ASIFF 2023 | In conversation with Minizobuhle Mmango
© 2023 Minizobuhle Mmango
It is always surprising to witness the tenacity of those whose stories are yet to be written. Minizobuhle Mmango is a young filmmaker who did not let herself be defeated by her limitations. Her latest film, despite being shot with the bare essentials, did not fail to be powerful and relevant. In it, she narrates the secluded existence of Xhosa women whose connection to the land is both a reality and a poem under observation. Inspired by strong women, she hopes to continue giving a voice to those close to her.
Can you share some insights into your journey as an emerging filmmaker, particularly how your upbringing may have influenced your interest in filmmaking?
Well to start off with, growing up I never thought I was going to be a filmmaker because I always saw myself in the science field (Geologist or Climatologist), but to cut the story short I’d say I got to the filmmaking industry by accident. The filmmaking bug hit me in my final year of study when the first short film I co-wrote and produced took 5 awards at the student film festival. That’s when I really thought I could produce a film.
As an emerging filmmaker, my first applaud played a significant role in shaping my interest in storytelling and filmmaking. Post varsity I was surrounded by diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives, which fueled my curiosity about the human condition and the world around me. Whether it was listening to people’s stories and experiences, exploring different neighborhoods, or watching a wide range of films, I was constantly exposed to narratives that inspired me to explore my own creative voice. This rich tapestry of influences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and the ability of film to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and foster empathy.
Being a filmmaker from South Africa, how has your cultural background and the unique aspects of South African storytelling influenced your creative process?
Being a filmmaker from South Africa has profoundly influenced my creative process. The diverse cultural landscape of South Africa offers a wealth of stories, traditions, and perspectives that continually inspire and inform my work. This richness of our unique cultures and diversities makes me strive to create narratives that resonates with my South African audience and Africa at large while honouring and embracing our true African culture. This fusion of cultural influences allows me to craft stories that are both deeply rooted in their context and accessible to audiences around the world. In essence, my cultural background and the unique aspects of South African storytelling infuse my creative process with a sense of authenticity, diversity, and resilience.
As someone who has navigated the challenges of small budget productions, how do you approach storytelling when resources are limited?
Navigating the challenges of small budget productions requires creativity, resourcefulness, and a focus on storytelling fundamentals. When resources are limited, I approach storytelling by emphasizing the strength of the narrative itself. This means prioritizing compelling characters, engaging plotlines, and evocative themes that can captivate audiences regardless of production scale.
Producing my first short film with a low budget made me realise that embracing constraints as creative opportunities rather than limitations allowed me to push the boundaries of what's possible within the resources available, this ultimately resulted in keeping the film as inventive, authentic, and resonant as possible. I honestly learnt to use what I have.
© 2023 Minizobuhle Mmango | Chosi Ngantsomi
Congratulations on winning a prize at the recent African Smartphone International Film Festival for your short film! Could you tell us more about the film and how the use of a smartphone impacted your creative choices?
Thank you!
The film that won at the African Smartphone International Film Festival titled “Chosi Ngantsomi“ is a short visual film about a group of young women who reconnect with their cultural heritage and rediscover the richness of their roots. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and cultural rediscovery.
Using a smartphone to shoot Chosi Ngantsomi had a profound impact on my creative choice. The accessibility of the smartphone allowed me to capture intimate moments in authentic locations, lending a sense of immediacy to the storytelling. I embraced the smartphone's unique capabilities, experimenting with unconventional angles, handheld shots, and natural lighting to create a visually immersive experience.
Moreover, the smartphone enabled me to work with a smaller crew and shoot in remote locations that might have been logistically challenging with traditional equipment. This flexibility empowered me to capture spontaneous moments and genuine emotions, adding depth and authenticity to the film.
In addition, I’d say the use of a smartphone not only influenced my creative approach but also allowed me to embrace the filmmaking process, allowing me to tell a compelling story with limited resources while reaching a global audience.
Many emerging filmmakers face constraints on resources. How do you see limitations as opportunities for creative innovation in filmmaking?
Limitations in filmmaking, whether they're budgetary, technical, or logistical, can be powerful catalysts for creative innovation. When faced with constraints, emerging filmmakers have the opportunity to think outside the box, push boundaries, and find inventive solutions that ultimately enhance the storytelling experience.
