‘Mutare is the new Hollywood’

Society Reporter

A new movie titled “Depth of Emotions”, which tackles challenges faced by women and children, was recently launched by Mutare-based McLara Films Productions.

The red-carpet premiere that was held at a hotel in Mutare attracted hundreds of people – including top officials from the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe such as Dr Nozipho Maraire (chairperson), Mr Nicholas Moyo (director) and Mrs Caroline Makoni (Mutare director), as well as Dr Miriam Kanyenze.

“Depth of Emotions” was written and directed by Amanda Ranganawa, a Mutare-based filmmaker.

It mainly focuses on women’s health, love, commitment, marriage and societal views on child marriages. Dr Maraire hailed Ranganawa for the thought-provoking production.

“Amanda (Ranganawa) did not move to a big city. She used the resources around here and came up with a beautiful film. In doing that, she united the city through art,” said Dr Maraire.

Ranganawa plans to produce more films.

“I actually think that Mutare is the new Hollywood. We have nature, landscapes, beautiful sites, resorts, people, talent stories and supportive communities. If Mutare filmmakers are given funding to produce films and television series, we could see beautiful productions blossoming,” she said.

The launch helped raise funds to pay her cast and crew, which include interns, among them Blessing Bukutu, Rutendo Prejunia Chinokuramba and Yeukai Soliath.

“A film premiere made sense because you can get more money to pay your actors and crew,” said the filmmaker.

“As the event organiser, I felt that next time, it will be wise to get a bigger hall that can accommodate more numbers, because people are really hungry for local content and they do want to see local stories.”

“Depth of Emotions” elicited a positive response from the audience.

Ranganawa also features in Nakai Tsuro’s new drama series called “Broken Lives” as one of the cast members and location manager.

Other films she has worked on include “All She Wants” (2017), “Amwene” (2017), “Sins of the Father” (2018), “Kushata KweMoyo” (2019), “Smoking Gun” (2022) and “Broken Lives” (2022).

Apart from being a filmmaker and actress, she is also a researcher and philanthropist.