Filmmaker Pesalema Bomolemo, widely known as Psalms, has officially entered Botswana’s growing film industry with the premiere of his debut short film With U, screened last Friday evening at Alliance Française in Gaborone. The event marked an important milestone for the young filmmaker as he introduced his storytelling style to a live audience for the first time. The screening attracted more than 80 attendees, reflecting strong interest in emerging local cinema and independent creative voices. The premiere also positioned Psalms as one of the new filmmakers contributing to the expansion of Botswana’s creative industry. The evening carried a strong sense of artistic discovery as audiences engaged with a raw and intimate narrative.
With U is an emotionally driven short film that focuses on a young couple dealing with the breakdown of their relationship. The story unfolds through tense dialogue and restrained performances that reflect the emotional weight carried by both characters. Instead of relying on dramatic action or external conflict, the film focuses on communication breakdown, emotional distance, and personal accountability within relationships. The narrative highlights how both individuals perceive themselves as victims while contributing to the deterioration of their bond. This layered approach allows the film to explore emotional complexity in a way that feels grounded and relatable to everyday experiences.
The film uses simplicity as a storytelling strength, allowing silence, expressions, and subtle exchanges to carry much of the emotional impact. This approach reflects a growing trend in independent African cinema where filmmakers focus on realism and character-driven storytelling rather than spectacle. Psalms uses this method to draw viewers into the emotional world of the couple, encouraging reflection on how misunderstandings build over time. The film also examines themes of resentment and unresolved tension, showing how unspoken feelings can shape the direction of a relationship. Through this, With U positions itself as a thoughtful exploration of human connection and emotional vulnerability.
The screening at Alliance Française created an intimate atmosphere that suited the tone of the film. Audience members were able to engage closely with the story and respond to its emotional intensity in a shared space. The venue has become an important cultural hub in Gaborone, supporting film screenings, artistic showcases, and creative dialogue. Hosting With U at this location added to the significance of the premiere, giving the filmmaker a platform within an established artistic environment. The turnout of over 80 people also demonstrated growing public interest in locally produced films and independent storytelling in Botswana.
The Alliance Française de Gaborone team expressed appreciation for hosting the screening and supporting the filmmaker’s debut work. They highlighted the importance of providing space for emerging creatives to showcase their projects and connect with audiences. The evening did not end with With U alone, as attendees also viewed Revoir Paris, a film centred on the experience of a survivor of the November 13th attacks. This added another emotional layer to the programme and extended the night’s focus on human resilience and personal struggle. The combination of films created a reflective atmosphere that encouraged deeper engagement with storytelling as a tool for understanding lived experiences.
Looking ahead, Alliance Française announced its upcoming screening of Lerato – Our Stories, an advocacy short film created by Feminist Alliance Botswana and Women in Film Guild Botswana, supported by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung. The film is based on real testimonies from women in Botswana and addresses various forms of gender-based violence, including digital abuse and street harassment. This continued programming highlights the venue’s commitment to showcasing socially relevant films that reflect real community issues. It also reinforces the role of film as a platform for awareness, education, and dialogue. The upcoming screening is expected to continue the momentum created by events like the premiere of With U.
The debut of With U represents an important step for Pesalema Bomolemo in establishing his voice within Botswana’s film landscape. His focus on emotional realism and character-driven storytelling places him within a new generation of filmmakers exploring personal and relatable narratives. The positive reception of the screening suggests growing support for independent film projects in the country. As Botswana’s creative industry continues to develop, films like With U contribute to a broader cultural movement that values storytelling rooted in everyday human experiences. The premiere signals the beginning of what could be a promising journey for Psalms as he continues to build his presence in the film sector.
