Reframing the Lens: A New Dawn for Zimbabwean Film

The air crackled with anticipation as film practitioners from across Zimbabwe converged in Harare for the inaugural Film Strategy Drafting Seminar.  This gathering, a testament to a shared vision for a thriving cinematic landscape, marked the beginning of a journey to craft a roadmap for the future of Zimbabwean film.

 

A Billion Dollar Dream: The Economic Potential of Film

The seminar, facilitated by Request Machimbira of the Proficiency Consulting Group (PCG), set the stage with a powerful message: film is not just entertainment; it’s a potent economic force.  Napoleon Nyanhi, Director of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, emphasized this point, stating, “Film and television are an export business with the potential to contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s GDP.” He urged the participants to craft a strategy that would demonstrate the industry’s value to the government, fostering collaboration and favorable policies.

 

A Collective Effort: Taking Ownership of the Future

The seminar’s message resonated deeply with the participants, who recognized the need for a unified vision.  “Film practitioners must take charge to craft a film strategy we are all proud of,” asserted Mr. Ndinde of the National Arts Council, emphasizing the need for ownership and commitment from within the industry.

 

The Past as a Guide: Tracing Zimbabwe’s Cinematic Journey

The seminar delved into Zimbabwe’s rich cinematic history, tracing its evolution from the colonial era to the present.  The Colonial Film Unit, established in the 1930s, played a significant role in shaping the industry’s early development, primarily through propaganda films during World War II.  The post-independence era saw a surge in international film production in Zimbabwe, with films like “Whispering Deaths” and “King Solomon’s Mines” being produced in Zimbabwe.  However, the industry faced challenges, including a shift in government funding priorities and the rise of piracy.

 

The Present Landscape: A SWOT Analysis for Growth

The seminar participants, including prominent figures like Charlene Furusa Mangweni, Joe Njagu, Rumbi Katedza, Richard Tentone, Munya Chidzoka, Eddie Sandifolo, Stephen Chigorimbo, and Benny Mahaka, engaged in a comprehensive SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the industry.

 

Strengths

• Resilience: The Zimbabwean film industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting to changing circumstances and continuing to produce content despite challenges.
• Innovation:  Filmmakers have shown a knack for innovation, finding creative solutions to overcome limitations and produce compelling stories.
• Committed Players:  A dedicated core of passionate filmmakers, actors, and technicians remains committed to the industry’s growth.
• Skills:  Zimbabwe boasts a pool of skilled professionals with diverse talents in filmmaking, acting, and technical production.
• Peer Mentorship:  A strong tradition of mentorship within the industry fosters knowledge sharing and talent development.
• Emerging Talent:  A new generation of filmmakers is emerging, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the scene.
• Literacy:  Zimbabwe has a relatively high literacy rate, contributing to a receptive audience for film.
• Exposure:  The industry has gained international exposure through the success of Zimbabwean filmmakers in Hollywood.
• Open-Minded Players:  The industry is open to embracing new technologies and approaches to filmmaking.
• Government Initiatives:  The government has shown a renewed commitment to supporting the film industry through initiatives like the proposed Arts Development Fund and Film Commission.

 

Weaknesses

• Haphazard Unstructured Mentorship:  While mentorship exists, it often lacks structure and consistency, hindering the development of young talent.
• Limited Exposure:  The industry faces challenges in accessing international markets and securing distribution deals.
• Lack of Professional Training Exposure:  Opportunities for professional training in film production are limited, hindering the development of technical skills.
• Lack of Specialization:  The industry lacks specialization in certain areas of film production, limiting its ability to compete on a global scale.
• Absence of Structures:  The lack of established structures and institutions to support the industry hinders its growth and development.
• Infrastructure Deficiencies:  Limited access to state-of-the-art equipment and studios hampers production quality and efficiency.
• Lack of Competitive Film Education:  The availability of quality film education programs is limited, hindering the development of a skilled workforce.
• Disunity Among Filmmakers:  A lack of unity and collaboration among filmmakers can hinder the industry’s collective bargaining power and ability to advocate for its interests.
• Absence of Technical Standards:  The absence of standardized technical guidelines and protocols can lead to inconsistencies in production quality.
• Informality of the Sector:  The lack of formal structures and regulations can create challenges in attracting investment and establishing a stable industry.
• Lack of Financial Infrastructure Capacity:  Limited access to financing options, including grants, loans, and investment opportunities, hinders production and distribution.
• Lack of Distribution Channels:  The industry lacks robust distribution channels, limiting the reach of Zimbabwean films both locally and internationally.
• Lack of Transparency:  A lack of transparency in funding allocation and industry practices can erode trust and hinder collaboration.
• Absence of Crew and Talent Rate Card:  The absence of standardized rate cards for crew and talent can lead to unfair compensation practices and hinder professional development.
• Inadequate Equipment:  Limited access to high-quality equipment can hamper production quality and limit the industry’s ability to compete with international standards.
• Inaccessible Locations:  Limited access to diverse locations and landscapes can restrict the scope of storytelling and production possibilities.
• Lack of Research and Development:  The industry lacks a dedicated focus on research and development, hindering innovation and the exploration of new technologies.

