Online Reporter
Anotida Chonzi
A LOCAL filmmaker, Sean Jena, is set to release his latest film, “I Hope”, on February 15.
Despite facing numerous challenges, the 26-year-old has persevered to bring his vision to life.
Jena’s passion for filmmaking began during his time at Midlands State University, where he studied from 2015 to 2019.
He started writing dramas and eventually produced his first film, “Full Circle Love and Blood”, in 2020, with the help of his friend Pride Ngoni.
However, due to financial constraints and lack of sponsorship, Jena took a temporary break from filmmaking.
His passion was rekindled in 2023 when he joined the Ignite Youth Organisation as an assistant to founder Tadzi Madzima.
This opportunity allowed him to gain experience working with cameras and reinvigorated his ambition of becoming a film director and writer.
He then decided to go for it, even though he did not have enough funding.
“My friend and I created a poster calling for aspiring actors to attend rehearsals, I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response, as numerous individuals showed up despite our clear indication that we wouldn’t be covering transportation costs.”
Jena’s latest film, “I Hope”, tackles pressing contemporary issues such as drug abuse, corruption, religion, music and crime.
The film features a cast including Samatha Chere, Felix Carlton Rwarasika and Michelle Mavera, to mention but just a few.
Despite facing financial challenges and the lack of family support, Jena remains committed to his craft.
He is already planning his next project, “Sodom in Harare”, and hopes to save enough money to bring it to life.
Jena’s long-term goal is to revolutionise the Zimbabwean film industry by producing high-quality films that can compete on the global stage.
Mathew Masinge