Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
THE much-anticipated short film Chasing Levels, directed by Bulawayo filmmaker Dumi Manyathela, is set to make its debut at the European Film Festival Zimbabwe (EuroFilmFestZW).
The ninth edition of the festival will run from October 11 to 19 with the main events in Harare at Mbare Art Space and Ster-Kinekor in Bulawayo. There will be pop-up screenings in Kadoma and Gweru at venues yet to be announced.
Nominated for its poignant exploration of fitness and mental health, Chasing Levels follows the inspiring journey of athlete Tapiwa Zimhamba, known as the Fitness Doctor.
Manyathela told Chronicle Showbiz that his motivation to create the production stemmed from his own experiences with fitness and its profound impact on mental well-being. Having participated in one of Zimhamba’s 30-Day Challenges, Manyathela found a close connection to his subject.
“I wanted to explore the power of fitness beyond just physical transformation,” he explained.
“Tapiwa’s consistency and commitment to fitness make him a natural focus for this documentary.”
He said the film aims to highlight the healing and empowering aspects of storytelling.
“I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling to heal and inspire,” Manyathela noted.
As the cinematographer, Manyathela focused on visual storytelling to convey emotional depth.
“The goal was to capture intimate moments of vulnerability and strength,” he shared.
Through close-up shots and wide angles, the film illustrates Zimhamba’s journey, symbolising personal growth through light and shadow.
With Chasing Levels, Manyathela hopes to ignite discussions around fitness, mental health and the importance of community support.
“We want to challenge the notion that fitness is merely about physical appearance,” he stated.
Instead, the film seeks to position fitness as a vital tool for mental well-being and resilience.
Producing the film was not without its hurdles. Operating on a tight budget, Manyathela emphasised creativity and collaboration within the community.
“Working with a team that shares your vision is crucial,” he reflected.
This collaboration allowed them to deliver a film that is both visually-compelling and emotionally resonant.
At the EuroFilmFestZW Bioskop Short Film competition, which is running under the theme, “Staying connected”, Manyathela’s Chasing Levels will be pitted against Jared Mohan Bunga’s Before the storm as well as From huts to pots by Tswarelo Mothobe. Manyathela said this nomination is a significant milestone for him and his team.
“This recognition is a blessing and a testament to the hard work of everyone involved,” he expressed.
The nomination he said, not only validates their efforts but also inspires them to continue sharing authentic African stories.
Already, Manyathela is brainstorming future projects that will further explore themes of personal growth and community empowerment.
“We believe these are important conversations to continue,” he said.
For those aspiring to create impactful documentaries, Manyathela offered sage advice: “Focus on authenticity. Tell stories that resonate with you personally.”
He emphasised the importance of patience and commitment, reminding filmmakers that meaningful storytelling takes time but is always worth the effort. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
Online Reporter