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Ricky Mandizvidza Entertainment Reporter
Acclaimed film writer, director and actor Tawanda Gunda Mupengo is a bitter man. In an interview with The Herald Entertainment last week, the filmmaker – who has worked hard for the local film industry over the past years – fumed over the state of the film sector.
He spoke about inadequate remuneration in the industry and lack of sponsorship, which has crippled the sector.
“There is potential for us to make a decent living from film proceeds but currently it is difficult. I have been in film for some time but I cannot live from proceeds of the industry,” said Gunda.
Gunda, who has been in the film industry for some time, said the local film industry is almost non-existent because of the lack of resources, which has seen most names in the trade struggling financially.
“In fact, we cannot talk of a film industry at the moment here in Zimbabwe. We do not have any infrastructure for starters and moreso there are no serious unions to represent the rights of actors, directors, producers and in the end it is just the individual who works hard to see their small project taking shape”, said Gunda.
The “Tanyaradzwa” director indicated that one of the crippling factors in the local industries was the inefficient marketing and distribution procedures.
“In countries like India or America, the release of a film is characterised by vigorous marketing strategies but in some instances local cinemas are not flexible.
“For instance, the movie Tanyaradzwa’ attracted overwhelming interest but only one venue showed it when all film lovers wanted to sample it. There were long queues and movie goers ended up getting frustrated and watching other movies instead.
“Had there been other platforms, people would have just watched the movie from say Chitungwiza or Dzivarasekwa without having to come into town and probably would not have gone back home disappointed as this was the situation the city,” said Gunda.
Things seem to have not been so rosy for the soft spoken and award winning director but he promised film lovers that better times were ahead.
“Film lovers should not despair for we may be down at the moment but be assured that we have very good and exciting times ahead of us,” promised Gunda.
Online Reporter