Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma-Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
OUTSPOKEN comedian Doc Vikela has tried his hand at film by producing a Zimbabwe-inspired movie called InterSEXions.
The drama-cum-comedy dubbed ‘dramedy’, which is set for release sometime this month, focuses on themes that include marriage, secrets, tradition and modernity.
In the film, a couple’s love is tested by inevitable questions, including: How much can a marriage take before it breaks?
Doc Vikela said turning a leaf into film production is something that he has always wanted.
“The film production process marks a new chapter in my career. In the past, Doc Vikela has produced sitcoms for ZTN, ZBC, NRTV and YouTube.
“This is it, and I feel like I have always yearned to have time for film-making, and I think now I have made time. This is my first attempt, and I have to admit, a film is not easy to produce or direct, but you learn in the process,” said Doc Vikela.
He said the inspiration behind InterSEXions was to create a film that is bare.
“I wanted something that is bare, a film that reflects on the new social fabric layer, that might be here to stay. The name InterSexions was an instant fit, the moment it popped into my head. The objective is to mirror society and to invoke reflections on the image in the mirror.
“The cast intersect in a very obvious way, but then relations of attraction ensure they intersex. Percy Magaya plays Tendai, a tragically ironic housewife who moves from a state of desperation and despair to a state of pure, unadulterated bliss. Co-starring is her husband Tafadzwa, played by the hugely talented Simba Manzungu; who is forced to confront the fact that his avoidance has created a catastrophe he cannot manage or escape,” said Doc Vikela.
The film features a myriad of young, talented cast members that include Kudzai K Madangwa (Tawanda), Bongai Mtetwa (Kelsy), Elroy T Musiiwa (Tino), Felistas Tizola (Mhamha), Loveness Chipo Madzima (Doctor), Kate Muchena (Pharmacy Assistant), Simbarashe Musena (Officer), Pardon Nyamukondiwa (aSekuru), Tsungirirai Chenjerayi (Sharnell).
“InterSEXions is a gripping dramedy set in modern Harare, Zimbabwe, that dissects the fragile bonds of marriage, the weight of secrets, and the collision between tradition and modernity.
“The story revolves around Tafadzwa and Tendai, a couple whose once-passionate relationship has eroded under the pressure of childlessness,” said Doc Vikela, who wrote, edited, and directed the production.
Other technical members are Sir Leo Ericks (director of photography), Praise Muchetwa (production design), Alexa Muparutsa (production manager), Shymar Phiri (production assistant), Sikhanyiso A Mlambo (assistant director), Lucky Kawero (editor), Ian Jokonya (sound recordist), Tadiwa Rugowo (gaffer), Welensky Kaseke (music composer), Lexi Mutsetsa and Sukholuhle Mahlangu (interns). Producers are namely Wencelacy Katuka, Sue Ellen Chimhini, Nyasha Mercy Kazuru, Godfrey Miles Chivese, and Liz Dziva, while Nelson served as the driver.
The film was shot in Harare by Sir Leo Ericks. It will be premièring this month on the Simuka TV Youtube channel.
