Anibok Studios and Organized Khaoz announce the premiere of KING OF TEMA on November 14, 2025. Described as “A Crime Drama from Ghana’s Harbor City” the film is poised to place the city of Tema at the center of the global conversation around Ghanaian cinema.
KING OF TEMA tells the story of Paa Kwesi (played by David “Big Tim” Osabutey), a man facing overwhelming pressure. With his sick mother in the hospital and crippling gambling debt, Paa Kwesi is forced to risk everything by working for the notorious criminal overlord of Tema, Alhaji (portrayed by legendary Ghanaian actor Fred Amugi). The film explores themes of family, identity, and the difficult choices made when everything is on the line.
Director and Producer Kobina de Graft-Johnson, notes that the film is a deeply personal project, stating that Tema is “more than a backdrop, it’s my home”. His intention was to capture the “grit, resilience, and everyday struggles” of the people of Tema, and to prove that stories born in Ghana can “resonate globally”.
The film boasts a strong cast, blending Ghanaian legends with rising stars:
- David “Big Tim” Osabutey stars in his screen debut as the lead, Paa Kwesi.
- Fred Amugi portrays Tema’s feared crime overlord, Alhaji.
- Kingsley Yamoah plays a powerful figure in the underworld, King.
- Kweku Elliott (known for If Tomorrow Never Comes, Sin City) as Buga, a ruthless yet strategic boss.
- The cast also includes Melvin Dain as Charles, Karl Sackeyfio as Moses, Naya Pratt as Coco, Brian Angels as Kwesi Black, and Nana Sam as Doctor Akuffo.
The film’s distinct sonic identity is rooted in Tema, a blend of “street grit, coastal rhythm, and global ambition”. The soundtrack taps into the underground sound of Ghana’s hip-hop scene, featuring the raw energy of a new generation of artists.
The music features notable contributions from:
- White Gold, a proud native of Tema whose vocals have powered hooks on Billboard #1 albums for rap icon Eminem, including Music to Be Murdered By and The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce).
- Award-Winning Ghanaian-Canadian filmmaker and composer Pascal Aka, who not only scored the film but also composed the soundtrack, blending cinematic soundscapes with Ghanaian rhythms.
KING OF TEMA was shot on Blackmagic Cinema Cameras to achieve “world-class cinematic visuals with a raw grounded aesthetic that mirrors the film’s setting”. This project is intended to launch a larger cinematic universe, connecting a world of characters and power struggles in Tema.
The film’s Red Carpet Premiere is scheduled for November 14th, 2025 at the following locations:
- Silverbird Cinemas (Accra)
- Golden Eagle Cinemas (Kumasi)
- Toppiard Event Center (Cape Coast) on November 15th
KING OF TEMA is an independently produced film powered by community and purpose. Supporters can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to help fund premiere activations in Ghana & NYC, marketing, and cast and crew bonuses.
Social Media: Follow the movement on all platforms with the handle @kingoft3ma.
Kobina de Graft-Johnson
kjohnson@anibokstudios.com
+1 (347) 235-5639 34
