By Olga G. Dzingo
See Me Movie Trailer (YouTube)
The Zimbabwean film industry has grown by leaps and bounds since the early days of classics like Neria (1992), More Time (1993), Everyone’s Child (1996), Flame (1996), Yellow Card (2000), Cook off (2017). Often referred to as 'Zollywood,' modeled after its prolific Nigerian counterpart Nollywood, Zimbabwe's cinematic landscape has seen a surge in films produced by new and innovative directors. Among these locally produced films is See Me (2023), a heartfelt tribute to the real-life struggles of HIV-positive young people in Zimbabwe during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Directed by Charlene Mangwena-Furusa, See Me is a collaborative effort by five friends who masterfully intertwine various artistic forms—poetry, music, photography, and dance—to convey the profound challenges faced by these individuals. The film immerses viewers in the harrowing experiences of stigma, discrimination, mental health issues, and gender-based violence, delivering a powerful and moving narrative. We spent time with one of the actors, Chiedza Matabuka.
Central to this poignant story is Chiedza Matabuka, who portrays Saru. Her journey to this role is as compelling as the story she helps bring to life on screen. Chiedza's passion for acting was ignited during her high school years, where she discovered an unyielding love for the profession. Despite setbacks, she remained dedicated and worked hard, efforts that have propelled her into the limelight.
Professional acting for Chiedza began in earnest after high school. Initially, her efforts in her home town of Gweru did not yield the desired results but her family move to Harare during provided a fresh start. There she took a leap of faith and reached out to the acclaimed Zimbabwean actoress and film director , Charlene Mangwena-Furusa. This bold move marked a turning point in her career.
"Coming to Harare changed everything, and sometimes I think it was God’s plan," Chiedza reflects. Despite initial self-doubt, she submitted an audition video to film director Charlene, believing in her calling to the performing arts. Weeks of anticipation followed, filled with uncertainty and moments of doubt. Just when Chiedza was on the verge of giving up, a phone call from Charlene changed everything. Impressed by Chiedza's potential, Charlene offered her a role in the film "See Me," bypassing the traditional audition process.
"After a while Charlene got in touch and, like a dream, she said, ‘Well I have a movie I want you to act in, can you act on this date?’ Just like that I made my first movie debut with no auditions for the first time on screen alongside the biggest names in Zimbabwe’s film industry," Chiedza recounts.
"See Me" premiered in November 2023, marking Chiedza's debut in the film industry. Her involvement in the film project, alongside renowned actors like Nyasha David, Natasha Dhlamini, Mwenje Matole, and Charlene Furusa, solidified her position as a rising star.
When asked about her journey, Chiedza humbly describes herself as a simple girl with an immense love for acting who dared to pursue her dreams. To aspiring artists, she offers valuable advice: work diligently, pray hard, and take risks. Surrounding oneself with a supportive network of like-minded individuals who share the same passion is also essential for achieving one's dreams.
To watch the film click here
Cast
Chiedza Matabuka – Sarudzai
Natasha Dlamini – Tholakele
Nyasha David – BK
Charlene Furusa – Jane’s mother
Teddy Mangawa – Jane’s father
Clive Jonga – Jimbo
Quentine Nyoni – Jimbo’s friend 1
Panashe Mango – Jimbo’s friend 2
Mwenje Mathole – Mukoma
Kundai Mabviko – Jane
Tawanda “DogOne” – Tapiwa
Nyasha Zuze – Tholakele’s father
Mitchell Kembo – Tholakele’s mother
Munaishe Nyahalic – Gentlemen caller
Written and Directed by
Charlene Mangwena-Furusa
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