Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
COMEDIENNE Tarisai “Madam Boss” Chikocho’s much-hyped movie will go on the big screen tomorrow at Westgate Cinema in Harare.
Titled “Becoming Madam Boss,” the one-hour-30-minute-long film cost over US$65 000 and is expected to attract showbiz gurus, actors and film directors.
What has raised the appeal of the premiere is that it comes at a time when the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in conjunction with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, is delivering results through its five-year Film Strategy blueprint.
The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, which has also set aside US$10 million for content creators, is among the partners at the launch. In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Fanuel Masungure who manages Madam Boss’ affairs said they were ready for the red-carpet premiere.
“It’s going down on Saturday at Westgate Cinema, where the premiere of “Becoming Madam Boss’ is taking place,” said Masungure.”
“It took us about three years working on this movie, which talks about the life of Madam Boss from humble beginnings in Madziva. “Of course, we may not capture it exactly, as Becoming Madam Boss is about her upbringing and the obstacles she faced.”
“The situation applies to many people who faced similar circumstances as they grew up.” Written and directed by Sydney Tavavaishe, Masungure firmly believes that the move is a game-changer that motivates people to work hard.
“We worked with Sydney Tirivaishe, who did most of the production work, and it was a marvel working with him.
“He vividly captured the life of Madam Boss, who was a dedicated woman from childhood until she made it to the top, as is the case now.
“Without pre-empting the movie, Becoming Madam Boss is more than just a movie —it’s an experience that will certainly capture the hearts of many.” Masungure also revealed that Madam Boss is a brave woman who gave her all in the film. “We spent days camping in areas like Seke and the surrounding communities shooting the movie. “As you know, when shooting a movie or film, sometimes people become emotional, exchange tantrums, or get upset — but it’s all part of the set, and we had a memorable experience while shooting the movie.”
Masungure stated that film enthusiasts will find the event enjoyable, especially with the premiere drawing attention.
“The concert came out well, and we are excited for the premiere starting at 6pm.
“To ensure we live up to our red-carpet theme, guests are expected to start trickling in around 4:30pm, which is most appropriate for most of our guests.”
After the Harare premiere, Masungure said the movie will be screened in other cities before the team embarks on its world tour.
“On Saturday, we will host its premiere before taking it to the Bulawayo Theatre, Masvingo, Joburg, and the United Kingdom.
“There are also plans to take it to other overseas countries if all goes according to plan.”
Masungure said the production was also made possible through their partnership with various stakeholders. “There are several partners who made it possible, and one of them is the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), which assisted us greatly in the shooting of the movie.
“As you know, they have also been working with local content creators, and we are glad to be part of this movement, which has brought relief to most of us in the film industry.”
Madam Boss has been in the limelight for years, doing skits before transitioning to movies. While “Becoming Madam Boss” is her first attempt at feature films, expectations are high. With all the resilience and hard work, Madam Boss is determined to join other global stars in film-making.
Globally, the film and television industry has become a billion-dollar enterprise, known for creating lasting memories and powerful storytelling. Zimbabwe cannot afford to miss out on its share of this lucrative market.
Over the years, there have been complaints that the film and television industry lacked support.
Despite financial hurdles, the sector has continued to produce stars who have made it onto the global scene.
Some of the stars who have made it internationally include Danai Gurira, Tongayi Arnold Chirisa, and Thandie Newton.
