Oscar Buzz Uganda Style: Idi Amin Dada

Luwero, Uganda. There was no Oscar buzz in Luwero Province in Uganda today, just the bleating of a few goats and the cries of listless children, mostly malnourished and many of them HIV/AIDS orphans. The Last King of Scotland wasn't even on the radar. There is no radar and virtually no electricity in this stricken province, birthplace of the civil war that ended Idi Amin's reign of terror in Uganda.

Meanwhile back in the capital Kampala, Forest Whitaker's nomination for Best Actor Oscar was front- page news. The film opened here yesterday, and even though tickets are priced far beyond the reach of most Ugandans, it has stirred up mixed reactions and memories from those who have been able to see it. A grandson of the former dictator remarked "He was not daft like he was portrayed. I don't think he was that dense....illiterate yes, but a genius nonetheless." Many others did not agree "The film gives the wrong impression that Idi Amin was humane and sometimes charming. The man was a beast , but Forest Whitaker portrayed him as a jolly and understanding person. Abby Mukiibi (who plays the role of Masanga) would have done a better job".

All performances are sold out, and with Blood Diamond showing at the same multiplex, this is clearly a great weekend for African movies. I tried to get a ticket to see the film, but without luck. A chance encounter with the divinely beautiful Miss Uganda, she of the glorious name Praise, gave me hope. She assured me that somehow, perhaps through the back door, I would eventually be able to see The Last King of Scotland with a Ugandan audience.

Will Forest Whitaker win? Few here seem to care one way or another about the Oscar, but he has won the hearts of all Ugandans who crossed his path during filming "He is so humble", "he is a great man" are the cries I am hearing. Whether that goodness will get him the coveted statue only time will tell.