CHARLENE Mangweni Furusa, host of the 23rd edition of the National Arts Merit Awards (Namas), says her award-winning film, See Me, is a mirror to society.
The film has been nominated under the full-length category for the Nama awards slated for March 1.
“We made See Me as a mirror to society. Begging to ask the question, do you see me? Especially in times of need. It is inspired by true life stories based on research done over about three years by Ursula Uwich. It was produced by the multi-award-winning dance choreographer Sean Mambwere. Cinematography and editing was done by my husband Tafadzwa Furusa,” she told NewsDay Life & Style.
The film has toured 17 countries worldwide, including Belarus, Germany, the UK, the US, Brazil and New Zealand and in Africa — South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe — among others.
Furusa said while See Me had won awards across the border, it was heartwarming to be nominated at home.
“It has so far won two awards at the Rustenburg Film Festival in South Africa for best TV movie and best director in a TV movie. The original music in the film is written and performed by Mwenje Mathole, while the still photography is by Nyasha Zuze. The cast consists of both newcomers and well-known names in the industry like Nyasha David, actress Natasha Dlamini and a new face, who we are excited to see more of on our screens, Chiedza Matabuka. The dances in the film were performed by multi-award winning dancers and choreographers in their own right, totaling a crew of 15.”
Furusa’s film reflects the cultural diversity of Zimbabwe and the unity of the people. See Me portrays real-life situations when one looks up to another person. Furusa’s ability to look around for highly rated talent in music, theatre and technical support services brings a clear picture of her strategic intention to advocate for an accommodating character, empathy and inclusivity while strictly focusing on entertaining the audience.
“See Me is a unique film in the way it incorporates different art forms and also tells a relatable story. It is a collaboration of film, dance, music, spoken word, and photography, all originally produced to make See Me. I am mostly looking forward to seeing the live performances from artists who would normally not share the stage,” the artist said.
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“Nama has a way of bringing people together in a way that celebrates who we are and I love it. No matter how small you think your idea is, start by learning from those who are already doing it and be humble about it. Be mentored and be an active listener. So that when you set out to do your dream, you have guidance. Even if you’re pioneering something, there’s nothing new under the sun and there is always someone to learn from. Be bold and live out your dream in colour.”
Furusa said consistency and quality emphasis in the arts sector were prerequisites to achieving one’s set goals.
“Art is your unique fingerprint, use it well and don’t expect your road to be the same as that walked by others,” she said.
