Latwell Nyangu
ZIMBABWEAN film Maneater, a tense, single-location African thriller, has scooped four awards at the 2026 Rivers International Film Festival (RIFF) in Nigeria.
The film, which reimagines classic vampire lore through a gripping story of manipulation, lust and the hunger for power, was released in October this year.
Shot in 2026 but set in 2007, the production was directed by Mitchell Jane Jeke, a Zimbabwean filmmaker, actress and content creator whose bold storytelling and distinctive creative vision have established her as an emerging voice in African cinema.
The film received 10 nominations, including Best Actor, Best Story and Best African Film, before going on to win four awards, with the coveted Best Overall Film award emerging as the biggest recognition of the night.
At 31, Jeke brings a diverse range of talents to her projects, seamlessly blending acting, writing, directing and content creation.
The film’s executive producer, Kudzai Sadomba, said the awards marked a significant milestone for the production team and Zimbabwe’s film industry.
Although Sadomba has featured in several Zimbabwean productions, including Varsity, Mirror of Personality (2012) and Tsvimbo muSuitcase (2016), Maneater marks his first major acting role, in which he portrays Maxwell Shumba, a powerful but deeply flawed tycoon.
Zimbabwe was represented at the festival by Sadomba and the film’s lead actress, Nabeelah Jogee, who also serves as one of its producers.
“Representing Zimbabwe was a proud moment for us and we really enjoyed networking with other great icons of African film such as the great John Njamah and Gentle Jack.
“We are extremely proud, and we were not expecting to win the highest gong.
“As the production team, we feel we have shown it is possible as the Zimbabwe to make an impact in the African film industry and representing amongst Nollywood and African greats is very encouraging to the team.
“It is a proud moment for us, a lot of work went into making the film.
“I believe we lead in terms of the number of nominations at 9, more than any other film but we are the only Zimbabwean film selected for the RIFF.
“This speaks to the quality of the film, the technical expertise, tools that were employed and to the acting itself,” he said.
Sadomba also highlighted the contribution of the cast, noting that the performances played a significant role in the film’s success.
“We have all our main actors with nominations including the star herself, Nabeelah Jogee.
“It is a huge milestone for the Zimbabwean film industry as this will be the second time Zimbabwe will be represented at the prestigious RIFF and their awards.
“As you may be aware, last year, Zimbabwe was represented by Chinhoyi 7 which subsequently was nominated for 6 awards and went away with the converted Best Overall Film Award,” he said.
Sadomba said increased support for the local film industry, particularly at policy level, could help Zimbabwean productions achieve greater success on the international stage.
“I believe with more support, things will only get better, especially at the policy level in terms of film in Zimbabwe.
“Aside from RIFF taking place in Nigeria, the film was selected for the Zambian International Film Festival where it will be having its World Premiere so, it’s exciting times for us all.”
Jogee, who plays the lead role of Amanda, also expressed her excitement over the recognition, saying she was speechless.
“We were not expecting much but we appreciate everyone for this recognition.”
Running for 81 minutes and 41 seconds, Maneater is an entirely Zimbabwean production that was shot in just five days on a budget of US$10 000. The film was completed on April 29, with much of its storyline unfolding in real time within a single mansion.
The production blends elements of an erotic thriller, psychological horror and African vampire mythology, with Jogee delivering a leading performance as Amanda.
The storyline centres on Amanda, a seductive vampire who offers wealthy business tycoon Maxwell Shumba three million dollars for his company in exchange for one night of total surrender.
As she draws out his darkest secrets through blood and desire, the balance of power shifts, turning the hunter into the hunted.
Jeke, who holds a formal qualification in television and film production, has developed her craft through skits, short films and feature productions, earning recognition for her visual storytelling and emotionally charged narratives.
Her previous credits include appearances in Dust and The Last ECODISH, where she demonstrated her versatility both in front of and behind the camera.
With Maneater, Jeke delivers a suspense-filled and psychologically intense African thriller that explores power, desire and control within a single location.
Her distinctive filmmaking style combines raw intimacy with a gothic atmosphere, creating a cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
