Online Reporter
Laura Maposa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Award-winning filmmaker Joe Njagu is set to release a new feature film, whose title is yet to be announced with Farai Chigudu as the leading man.
Njagu produced the first Zimbabwean film to be acquired by Netflix − COOK OFF.
As a director, Njagu’s first feature film, LOBOLA, paved the way for a new chapter of independent film-making in Zimbabwe.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Njagu said the country’s film industry has grown as shown by the production value in the films being made now.
“Working on a new feature film. We are done filming and now in post-production.
“The film is coming out soon and it’s a star-studded cast with Farai Chigudu as the leading man and introducing Chloe Thandeka Ncube as the leading lady, a new talented actress,” said Njagu.
Thirteen years as a filmmaker with eight feature films, 10 documentaries and numerous TV commercials and music videos, the filmmaker said he was happy with amazing support from the Zimbabwean creatives.
“Film had evolved in a big and good way. After years of meticulous development, an inspirational film set to highlight the beauty and resilience of Zimbabwe is finally green-lit.
“We have grown in the way we make films, and it shows in the production value in the films being made now.
“The film, inspired by a vision to showcase the true essence of Zimbabwe, emphasises the importance of national pride and unity.
“This powerful phrase encourages all Zimbabweans to contribute to nation-building, aligning perfectly with the country’s 2030 vision,” he said.
“The filmmakers are determined to help kick-start the Zimbabwean film industry in the international film arena.
“Now is the time for decisive support and collaboration to ensure we don’t miss this chance to showcase our nation’s potential and stories to the world.
“We have also become more independent, being kind of self reliant in a way. To be able move with the times, technology has also played in our favour.
“Cameras and other gear is now accessible and hence making it a big affordable to dream projects.
“To improve there is only one way, we keep at it, practice and improvement is obvious. Putting in the 10000 hours as they say,” she said.
In 2014, Joe was listed among the top 35 under 35 in Media in Africa by the non-profit Young Professionals in International Affairs.
Joe’s most recent feature
NGODA won Best Feature Film at the NAMA Awards 2023 and Joe has been recognised as a
“NAMA Legend” for his services to the Zimbabwean film industry.
