Shungu: The Resilience of a People (2009) [N/A]
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Written by:
Karen Marks Mafundikwa
Directed by:
Saki Mafundikwa
Release Date:
November 1, 2009
Original Title:
Shungu: The Resilience of a People
Genres:
Documentary
Production Companies:
Gandanga Media
Production Countries:
Zimbabwe
Ratings / Certifications:
N/A
Runtime: 54
Offers a glimpse of the challenges faced by a cross section of Zimbabweans at the height of political turmoil and economic meltdown. It documents the lives of a 30-something metalsmith - and opposition supporter - running his small business while facing political violence; a middle-aged widow - and staunch government supporter - trying to run a farm she took over from a white owner; a doctor working amid healthcare collapse while trying to maintain her middle-class lifestyle; and a young girl who endures continuous pain from an advanced case of Kaposi's Sarcoma without any basic medical treatment.
Shungu is a compelling narrative of the strategies ordinary people use to survive in Zimbabwe today. The filmmaker takes us on a personal journey offering a rare, intimate insight as the country experiences political turmoil, economic meltdown and health care collapse. We are drawn into the lives of a 30-something metal-smith and opposition supporter, a staunch government supporter trying to run a farm she took over from a white farmer and a doctor working amid health care collapse. Interwoven throughout is the tumultuous political power struggle and eventual reconciliation between President Robert Mugabe, and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai. The film gives voice to the hopes and challenges of ordinary people.