 

Opportunities:

• Diversity of Locations:  Zimbabwe boasts a diverse range of landscapes and environments, offering unique settings for film production.
• Rich Cultural Heritage:  Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage provides a wealth of stories and themes for filmmakers to explore.
• Favorable Climate:  Zimbabwe’s favorable climate allows for year-round film production, creating opportunities for international collaborations.
• Film Literate Audience:  Zimbabwe has a relatively high film literacy rate, creating a receptive audience for local and international films.
• Growing Genre Trends:  The rise of genres like action, adventure, and fantasy offers opportunities for Zimbabwean filmmakers to tap into global trends.
• Infrastructure Development:  Ongoing infrastructure development, including improved internet connectivity and telecommunications, can facilitate film production and distribution.
• Telling Zimbabwean Stories:  The opportunity to tell authentic Zimbabwean stories through film can attract a global audience and foster cultural pride.
• Integration:  The integration of the film industry into the broader creative economy can create opportunities for collaboration and cross-promotion.
• Employment Opportunities:  The growth of the film industry can create employment opportunities in various sectors, including production, post-production, distribution, and marketing.
• Revenue Generation:  The film industry has the potential to generate significant revenue through box office sales, television licensing, and international distribution.
• Foreign Direct Investment:  The industry can attract foreign direct investment through partnerships with international production companies and studios.
• Collaboration:  Collaboration with international filmmakers and production companies can provide access to resources, expertise, and global markets.
• Vibrant Advocacy:  A strong advocacy network can champion the industry’s interests and promote its growth.
• Technological Advancement:  The advancement of technology, including digital filmmaking and streaming platforms, can create new opportunities for production and distribution.
• International Talent Exports (Ambassadorship):  The success of Zimbabwean filmmakers in Hollywood can serve as a catalyst for attracting international attention and investment.

 

Threats

• Negative Perception:  Negative perceptions about Zimbabwe, often fueled by political instability and economic challenges, can deter international investment and collaboration.
• Currency Instability:  Fluctuations in the Zimbabwean dollar (ZiG) can create challenges for film production and distribution, particularly when dealing with international partners.
• Volatile Economic and Political Environment:  An unstable economic and political environment can disrupt film production and discourage investment.
• Sector Risks (ROI Risk):  The film industry is inherently risky, with no guarantee of return on investment, which can discourage potential investors.
• Lack of IP Enforcement Policies:  Weak intellectual property rights enforcement can lead to piracy and hinder the industry’s ability to monetize its content.
• Censorship:  Government censorship policies can restrict creative freedom and limit the scope of storytelling.
• Lack of Supportive Legal Frameworks:  The absence of comprehensive legal frameworks specifically tailored to the film industry can create challenges in securing funding, protecting intellectual property, and resolving disputes.
• Massive Competition from Hollywood, DSTV, Netflix, and Youtube:  The dominance of international streaming platforms and Hollywood productions poses a significant challenge to the local film industry.
• Fragmented Regulations/Institutions:  A fragmented regulatory landscape and lack of coordinated institutions can hinder the industry’s growth and development.
• Lack of Supporting Infrastructure:  The lack of adequate infrastructure, including studios, equipment, and post-production facilities, can hinder production quality and efficiency.
• Piracy:  The prevalence of piracy can undermine the industry’s revenue streams and discourage investment.
• Technological Advancement:  Rapid technological advancements can create challenges for the industry to adapt and keep pace with emerging trends.
• Lack of Audience Reception:  The industry faces challenges in attracting and retaining a local audience, particularly in the face of competition from international content.
• Fee Structure:  The lack of standardized fee structures for crew and talent can create challenges in attracting and retaining skilled professionals.

 

Paving the Way Forward: Pillars of the Strategy

The seminar participants identified key pillars for the film strategy, outlining a roadmap for the industry’s future

1. Governance and Regulation: Establishing a clear and transparent regulatory framework to govern the industry, including licensing, intellectual property protection, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
2. Funding and Finance of the Sector: Developing sustainable funding models, including government support, private investment, and international grants, to support film production, distribution, and talent development.
3. Infrastructure and Facilities: Investing in infrastructure development, including studios, equipment, and post-production facilities, to enhance production quality and efficiency.
4. Copyright Protection: Strengthening intellectual property rights enforcement to combat piracy and protect the industry’s revenue streams.
5. Local and International Collaborations: Fostering partnerships with international filmmakers, production companies, and distributors to access resources, expertise, and global markets.
6. Market and Distribution Channels: Developing robust distribution channels, both locally and internationally, to ensure wider reach and access for Zimbabwean films.
7. Film Education and Training: Investing in film education and training programs to develop a skilled workforce and foster talent growth.
8. Inclusivity: Promoting inclusivity in the industry, ensuring equal opportunities for women, youth, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and all film workers.
9. Research and Development: Investing in research and development to explore new technologies, storytelling techniques, and market trends.

 

A Shared Vision: A Call to Action

Richard Tentone, representing the Cinema Society of Zimbabwe, expressed optimism about the progress made during the seminar.  He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the industry through initiatives like the Arts Development Fund and Film Commission.  “We are confident Zimbabwe is open for film business,” he stated, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders.

The Film Strategy Seminar marked a crucial step in the journey to revitalize the Zimbabwean film industry.  The participants, united by a shared vision for a thriving cinematic landscape, have laid the groundwork for a comprehensive strategy that will guide the industry’s growth and development.  The path ahead will require continued collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment to ensuring that Zimbabwean stories are heard and celebrated on a global stage.