Faiz Ouma sets the record straight on Netflix’ ‘Volume’ character ‘Castro’ – Exclusive
If you have watched the trailblazing Netflix show ‘Volume’, then the name Faiz Francis Ouma is one you’re too familiar with.
Having played the role of ‘Castro’ in the popular film, Faiz Francis Ouma has had quite a hectic time de-rolling from his on-screen persona, and this is all in awe of his fans.
The young actor, while speaking to Nairobi News confessed to having a difficult time separating his personality from his character on Netflix because many people associate him with ‘Castro’.
“Many people I meet always assume they know me because they know Castro. So when they approach me they have a certain vibe thinking that I am a gangster and all. I don’t blame them, but of course, it’s difficult for me to brush off the character completely,” said Ouma.
He went on to add that in as much as he is constantly linked with his on-screen persona, he is fully aware of who he is so he does not let it get to him.
“I am at my best, and I’m fully aware of myself. I exist at my most authentic level, allowing myself to discern my desires and boundaries. This way I am able to detach from the character and reconnect with my true identity. I acknowledge that this character is not a reflection of me; it’s simply a role I portray,” he said.
The actor also revealed that he had taken a one-year hiatus from active screenplay as he was taking time to reinvent himself.
“I did a lot of theatre to sharpen my skills. So Castro was my first role after I took a break from active screenplay. I think it was like a year or something,” he shared.
‘Volume’, which was released in 2023 boasts 6 episodes each with a 41-minute runtime. The series is the first Kenyan series of its kind on Netflix and the second music drama set in Kenya following Showmax’s original series “Famous.”
The series revolves around Benja, (Brian Kabugi) and his dream to become a musician but his climb toward success proves difficult as he becomes embroiled in dubious dealings which begin to hinder his rise, alongside his best friend Castro (Faiz Francis Ouma).
Before the show’s premiere an expose by Nairobi News revealed allegations made by German film editor Christian Kramer, who claims non-payment and unauthorised use of his work by the series director, Tosh Gitonga.
Kramer asserted that Gitonga failed to fulfil a payment of 4,400 Euros (KES 650,000) for his editing contributions to the series trailer. Furthermore, he accused Gitonga of leveraging his work to secure funding from Netflix without proper consent.
Gitonga, who also directed Kenya’s top film on Netflix this year “Disconnect: The Wedding Planner”, made no mention of the issue as he shared his excitement over the show’s premiere.
Taking to Instagram he wrote, “Started 5 Years Ago… And now it’s done. It’s Out. This show has tested everything about me. Taught Me so Much. I carry on with so many lessons learnt. Please do Watch. And do let us know what you think. Good Or Bad. We are building.”
Kenyan celebrities have shown their support to the series and Gitonga including Kate Actress, rapper King Kaka, musician Bensoul, media personality Ciru Muriuki, Abel Mutua and more.
Alongside Gitonga, the series was created by Njiiri Karago and stars Brian Kabugi, Faiz Francis Ouma, Elvis Mambo, Serah Wanjiru, Stephanie Muchiri, Natasha Sinayobye and Maina Wa Ndungu.