Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RENOWNED filmmaker and talent scout Eddie Ndhlovu is set to captivate audiences with his upcoming movie, “Fortnight.”
It is a daring exploration of seduction, marital strife and hypocrisy.
With the production nearing its end, Ndhlovu wants to redefine local filmmaking, bringing a fresh and compelling narrative to both small and big screens.
In an exclusive interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Ndhlovu expressed his vision for “Fortnight,” which features Netherlands-based mbira musician Vimbai Zimuto.
“It explores themes of power, seduction, betrayal, class tension, marriage, and the masks we wear behind closed doors,” he said.
At its core, the film is a psychological drama that delves into human desire, manipulation and the consequences of emotional entanglements.
Ndhlovu has assembled a diverse cast that includes both seasoned actors and newcomers.
Zimuto stars as Madam Ru, a manipulative landlady, joined by Munyaradzi Jena as Tino, Blessed Zezai as Lindi, and David Kanduna as Tembo, Madam Ru’s husband.
“The film features a strong cast,” Ndhlovu said. The production process has been intensive.
“The writing, development, and casting took about four weeks, followed by an intense 10-day shoot,” he said.
The film is currently in post-production, with editing being handled by Andre and Andile Ndhlovu.
Ndhlovu noted that they operated on a modest budget of under US$5,000, carefully stretching every dollar to achieve quality production value. What distinguishes “Fortnight” from Ndhlovu’s previous works is its bold and intimate storytelling.
“Fortnight is my boldest and most intimate story yet. Unlike previous films that leaned more into socio-economic themes or ensemble drama, this one focuses on a confined space and a tight timeframe—14 days, one house, four people. “It’s theatrical yet cinematic, emotionally raw, and visually stylized. It blurs the lines between victim and villain,” he said.
The film centres around Madam Ru, a glamorous and manipulative socialite who rents out a back apartment in her lavish suburban home to a young married couple – Tino and Lindi.
Over 14 turbulent nights, secrets unravel, passions ignite, and power dynamics shift dangerously.
What starts as polite coexistence quickly spirals into an intense battle of seduction, control, and survival, leaving no character untouched by the unfolding drama.
Ndhlovu is no stranger to the film and television industry, with a portfolio that includes several notable works.
His feature film “Nyanga” is set to premiere at SATOMBE in Zambia in September 2024, followed by a Zimbabwe premiere in Harare.
Additionally, he has “Moja Love,” scheduled for release next month and previously produced “Thandie’s Diary” and “Cook Off” in 2018.
His commitment to producing films is particularly admirable given the challenges faced by the Zimbabwean film industry.
There are ongoing calls for increased funding in a sector that has proven its potential as a billion-dollar industry globally, yet remains underfunded locally.
