Sierra Leonean filmmaker Idrissa Barry Jalloh has announced a new film called YAYO.
Jalloh is the cinematographer and director of The Bormeh Series, a movie many people see as one of the best in Sierra Leone. He says his new film will tell a deeper and more powerful story.
YAYO is based on a true story. Jalloh describes it as a bold African tragedy that talks about pain, truth and culture. He says it is “not a feel-good story” but one that shows sacrifice and the struggles of women in society.
Story and themes
The film will look at how young African girls are often exploited. It will also touch on music, fashion, sex, drugs, LGBTQ issues and trafficking. Jalloh says the story asks a hard question: “What shall it profit a girl to trend and lose herself?”
Global plans
Although the story is set in Sierra Leone, Jalloh says the film is made for the world. He hopes YAYO will reach big international festivals and even the Oscars.
“Cinema for me is rhythm, colour and memory,” he said. “I tell truth even when truth is tragedy.”
Production
The film is written by Idrissa Barry Jalloh with support from Jeneba Samura. Cinematography will be done by Eng. Sheriff Kabia and Jalloh.
Filming is expected to start in mid-2026, and the movie will be released at world festivals and platforms in 2027.