Atuhaire Sharon to premiere Subliminal on 11 October, a thriller on the pain people hide
The Uganda Film Festival Awards-nominated short film asks audiences to look closer at those who seem fine
Ugandan actress, writer and filmmaker Atuhaire Sharon will premiere her psychological crime thriller Subliminal on Sunday, 11 October 2026, at Rivonia Suites at 2:00 p.m. The film explores what people endure silently and how easily those around them can miss it.
Subliminal, also titled Dark Encounter, was written and produced by Sharon and was nominated in the Short Film category at the 2026 Uganda Film Festival Awards. The cast includes Sharon, Papa Daniel Mushikoma, Monica Birwinyo, Debie Kagisha and Brian Silver.
The film follows Lisa, a young professional celebrating a long-awaited promotion with her closest friends at a busy nightclub. When she is separated from the group, a charming stranger gains her trust and leads her away from safety. The story then turns to the aftermath, as Lisa withdraws from her fiancé and friends and carries the weight of what happened alone.
"I made Subliminal because I wanted to tell a story that reflects the reality of what many people go through silently," Sharon said.
She said the film was shaped by lived realities. "The film was inspired by real-life experiences and my desire to use storytelling to create awareness, encourage conversations, and remind people that what we see on the outside may not always reflect what someone is experiencing inside."
Sharon hopes the film leaves audiences better equipped to support others. "I hope that after watching Subliminal, the audience will leave with a greater understanding of mental health and the importance of paying attention to the people around us," she said.
She added that she wants viewers to feel free to speak up, ask for help and offer support without judgement, and to be more compassionate, because a person who looks completely fine may be fighting a battle that others cannot see.
"For me, this premiere is not just about showing a film. It is about starting a conversation, creating awareness, and reminding people that their stories matter and that they don't have to suffer in silence," Sharon said.
Tickets are available in two categories: Gold at UGX 50,000 and Ordinary at UGX 30,000. Payment can be made through mobile money on 5463067, and guests can RSVP on 0778 400 933.
Sharon began her professional acting career in 2015 with the television series The Hostel, and her credits include Wande, Foot Wine, When You Become Me, Bunjako, Jinxed, The Forbidden and Damalie. She has earned nominations at the Uganda Film Festival and the Bayelsa International Film Festival, and has performed in theatre productions including Echoes of Lawino, in which she played Lawino. With a background in Social Development, she is drawn to stories that reflect real human experiences.
Atuhaire Sharon is a Ugandan actress, filmmaker, writer and performing artist whose work spans film, television and theatre. She is committed to telling authentic stories that entertain and spark reflection on the realities of human life.
