Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu in Tsholotsho
INGWALO Ezingasoze Zabuna Films and Publishers officially launched and screened Iphupho Lami (My Dream) at the Better Schools Programme of Zimbabwe (BSPZ) building, located at the Tsholotsho Business Centre in Matabeleland North province, over the weekend.
The event marked the official unveiling of the latest cinematic work from acclaimed local author and film director, Pascar Ncube.
True to his distinctive style, Ncube once again adapts his own written work for the screen, following his 2023 adaptation of the IsiNdebele novel, Imfihlo Yomndeni, into a film of the same name.
Iphupho Lami delves into the complex and often turbulent dynamics of a family fractured by the pursuit of opportunities abroad.
The narrative explores the emotional toll, conflicts, and societal pressures that arise when family members are separated by distance and differing aspirations.
The film showcases a potent ensemble cast blending established names with fresh local talent.
Tamlin Moyo takes centre stage in the pivotal lead role of Sihlobosikababa Dlodlo, portraying the headstrong eldest daughter navigating the family’s challenges.
She is supported by Mkhululi Hadebe as her father, Dlodlo, and Ethel Gumpo as her mother, MaSiziba. Anderson Mkhwananzi completes the core family unit as Bhekumndeni Dlodlo.
Adding significant star power and cultural gravitas is the legendary Bulawayo dancer and actress, Ellen Mlangeni.
Renowned nationally for leading the Thandanani Women’s Ensemble Cultural Dance group and internationally for her role in the 1992 Warner Brothers film, The Power of One, Mlangeni graces the screen as MaNdimande, the mother of Dlodlo.
The supporting cast features Nkosinokupha Dube as Sihlobo’s 27-year-old boyfriend, Talent Dube as Sox, and Gugulethu Dube as Thandie, Sihlobo’s friend.
The premiere event itself was a celebration of local art and culture beyond the film screening.
Attendees were treated to a performance by the Plumtree-based poetess, Zingizwan’izinja.
Further enriching the experience, the multi-talented Ellen Mlangeni captivated the young attendees with a captivating folk tale performance.
The event drew notable figures, including Tsholotsho South Legislator and Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Musa Ncube.
The Deputy Minister commended Pascar Ncube and the production crew for their impactful initiative, highlighting the film’s potential role in addressing critical social issues.
“Initiatives like Iphupho Lami are crucial weapons in our fight against the scourge of drug and substance abuse devastating our communities, especially our youth,” Ncube stated.
“By telling authentic stories that resonate with our people, films like this can raise awareness, spark important conversations, and inspire positive choices. We applaud Mr Ncube and his team for using their art to contribute meaningfully to this vital national effort.”
The premiere of Iphupho Lami in Tsholotsho signifies not just the launch of a new local film but also a community-focused effort harnessing storytelling to confront pressing social realities and celebrate Matabeleland North’s artistic talent.
Droves of people showed support for one of their own and if the premiere is anything to go by, then Tsholotsho is on the right path to creative content creation. — @MbuleloMpofu
