Zambia braces for the highly-anticipated premiere of “Mwizukanji,” a feature film promising a captivating story of love, betrayal, and redemption.
The film, directed by filmmaker Cosmas Ng’andwe, known for his role as Logic in loved Zambian drama series (Mpali), premieres on June 29, 2024, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.
Mwizukanji, played by a yet-to-be-revealed actress, is at the center of the drama.
Speculations are already buzzing online that the film will be about the past relationship of Prudence Nankamba fondly called Mwizukanji and music sensation Elton Mulenga aka Yo Maps.
Despite not yet being on the screens, the much anticipated Mwizukanji feature film has made it on the list of social media headlines for the past few weeks with some people condemning the producer for telling a one sided story.
Well, the negativity has been drawn from the movie marketing strategy. Attracting socialites such as United Kingdom based Zambian socialite, Lilian Mutambo and Simon Mwewa lane.
Last week, Ng’andwe posted on his Facebook page saying “you know that Mwizukanji was cheated on right,” a post he later deleted but was already screen shot by some netizens including Simon Mwewa lane who condemned the marketing strategy, calling the entire movie ‘unfair’ because a story is one sided.
The contemptuous views come in because the Figure, Mwizukanji is someone who has risen to popularity after a sour break up with Zambia’s music sensation Yo maps and surprisingly, the lady turned her lemons into lemonade and is now one of Zambia’s recognised influencers.
But unlike everyone, the former Mpali star thought the movie was worth the ink to spill and deserved the screens.
And to settle the social media debate, Ng’andwe yesterday held a press briefing were he said “The hope to change the industry lies in the hands of those willing to fight, and change the narrative.”
He knew his shoulders carried the weight of the community’s expectations.
His words resonated with a call to arms for artists and filmmakers alike, urging them to tell stories without fear and be able to embrace the power of visual storytelling.
Ng’andwe, implored prospective viewers of the film to join him on a journey of discovery as he unveils the film.
As whispers of speculation shine around the decision to spotlight Mwizukanji’s side of the story, Ng’andwe said he remained steadfast in his commitment to honoring her journey with authenticity and respect.
The film is expected to make history by uniting 2,500 people under one roof for a cinematic experience unlike any other.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, April 13, 2024
