About The Future Called

How I Wrote The Future Called

This story began as a short film script. At its core was a simple but frustrating question: Who should pay on a first date?

It's a question that seems small, but carries weight — pride, expectation, gender roles, and unspoken rules. I've seen men grow resentful when expected to pay for everything, especially when interest fades halfway through the date. There's an assumption that because a man initiates, he must carry the cost.

But I see it differently.

To me, the responsibility belongs to the one who invites — the one who says, "Let's go out." That invitation carries intention, and intention carries responsibility, regardless of gender.

From that idea, the story expanded.

Oteng is 26, working, and carrying the emotional scars of a past relationship where he felt used. Thato is 24, a teacher trying to trust again after betrayal. Their first date should be simple — but it isn't.

Then comes the twist: a phone call from the future.

Not to explain everything — but to test everything.

Because this isn't a story about time travel.
It's a story about choice.

Why I Wrote This

I wrote The Future Called because I'm tired of stories that avoid uncomfortable truths.

Modern relationships — especially in Botswana — are filled with silent expectations about money, trust, and roles. These expectations are rarely discussed openly, yet they shape everything.

This story asks:

• What happens when a man tests a woman instead of trusting her?
• What does a small moment — like paying for food — reveal about deeper values?
• And if you were warned about your own mistakes… would you actually change?

At its heart, this is a story about self-sabotage.

Final Note

The Future Called isn't here to give answers.

It's here to hold a mirror up.

To you.
To me.
To the choices we make — even when we think no one is watching.