracle. Just a girl with a generous heart.
MUNYAKA sings modestly, but her eyes sparkle.
NJOKI
(pulling out an envelope)
Also, I got this. An acceptance letter. To secretarial school in Nyeri.
MUNYAKA
(singing excitedly, hugging NJOKI)
WANJIRU
That’s wonderful, Njoki! You see? Good things come to those who wait for the right opportunity.
NJOKI
I learned that from both of you. Stay true, and the right path appears.
MUNYAKA begins to sing a celebration song. Soon the whole compound is singing with her – WANJIRU, KAMAU, NJOKI, and villagers who are drawn by the beautiful sound.
As the song builds, the camera pulls back, showing the small homestead, the green hills, the river, and Mount Kenya in the distance. Life in Karurumo continues, blessed by the girl who can only sing.
FINAL SHOT:
MUNYAKA stands at the river’s edge at sunset, singing to the water, to the sky, to the world. Her voice carries across the valley – a gift given freely, asking nothing in return.
FADE OUT.
THE END
DIRECTOR’S NOTES
Language: The screenplay should be performed primarily in Kikuyu with English subtitles. Munyaka’s songs can be traditional Kikuyu melodies or original compositions based on Kikuyu musical traditions.
Themes: The dignity of rural life, the danger of exploitation, the value of community, and the power of choosing one’s own path. Munyaka’s inability to speak conventional language is presented not as a disability but as a different way of being – one that may be more pure and powerful than ordinary speech.
Music: Munyaka’s songs should be diverse – work songs, lullabies, warnings, celebrations – each serving a narrative purpose. Her voice is her language, expressing what words cannot.
Setting: The film should showcase the beauty of Central Kenya – the rivers, forests, and agricultural landscape. The contrast between village simplicity and Nairobi sophistication should be evident but not judgmental.
Running Time: Approximately 30 minutes
END OF SCREENPLAY.
MUNYAKA’S SONGS
Lyrics and Placement Guide for “Ms Goodluck”
1. MORNING RIVER SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Rũũĩ rwa Rũciinĩ)
Type: Work Song / Greeting
Placement: Opening scene at Karurumo River
Purpose: Establishes Munyaka’s gift; attracts the fish; sets joyful tone
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Mũthenya mwega, rũũĩ rũrĩa rũthereraga
(Good day, river that flows)
Njũka gũkũcũna maaĩ, ũheane wega waku
(I come to fetch water, give me your goodness)
Ngai wa igũrũ nĩwe ũratũrathima
(God above is who blesses us)
Tondũ ũmũthĩ nĩ mũthenya mwerũ
(Because today is a bright day)
Hoyahoya, rũũĩ rũrĩa rũtheru
(Flow flow, river so pure)
Ũgĩe na indo njega kũrĩ ithuĩ
(Bring good things to us)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Good day, flowing river / I come to fetch water, share your blessings / God above blesses us all / Today is a bright and beautiful day / Flow flow, pure river / Bring good things to us
MUSICAL NOTES:
Gentle, flowing melody in 3/4 time. Should sound like water trickling over stones. Starts soft, builds to confident chorus. Traditional Kikuyu pentatonic scale.
2. CATTLE CALMING SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Gũhooreria Ngombe)
Type: Working Song / Soothing
Placement: When Kamau’s ox refuses to work
Purpose: Demonstrates Munyaka’s effect on animals; introduces her power to help others
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Ee ndegwa ĩĩ, thikĩrĩria ndagũtigire
(Oh bull, listen I am singing to you)
Wĩra ũrĩ ho, no tũreke tũkahũrũke
(Work is there, but let us be peaceful)
Rĩu nĩ rĩera cia gũthiĩ na thayũ
(Now is the time to go in peace)
Gũtirĩ ũndũ ũgũkũhehenje
(Nothing will disturb you)
Ambĩrĩria, ambĩrĩria na hinya mũhoro
(Begin, begin with gentle strength)
Ngai nĩ ndoita kĩrĩra gĩaku
(God is your shepherd)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Oh bull, listen to my song / Work awaits, but let us be calm / Now is the time for peaceful movement / Nothing will trouble you / Begin, begin with gentle strength / God is your shepherd
MUSICAL NOTES:
Slow, rhythmic, hypnotic. Like a traditional herding song with repetitive phrases. 4/4 time, swaying rhythm. Should feel like a gentle command, not a request.
