Mandisoul Celebrates Success of Dunamis Premiere, Calls for Support for Local Cinema

Producer Marc Mandishora, known by his stage name Mandisoul, is celebrating the success of his film Dunamis following its premiere at Ster Kinekor Joina City in Harare last week. The event was met with an enthusiastic response, although there were some concerns raised by attendees about the high cost of entry. Many agreed that local cinema houses should adjust their venue hire charges to better accommodate emerging African filmmakers and allow for more affordable access to African films.

Mandishora, reflecting on the positive reception, shared with NewsDay Life & Style that the audience found the film to be of great value for their money. He revealed that after the Harare premiere, they are preparing to take the film on a nationwide tour, with upcoming screenings planned for Bulawayo, Mutare, and Masvingo. A special presentation with international guests is also in the works before the film is made available for streaming.

“I think Zimbabwean film is on the right track and the cinema culture can easily be re-established if we all push towards taking productions to this important platform consistently,” Mandishora remarked. He further expressed his excitement for the prospects that Nu Metro, a cinema chain, presents for Zimbabwean filmmakers, calling it a fresh opportunity to showcase local content in cinemas.

Dunamis tells the gripping story of a violent and corrupt detective with a personal vendetta against the body of Christ, stemming from his mother’s unpleasant experience with a pastor who had deceived her. The detective’s mission is to dismantle Pentecostal churches, starting with the most popular ministry led by Bishop Duncan Fraser.

The film’s cast members also shared their experiences working on the project. Nyasha Nhongo, who played the character of Advocate Ezekiel Mabhena, described his three months on set as a learning experience that was both challenging and rewarding. “The launch of Dunamis was actually more rewarding because it is interesting to see the fruits of hard work others put in. We hope this film will inspire a lot of actors and filmmakers,” he said, highlighting the potential impact of the film on both the industry and the audience.

Edmond Chamer, who portrayed Detective Bernard, a complex character who oscillates between virtuous and villainous traits, shared his appreciation for the opportunity to work with such a talented cast and crew. “I enjoyed every moment of working with the team,” Chamer said, adding that he believed the film had spiritual value and should be given more time on the big screen.

The supporting cast, which includes Jermaine Cole Mandisoul, Winter Sky Mandisoul, Paul Shephard, Devante Ray Britten, Shylet Mupeti, Raymond Zvarova, Declorencia Shiri, and Tafadzwa Bob Mutumbi, expressed gratitude for the film’s success and the opportunity to grow as professional actors.

Looking ahead, Mandishora, who also serves as the chairperson of the Zimbabwe Oscars Committee, is optimistic about the future of Zimbabwean cinema. He anticipates a busy year in 2025, with plans to take Dunamis to global film festivals in Cannes, Tribeca, Amsterdam, New York, Los Angeles, Canada, Japan, and other major venues. “Dunamis is dignified enough for a successful Film Festival run in 2025 that will take us to Cannes, Tribeca, Amsterdam, New York, Los Angeles, Canada, Japan and other major festival venues. This is a truly global project with international cinematic appeal,” Mandishora said.

As Dunamis continues its journey across Zimbabwe and prepares for its international debut, the film represents a significant step forward for Zimbabwean cinema. However, the challenges of financing and distribution for local productions remain. Mandishora’s call for more support from local cinema houses echoes a broader need for a sustainable ecosystem for African films to thrive, ensuring that filmmakers can reach audiences both locally and globally.