Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique Collaborate in Historic Film Project
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Loading... - Saumu Tarus
- 10 May 2023
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Stephen Mutsago, a Zimbabwean film producer, has joined forces with filmmakers from Zambia and Mozambique to create a groundbreaking movie called "Comrade," centered around the liberation struggle. Mutsago, who is a professional police officer, expressed the benefits of working with fellow filmmakers Abel Silungwe from Zambia and Sergio Barta from Mozambique. He developed the storyline, while Joseph Dzatsata penned the screenplay.
The film is scheduled to premiere at the end of the upcoming month at the Skyview Conference Centre in Mutare. Mutsago emphasized the objective of fostering unity among Africans, both creatively and technically, by collaborating as a team. The decision to involve Zambia and Mozambique was based on the longstanding bilateral relations dating back to the colonial era when Zimbabwe trained its cadres in these neighboring countries.
Mutsago acknowledged the struggles faced by the Zimbabwean film industry in terms of insufficient support and the absence of sound film policies, while their neighboring countries were flourishing. Drawing a parallel to the war times, he emphasized the necessity of mutual assistance, describing the film as a manifestation of the liberation struggle.
He firmly believed that working with Zambia and Mozambique would elevate the local industry's creative and technical standards. Due to outdated filming equipment in Zimbabwe, they even utilized gear from Zambia. The primary focus of the film "Comrade" is to highlight the significance of the liberation war veterans who possess the capacity to contribute to the development and protection of our societies. Their ideas and expertise remain crucial in both political and socioeconomic activities.
Mutsago expressed, "Comrade" pays tribute to these heroes while also commemorating those who have fallen. To establish a connection with neighboring Zambia, they cast Penelope Chindolo, an actress from Zambia, in the role of Gamu, allowing her to speak Tonga and Nyanja.
He further explained, "Our collaboration thrived with the crew. We had two directors, Abel Silungwe and myself, as well as two Directors of Photography, Sergio Bata from Mozambique and Sam Johannes from Zambia. Albert Braun Charichafa, an experienced local filmmaker and producer, served as the head producer, accompanied by his team of producers, including Choolwe Kayumbilwa from Zambia and Enipher Murewa from Zimbabwe. The production management was led by Carol Dzimwasha from Zimbabwe, with Tiffany Kutsirai as her deputy. Adjant Handreck from Zimbabwe Eastlife Entertainment Studios served as the sound engineer."
The story revolves around Comrade, a liberation war veteran who employs guerrilla warfare tactics to combat the rampant cattle rustling in the local village. The society places their hopes in him due to his extensive knowledge of defense and security tactics gained during his service in the national army.
Mutsago revealed that the film did not receive any funding, with 50 percent of the budget being contributed by himself as the executive producer and the remaining 50 percent being a collaborative effort by the producers, each contributing their share. The foreign filmmakers also played a part in ensuring the budget was met.
The entire production, including pre-production and shooting, took approximately one month, and they are currently in the post-production phase. The filming locations included Honde Valley, Kwesha Village, and Mutarazi Forest.
Mutsago's previous works include producing the film "Vicious Circle" in 2020 and directing "Smoking Gun Season 1" for ZBC TV in 2022. He has also directed five short films, with his most recent project being the feature film titled "Lobengula."
Mutsago appealed to the government for support, emphasizing their strong patriotism and commitment to showcasing the African narrative, promoting their country, and contributing to economic growth through the film industry. He expressed his belief that if given the opportunity and platform, the Zimbabwean film industry could significantly contribute to the country's economic development.
In conclusion, "Comrade" represents a groundbreaking collaboration between Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique, bringing together talented filmmakers to tell a story of the liberation struggle. Stephen Mutsago, along with Abel Silungwe and Sergio Barta, worked as a team to create a film that aims to foster unity among Africans and honor the sacrifices of the liberation war veterans. With the premiere approaching, the team is excited to share their creation and hopes for support from the government and the wider community.
