Theresa Takafuma
A Masvingo film production initiative, Afrinac Films is working on an environmental awareness film called Purpose in Pain which will be ready for premiere in March 2023.
The film focuses on the causes and effects of pollution and the positive impact of engaging in waste management starting at household level.
The film director Ngoni Chinovava said the film is a composition of acting, music and poetry, with the inspiration coming from his love for a clean and safe environment for all.
“As a filmmaker I decided to take my part in creating awareness through film. I am just taking my part in making the world a better place.
“To the Masvingo community, all I can say is correcting and protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility. Let us safeguard the future of our environment,” Chinovava said.
The project started in September 2022, where the film crew did the script research and development, after which the preproduction started in November going into December 2022.
Filming then started on December 10 2022 through January 3 2023 when the crew took a break and will resume on February 4. The film is being shot in Masvingo, but featuring award winning cast from Poor Cousins as well as some local actors.
“The cast is on point as we engaged Khulekani Ndlovu who also starred on Poor Cousins and is also the main character on the drug abuse film which features Ammara Brown called Shingai.
“It also features Masvingo acting veterans Michael Banda, Denise Rusoso (also known as Maya), Tawanda Muzvanya and Calvin Severa,” Chinovava said.
Chinovava said on the film’s completion, people should expect a Zimbabwean story that will have a place on international film platforms.
At a time the world is grappling with climate change effects, calls for every sector to contribute in raising awareness on the issue have increased, with young people now playing their part through arts.