As a young and aspiring creator, how would you describe the film industry in South Africa, any challenge? Do you find it hard to find opportunities?
The film industry in South Africa is vibrant and dynamic, with a rich history of storytelling and a growing reputation on the global stage. However, like any industry, it also presents its own set of challenges, especially for young and aspiring creators.
One of the main challenges that I personally have to encounter is access to funding and resources. Securing financing for film projects, especially for emerging filmmakers, can be a daunting task, as funding opportunities are often limited and competitive. This can make it difficult for aspiring creators to bring their ideas to life and gain traction in the industry.
Also, breaking into the industry and finding opportunities can be challenging, particularly for newcomers and just finding a mere job in the film industry is difficult. Building a network, establishing credibility, and gaining visibility as a young filmmaker often requires persistence, resilience, and a willingness to take creative risks.
Can you share a specific challenge you encountered during the production of your recent films and how you overcame it, showcasing the resilience needed in low-budget filmmaking?
One of the specific challenge I encountered was securing suitable locations within our limited budget. As a low-budget production, I didn't have the financial resources to rent traditional filming locations or build elaborate sets. However, finding the right locations was crucial to capturing the authenticity and atmosphere of the story.
I also couldn’t capture some elements of the film due to weather conditions, it was raining throughout. Also getting the specific props that I needed was a challenge as I didn’t have the finances to rent traditional props. One had to borrow some of the props from neighbours and use my grandma’s clothes for wardrobe.
I adopted a creative approach and told myself that I’m going to shoot this story which actually made me embraced the constraints of the budget and adapted the script to make the most of the locations we could secure. This meant reimagining certain scenes, adjusting the blocking and finding inventive ways to maximize the visual impact of each location.
© 2023 Minizobuhle Mmango | On set of Chosi Ngantsomi
How do you perceive the role of women in the film industry today, and what changes would you like to see in terms of representation and opportunities?
Women's role in the film industry today is multifaceted and evolving. While there have been strides towards greater representation and inclusion, there are still significant disparities in terms of opportunities, recognition, and leadership positions. Women continue to face systemic barriers and gender bias that limit their advancement and visibility in the industry.
In terms of representation, women are increasingly asserting their presence both on and off-screen, challenging traditional stereotypes and expanding the range of stories and perspectives depicted in film. Female filmmakers, writers, directors, producers, and technicians are making significant contributions to the cinematic landscape, enriching the industry with their diverse voices and experiences.
However, there is still much work to be done to achieve true gender parity and equity in the African film industry. I would like to see greater representation of women in key creative roles, including directing, producing, and writing, as well as increased visibility and recognition for their contributions to film. This requires proactive efforts to address systemic barriers, unconscious biases, and unequal power dynamics that perpetuate gender inequality in the industry.
Moreover, I would like to see more support and investment in initiatives that empower and uplift women filmmakers, such as mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and networking events. By providing women with the resources, mentorship, and platforms they need to succeed, we can create a more inclusive and equitable film industry that reflects the diversity of human experiences and perspectives. By advocating for greater representation and opportunities for women in film, we can create a more vibrant, diverse, and socially relevant cinematic landscape for audiences around the world.
Graduated from City Varsity School of Media and Creative Arts, how would you describe your experience as a student in cinema? Can you tell us a bit about the film schools in SA and how they shape the next generation of filmmakers? Any problems with the current state of film schools in SA?
Studying film and television at City Varsity was a transformative experience that provided me with a solid foundation in filmmaking and helped shape me into the filmmaker I am today. The program offered a comprehensive curriculum that encompassed all aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and producing. Through hands-on practical projects, collaborative teamwork, I gained invaluable skills, insights, and connections that prepared me for a career in the film industry. City Varsity is just one of several film schools in South Africa that play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of filmmakers.
Film schools in South Africa play a vital role in nurturing and cultivating talent, fostering creativity, and instilling a strong work ethic and professional ethos in aspiring filmmakers. They provide students with access to state-of-the-art equipment, industry-standard facilities, and hands-on experience that is essential for developing their craft and building their portfolios. Additionally, film schools often facilitate networking opportunities that help students bridge the gap between education and the professional world.