3. COMFORT HYMN (Rwĩmbo rwa Kũhooreria)
Type: Hymn / Blessing
Placement: At market when Gathoni has lost her money
Purpose: Brings miraculous return of stolen money; shows spiritual dimension
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Tondũ Ngai nĩ wendani, hatirĩ wa gũtigĩrwo
(Because God is love, there is no one left behind)
Maũndũ mothe marĩa mehĩte nĩmagacooka
(All things that are lost shall return)
Ũthĩĩni na kĩeha itikũhithĩte
(Poverty and sorrow do not defeat you)
Wendo wa Ngai ũrĩ gũkũũ hamwe na ithuothe
(God's love is here with all of us)
Maitho ma Ngai nĩmonaga indo ciothe
(God's eyes see everything)
Ũrĩa mũndũ aahũũrire nĩakoona ũteithio
(Whoever suffers will find help)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Because God is love, no one is forgotten / All lost things shall be found / Poverty and sorrow do not conquer you / God’s love is here among us / God’s eyes see all things / Those who suffer will find relief
MUSICAL NOTES:
Similar to traditional Kikuyu Christian hymns. Solemn, steady, full of faith. Think of “Amazing Grace” structure but with Kikuyu musical sensibility. 4/4 time, building to powerful conclusion.
4. NERVOUS HUMMING (Mũgambo wa Gwĩtigĩra)
Type: Warning / Anxiety
Placement: When Mwangi warns about the stranger from Nairobi
Purpose: Shows Munyaka’s intuition; creates atmospheric tension
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Kũrĩ ũndũ ũtarĩ wega ũũkĩte
(Something not good is coming)
Gũtirĩ thayũ, gũtirĩ thayũ
(No peace, no peace)
Roho yakwa nĩĩraarumaga
(My spirit is trembling)
Ũmũthĩ hatirĩ ta ira
(Today is not like yesterday)
Ee Ngai, thaaya
(Oh God, protect us)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Something wrong is coming / No peace, no peace / My spirit trembles / Today is not like yesterday / Oh God, protect us
MUSICAL NOTES:
Discordant, atonal at times. Not a full song but anxious humming that occasionally breaks into words. Minor key, unresolved chords. Should make audience uncomfortable.
5. GRANDMOTHER’S LULLABY (Rũhĩũ rwa Cũcũ)
Type: Lullaby / Memory
Placement: Night scene when Wanjiru tells Munyaka about her grandmother
Purpose: Connects Munyaka to her lineage; intimate mother-daughter moment
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Nana mwana wakwa, nana kĩĩrorerwo kĩa Ngai
(Sleep my child, sleep God's treasure)
Njata nĩcirakũmenyerera ũtukũ wothe
(Stars are watching over you all night)
Cũcũ aarĩ mũini tawe ta wee
(Grandmother was a singer like you)
Mũgambo wake warĩ mũraihu-rĩ
(Her voice was so beautiful)
Rĩu we ũrĩ mũrũri wa ngwatanĩro ĩyo
(Now you are the keeper of that tradition)
Nana na thayũ, mwarĩ wa ngai
(Sleep in peace, daughter of blessing)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Sleep my child, sleep God’s treasure / Stars watch over you through the night / Grandmother was a singer like you / Her voice was so beautiful / Now you carry that tradition / Sleep in peace, blessed daughter
MUSICAL NOTES:
Gentle, maternal, traditional Kikuyu lullaby structure. Very soft, repetitive melody. 3/4 waltz time. Should be soothing enough to actually lull someone to sleep.
