Africa Rising International Film Festival ends on a high note
The Africa Rising International Film Festival ended on a high note on Saturday evening when they screened Queen and Slim.
“You cannot be what you cannot see.” Lala Tuku, founder of Africa Rising International Film Festival.
The Africa Rising International Film Festival ended on a high note on Saturday evening when they screened Queen and Slim. The American drama movie, which has been described as a modern Bonnie and Clyde story, stars Daniel Kaluuya (as Slim) and rising star Jodie Turner-Smith (as Queen). The film is directed by Melina Matsoukas and written by Lena Waithe.
Thami Dish, who was the MC for the night, left in tears after the movie and, if the reaction from the rest of the crowd is anything to go by, then Queen and Slim is one movie worth watching when it hits our screens next year.
According to Lala Tuku, the founder of the festival, the aim of the event is to showcase local stories and talent that the continent has to offer.
“For us, most importantly, it’s about promoting the African narrative and throughout the programme of the festival it is been about elevating and telling African stories.”
Another film which also premiered at the festival was Birth of a Witch. Produced by Edward Haapala and Mo, from Cape Town, the movie is about a witch who lives in the rural Eastern Cape. It follows Amanda, a quiet, withdrawn girl, isolated from many of her peers except for one girl, a friend who reintroduces her to dark self-hatred as unwanted and suppressed desires are provoked once again. The narrative focuses on the theme of repression and this notion is linked to the subject matter of sexual orientation and inner conflict.
Produced by Edward Haapala and Mo, from Cape Town, the movie is about a witch who lives in rural Eastern Cape
Edward and Mo have produced numerous films around the continent and continue share African stories through their content.
The festival got off to a great start on Wednesday evening, November 27, with Busiswa Gqulu’s documentary, Unbreakable Story.
Other notable African films/documentaries that were screened during the festival included:
- Zulu Love Letter. The film about Thandeka, a young journalist who lives in fear of Johannesburg’s past. She’s so troubled that she can’t work and her relationship with Mangi, her 13-year-old deaf daughter, goes from bad to worse. The film stars veteran actress Pamela Nomvete.
- Mama Africa – A film by MIKA KAURISMÄKI. A documentary about the humanitarian and musical icon Miriam Makeba.
