Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
FOR years, socialite Mai TT, real name Felistas Murata, has been a magnet for both admiration and ridicule, a figure whose life has played out under the harsh glare of public scrutiny.
To some, she is a fearless go-getter who has turned pain into power, while to others, she remains a polarising character whose flaws overshadow her triumphs.
Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Mai TT continues to defy expectations — and her latest milestone, the premiere of her brand-new movie, “Lost in Ashes”, has once again placed her in the spotlight.
It is a fact that Zimbabwean and Nigerian actors have united in a ground-breaking collaboration for the forthcoming weekend at WestGate Cinemas with a star-studded audience.
The highly anticipated launch promises not only to showcase a powerful story but also to cement cultural ties between two of Africa’s biggest creative hubs.
By bringing together Zimbabwean artistry and Nollywood’s dynamic flair, the film is expected to highlight the depth of African storytelling while fostering stronger industry partnerships.
Observers believe this collaboration could mark a turning point, opening doors for future co-productions and joint ventures that strengthen the continent’s film landscape.
More than just a movie debut, the premiere is poised to be a cultural celebration — one that blends traditions, promotes unity and carries the weight of award-winning potential.
For both nations, it signals a shared vision: African cinema rising on its own terms and making waves beyond the continent.
The good thing, about this forthcoming production it has been endorsed by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ). They have confirmed the arrival of seven Nigerian actors who are coming to première.
But what makes the movie tick, as it has been topical on social media for the past weeks, and why the sudden twist to focus so much on acting compared to what she is known for, social media, business and music, among other things?.
The USD$150 000 budget movie and premiere launch, according to Mai TT, who also happens to be the executive producer, features some of the top Nigerian movie stars who include Mike Ezuruonye, Joy Patrick Ezedike, Anita Joseph and Chinyere Winfred.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts Hub, Mai TT, as she is affectionately known, said her new movie would be first premièred in Zimbabwe before it goes to other platforms.
“I am the executive producer of the movie and also the main actress. We are launching it first in Zimbabwe before going to other platforms, which include Nigerian television stations and social media platforms,” she said.
“The total budget for the movie and its première is USD$150 000.”
She did not shed much light about the movie but just hinted that it is “a piece of my heart, a story of my life. It’s emotional, real and raw.”
However, when asked how she has become versatile, being found in almost every discipline — music, acting, comedy and business among other things, Mai TT said she is a rebirth of herself.
“I am a renaissance person and would like to say to those who look up to me remember, it is okay to make mistakes. Learn from them and keep growing.”
“Your potential is limitless. Don’t be afraid to take risks and chase your dreams,” she said. The première which is a statement of resilience will see top Nigerian movie stars jetting in ahead of the première.
“The Nigerian superstars will land on Friday and Mike Eerounye, Mike Godson, Chinyere Winfred, Joy Patrick Ezedike, Anita Joseph, Iyke Odife and Flossy Florento.”
Already, the trailer has received showers of praise based on the production quality and raw emotion of the film, noting that Mai TT’s personal touch made the story even more relatable.
For an entertainer often caught in controversy, the movie première somehow symbolises a new chapter — one where her artistry took centre stage over social media noise.
According to one film critic who commented on the trailer on anonymity, he said the film, which she both stars in and helped bring to life, in a nutshell reflects her journey of struggle, survival and ambition, leaving fans cheering and critics silenced, at least for the night.
“I have been called names, I have been judged and ridiculed, but today I stand here because I refuse to give up,” Mai TT said during one of her address, drawing thunderous applause from her fans on social media.
“This movie is not just about entertainment — it is about strength, about telling our own stories, and about never letting failure define us.”
Now, as a star, to be written in the history of the film industry in Zimbabwe as far as it concerns, as the credits roll at the end of the movie screening, Mai Tt’s star, though tested by storms, will continue to shine brighter.
Fingers crossed, if what she preaches about the movie is what she practices, but never the same, acting is acting.
Will she bag a gong next year in the film category, not only at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) but of course, at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, which is somehow the home of Nigerian movies?.
Time will tell if we all lost in ashes.