6. DECLARATION OF SELF (Rwĩmbo rwa Kwĩyũra)
Type: Affirmation / Identity
Placement: By the river with Njoki, when asked about leaving
Purpose: Munyaka states who she is and her contentment
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Nĩnjũĩ ndĩrĩ ũ, nĩnjũĩ harĩa ndũire
(I know who I am, I know where I belong)
Mũciĩ ũyũ nĩ gwakwa, rũũĩ rũrũ nĩ rwakwa
(This home is mine, this river is mine)
Ndirĩ na wendo wa gũthiĩ kũraya
(I have no desire to go far)
Ũrĩa ndĩ nakwo nĩ ũgaacĩru wa Ngai
(What I have is God's wealth)
Mũgambo wakwa nĩ wa gũkĩra haha
(My voice is for singing here)
Nĩ ũgwĩ mũthamaki wa ngoro yakwa
(This is the kingdom of my heart)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
I know who I am, I know where I belong / This home is mine, this river is mine / I have no wish to go far away / What I have is God’s true wealth / My voice is for singing here / This is the kingdom of my heart
MUSICAL NOTES:
Strong, confident, major key. Traditional but with personal flair. Should sound like someone who has found their truth. 4/4 time, anthem-like.
7. BLESSING FOR A FRIEND (Kĩrathimo kĩa Mũrata)
Type: Blessing / Farewell
Placement: At river when Njoki talks about wanting to leave
Purpose: Shows unconditional love; blesses different paths
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Thii na thayũ, mũrata wakwa
(Go in peace, my friend)
Njĩra yaku ĩrotuĩka nũngarũ
(May your path be smooth)
Kũrĩa ũgũthiĩ, ũkonana na wega
(Wherever you go, may you find goodness)
Ningĩ rĩrĩa ũgũcooka, tũkonana rĩngĩ
(And when you return, we shall meet again)
Ngoro yakwa ĩgũtwarana nawe
(My heart travels with you)
Tondũ wendo witũ ndũrĩ mũhuro wa gũthira
(Because our love has no ending)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Go in peace, my friend / May your path be smooth / Wherever you go, may you find goodness / When you return, we shall meet again / My heart travels with you / Because our love is endless
MUSICAL NOTES:
Bittersweet melody, both sad and hopeful. Like a traditional blessing song. Should have a sense of release and letting go. 3/4 time, flowing and gentle.
8. WARNING STORM SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Kĩhuhũko)
Type: Warning / Dark Prophecy
Placement: When Mr. Kariuki pressures the family
Purpose: Shows Munyaka’s power to sense danger; creates storm
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Huhũka! Huhũka! Kĩrigu kĩroka
(Storm! Storm! Danger comes)
Mũndũ ũyũ ndarĩ na wendo wa ma
(This person has no true love)
Ekwenda kũnyita ngwatanĩro yakwa
(He wants to capture my gift)
Huhũka! Ngai, rora!
(Storm! God, look!)
Gũtirĩ thayũ haha rĩu
(There is no peace here now)
Igũrũ rĩrohotora, thĩ ĩrĩrĩrĩma
(Sky will darken, earth will shake)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Storm! Storm! Danger approaches / This person has no genuine love / He wants to capture my gift / Storm! God, see! / There is no peace here now / Sky will darken, earth will tremble
MUSICAL NOTES:
Dramatic, frightening, building intensity. Minor key, increasing tempo. Should sound like an approaching storm. Percussion-heavy if possible. Dissonant intervals.
9. HOME LOVE SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Wendo wa Mũciĩ)
Type: Love Song / Affirmation
Placement: In the house when Wanjiru questions if she’s being selfish
Purpose: Most beautiful moment; Munyaka expresses pure love for home and mother
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Maitũ, wee nĩwe ũtumaga njikarĩre
(Mother, you are what makes me whole)
Mũciĩ ũyũ nĩ kũrĩa ngoro yakwa ĩtuuraga
(This home is where my heart lives)
Ndirĩ mũndũ mũthĩĩni tondũ ndĩ na wee
(I am not poor because I have you)
Ũtonga wakwa nĩ wendo witũ
(My wealth is our love)
Mĩgũnda ĩno, mĩtĩ ĩno, rũũĩ rũrũ
(These farms, these trees, this river)
Nĩkuo ũthamaki wakwa ũrĩ
(This is where my kingdom is)
Ndikũreka, maitũ, ndahooya kũreka
(I won't leave, mother, I don't wish to leave)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Mother, you are what makes me complete / This home is where my heart dwells / I am not poor because I have you / My wealth is our love / These farms, these trees, this river / This is where my kingdom lies / I won’t leave, mother, I don’t wish to leave
MUSICAL NOTES:
The most beautiful, melodic song in the entire screenplay. Should bring tears. Major key, soaring melody. Traditional Kikuyu melodic structure but emotionally universal. 4/4 time, builds to powerful climax.