South Africa has a diverse cultural landscape, including the Xhosa people. How do you think the representation of Xhosa culture in cinema has evolved, and what impact does it have on shaping broader perceptions?
The representation of Xhosa culture in cinema has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting broader shifts in society and storytelling practices. In the past, depictions of Xhosa culture in cinema were often limited and stereotypical, perpetuating narrow and often negative stereotypes. However, in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on authentic and nuanced portrayals of Xhosa culture, driven by a desire to challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and foster greater understanding and appreciation for Xhosa traditions, customs, and values.
One notable example of this evolution is the rise of Xhosa filmmakers and storytellers who are reclaiming their narratives and presenting their culture on their own terms. By sharing their stories, experiences, and perspectives through film, Xhosa filmmakers are challenging misconceptions, highlighting the richness and complexity of Xhosa culture, and contributing to a more diverse and inclusive cinematic landscape.
Moreover, the increasing visibility of Xhosa culture in cinema has a profound impact on shaping broader perceptions, both within South Africa and internationally. By presenting authentic and multidimensional portrayals of Xhosa people and their way of life, cinema has the power to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and promote cross-cultural understanding and empathy. I think the representation of Xhosa culture in cinema has the potential to inspire pride and a sense of belonging among Xhosa communities, as well as foster greater appreciation and respect for their cultural heritage among audiences of all backgrounds.
© 2023 Minizobuhle Mmango | On set of Chosi Ngantsomi
Can you tell us a bit more about the title ''Chosi Ngantsomi'' from your recent film, how does it relate to you?
“Chosi Ngantsomi" which means ‘‘Once upon a time’’, is a title that holds personal significance for me and is deeply rooted in my cultural heritage. In the context of my recent film, Chosi Ngantsomi serves as both a symbolic and literal representation of self-discovery and cultural identity. The title reflects themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and embracing one's heritage that are central to the film's narrative.
As a filmmaker with Xhosa heritage, the title "Chosi Ngantsomi" resonates with me on a personal level, representing a connection to my roots and a celebration of my cultural identity. It reflects my journey of self-discovery and creative expression, as well as my commitment to telling authentic and meaningful stories that honor my heritage and resonate with audiences around the world.
Chosi Ngantsomi serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing one's identity, cultural heritage, celebrating diversity, and finding strength and beauty in the journey of self-discovery.
Tell us about a South African filmmaker that inspired you in your work and how they helped.
One South African filmmaker who inspires me and has inspired me in my work is Sihle Hlophe. As a director, producer, and writer, Sihle has made significant contribution to the South African film industry and has been a trailblazer for women filmmakers in the country. Her work is characterized by its authenticity, social relevance, and commitment to telling diverse and compelling stories that resonate with audiences both locally and internationally.
She was my first internship mentor and I got to witness her work ethics and how she always strives to get things done. In addition to her creative achievements, Sihle has also been a mentor for emerging filmmakers, particularly women and individuals and through her mentorship programs she has helped to provide opportunities to most aspiring filmmakers.
Sihle’s work ethics and achievements has inspired me to pursue my own creative ambitions and use storytelling as a tool for social change. Her dedication to authenticity, inclusivity, and empowerment serves as a guiding light for aspiring filmmakers like me, reminding us of the transformative power of cinema to inspire, educate, and uplift audiences around the world.
What are your plans for your next film? Any themes or subjects you would like to talk about?
For my next film, I'm exploring themes of power, gender-based violence, education, and intergenerational relationships within the context of South African society. I'm particularly interested in delving into the complexities of family dynamics, sexual violence and what power can do to the underprivileged in the community.
I aim to create a film that resonates with audiences on a visceral level while also sparking thought and dialogue about the themes and issues it explores. My goal for my next film is to create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that reflects the social issues and complexity of South African society while also speaking to universal themes and truths about the human condition. Through storytelling, I hope to foster empathy, inspire reflection, and contribute to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.
CHOSI NGANTSOMI
| By Minizobuhle Mmango
Chosi Ngantsomi is a visual film that explore some aspects of the Xhosa cultural roots and inspired by the work that the elders used to do back in the days in the rural areas. The film captures the day-to-day lives of women in the Eastern Cape.
