Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
EXCITEMENT is building in Tsholotsho as local author and film director, Pascar Ncube, prepares for the hometown premiere of his latest motion picture, Iphupho Lami.
The film will be screened on December 22, at the Better Schools Programme of Zimbabwe (BSPZ) building, located in the Tsholotsho Business Centre.
Ncube, who has earned recognition for adapting his own literary works into films, follows up his 2023 production Imfihlo Yomndeni, based on his IsiNdebele novel of the same title, with this latest offering, Iphupho Lami.
He said Iphupho Lami delves into the complex and often turbulent dynamics of a family fractured by the pursuit of opportunities abroad.
The film boasts a strong ensemble cast featuring local talent alongside established names. Tamlin Moyo takes on the pivotal lead role of Sihlobosikababa Dlodlo, the headstrong eldest daughter. She is joined by Mkhululi Hadebe as her father, Dlodlo, and Ethel Gumpo as her mother, MaSiziba. Anderson Mkhwananzi portrays Bhekumndeni Dlodlo.
Adding significant star power is legendary dancer and actress, Ellen Mlangeni. Renowned for leading the Thandanani Women’s Ensemble Cultural Dance group and for her role in the 1991 Warner Brothers film, The Power of One, Mlangeni graces the screen as MaNdimande, the mother to Dlodlo.
The cast is completed by Nkosinokupha Dube, who plays Sihlobo’s 27-year-old boyfriend; Talent Dube as Soxy and Gugulethu Dube as Thandie, Sihlobo’s close friend.
Director Pascar Ncube said beyond being a family drama, Iphupho Lami carries a strong social message. He said the film seeks to raise awareness about how the migration of people to the diaspora can bring both positive and negative effects on communities and society at large.
“The new generation often takes advantage of being unsupervised at home to host Vuzu parties, using money sent by their parents working in the diaspora.
“This is the reality of our society today. Sihlobo, as a 2K (Gen Z), represents a large portion of this youthful community.” — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