10. VILLAGE DECLARATION (Mwĩtũũro wa Mũciĩ)
Type: Anthem / Public Statement
Placement: At village meeting, Munyaka’s powerful moment
Purpose: Declares her choice to entire community; brings unity
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Inyuothe nĩmũiguĩte mũgambo wakwa
(All of you have heard my voice)
Ngai nĩaheire kĩheo gĩkĩ gĩa gwĩthĩĩo
(God gave me this gift freely)
Na niĩ ngĩcigayagĩra o ro ũguo
(And I share it the same way)
Mũgambo wakwa ndũringĩtwo
(My voice cannot be bought)
Nĩ wa haha, wa mũciĩ ũyũ
(It belongs here, to this home)
Tondũ mũtũũra ũyũ nĩ wagĩire ngoro yakwa
(Because this village has shaped my heart)
Ithuĩ tũrĩ ũmwe tondũ wa wendo
(We are one because of love)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
All of you have heard my voice / God gave me this gift freely / And I share it freely the same / My voice cannot be bought / It belongs here, to this home / Because this village shaped my heart / We are one because of love
MUSICAL NOTES:
Grand, anthemic, unifying. Should sound like a national anthem for the village. Major key, strong rhythm. Call-and-response structure if possible. 4/4 march time. Builds to triumphant finish.
11. PLAYFUL TEASING SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Gũcuukagĩra)
Type: Playful / Romantic
Placement: When Munyaka teases Kamau and Wanjiru
Purpose: Light moment; shows Munyaka’s playful side; hints at romance
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Hehe! Maitũ nĩona njera!
(Hehe! Mother I see you smiling!)
Na Baba Kamau ona ũrona!
(And Father Kamau you're smiling too!)
Kũrĩ ũndũ mũkũhitha
(There's something you're hiding)
No niĩ nĩnjũĩ! Nĩnjũĩ!
(But I know! I know!)
Wendo nĩ mwega, wendo nĩ kĩrĩra
(Love is good, love is beautiful)
Mũtigathiĩ mũkĩhitha!
(Don't keep hiding it!)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Hehe! Mother I see you smiling! / And Father Kamau you’re smiling too! / There’s something you’re hiding / But I know! I know! / Love is good, love is beautiful / Don’t keep hiding it!
MUSICAL NOTES:
Light, bouncy, mischievous. Fast tempo, major key. Should sound like children’s teasing song but affectionate. 2/4 time, skippy rhythm.
12. MORNING BLESSING (Kĩrathimo kĩa Rũciinĩ)
Type: Celebration / Gathering
Placement: Final celebration scene when everyone gathers
Purpose: Shows community unity; infectious joy; brings everyone together
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Mũthenya ũyũ nĩ mwega!
(This day is good!)
Ithuĩ tũrĩ hamwe, tũrĩ na ngai
(We are together, we are with God)
Inyuĩ mũraraino, niĩ ndaraino
(You are blessed, I am blessed)
Mũtũũra witũ nĩ ũrĩ na thayũ
(Our village has peace)
Ũmũthĩ, rũciũ, na kũrĩa gũgooca
(Today, tomorrow, and forever)
Tũgatũũra tũkĩina na gũcuuka
(We will continue to dance and celebrate)
Tondũ Ngai nĩ mwega!
(Because God is good!)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
This day is good! / We are together, we are with God / You are blessed, I am blessed / Our village has peace / Today, tomorrow, and always / We will continue to dance and celebrate / Because God is good!
MUSICAL NOTES:
Joyful, communal, meant for group singing. Traditional celebration song structure. Major key, infectious rhythm. Should make people want to dance. 4/4 time, energetic and building.
13. SUNSET RIVER SONG (Rwĩmbo rwa Gũthũa)
Type: Meditation / Closing
Placement: Final scene, Munyaka alone at river
Purpose: Brings story full circle; contemplative ending; shows peace
KIKUYU LYRICS:
Riũa rĩrathũa, mũthenya ũrathira
(Sun is setting, day is ending)
No ngoro yakwa ĩrĩ na thayũ
(But my heart is at peace)
Kĩrĩa ndĩ nakĩo nĩ kĩagĩrĩire
(What I have is enough)
Rũũĩ rũrũ, ũthamaki wa igũrũ
(This river, the kingdom of heaven)
Nĩkuo thĩ yakwa ĩrĩ
(This is where my world is)
Ngũcuuka o nginya riũa rĩroka rĩngĩ
(I will sing until the sun rises again)
Tondũ ũyũ nĩ mũgambo wakwa
(Because this is my voice)
Wa kũheana wega, hĩndĩ ciothe
(To give goodness, always)ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
Sun is setting, day is ending / But my heart is at peace / What I have is enough / This river, heaven’s kingdom / This is where my world is / I will sing until sun rises again / Because this is my voice / To give goodness, always
MUSICAL NOTES:
Contemplative, peaceful, circular melody that echoes the opening river song. Should feel like coming home. Minor to major resolution. 3/4 time, gentle and flowing. Ends with sustained note as camera pulls away.
PRODUCTION NOTES
Recording Recommendations:
- Use authentic Kikuyu singer(s) for Munyaka’s voice, even if actress lip-syncs
- Traditional instruments: nyatiti (lyre), kayamba (shaker), drums
- Natural acoustics: Record some songs actually at riverside for authentic ambiance
- Layering: Some songs should build from solo to chorus as villagers join
Musical Themes:
- River/Water motif: Opens and closes the film; represents flow of life
- Mother-daughter theme: Appears in lullaby and home love song
- Warning motif: Dark, minor key; appears when danger threatens
- Community theme: Celebration songs that bring people together
Performance Direction:
- Munyaka should sing each emotion authentically – not “perform” but “express”
- Some songs should start unconsciously, as if she can’t help but sing
- Physical movement should accompany certain songs (dancing, swaying)
- Eyes and face should communicate what words would if she could speak
Cultural Authenticity:
- Consult with Kikuyu elders on traditional song structures
- Ensure lyrics respect Kikuyu spiritual and cultural values
- Traditional call-and-response patterns in community songs
- Appropriate use of “Ngai” (God) reflects Kikuyu Christian-traditional blend
SONG PLACEMENT QUICK REFERENCE
| Scene | Song Title | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening (River, Dawn) | Morning River Song | 1:30 | Establish character |
| Kamau’s Farm | Cattle Calming Song | 0:45 | Show power over animals |
| Village Market | Comfort Hymn | 1:15 | Bring miracle |
| Evening Warning | Nervous Humming | 0:30 | Create tension |
| Night with Mother | Grandmother’s Lullaby | 2:00 | Emotional depth |
| River with Njoki | Declaration of Self | 1:00 | State identity |
| River with Njoki | Blessing for Friend | 1:00 | Show love |
| Homestead Confrontation | Warning Storm Song | 1:00 | Manifest danger |
| House, Mother Alone | Home Love Song | 2:30 | Emotional climax |
| Village Meeting | Village Declaration | 1:30 | Public statement |
| Evening at Home | Playful Teasing Song | 0:45 | Light moment |
| Final Celebration | Morning Blessing | 1:30 | Community joy |
| Closing (River, Sunset) | Sunset River Song | 2:00 | Resolution |
Total Music Runtime: Approximately 17-18 minutes of singing across 30-minute film
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