Jonathan Samukange Wins Best Narrative Film at 2025 EU Film Festival Zimbabwe

Jonathan Samukange, popularly known as Dyrekta O, has earned top honours at the 2025 European Film Festival Zimbabwe (EUFILMFESTZW), where his short film Peggy was named Best Narrative Film in the BIOSKOP! Short Film Competition. The announcement came after a closely contested race, which Samukange says he followed with palpable anticipation.

Peggy is a profound exploration of identity, societal expectations, and personal transformation. Rooted in narratives inspired by real-life experiences of veteran women, the film was crafted to align with the festival’s central theme—She Means Business, a celebration of women and their stories. Samukange reimagined these experiences through a fictional lens, creating a compelling tale that resonated deeply with audiences.

The festival took place across two cities, first in Harare from May 30 to June 1 at the Mbare Art Space, and later in Bulawayo from June 6 to 8 at Amakhosi Theatre. It served as a vibrant platform for storytelling, showcasing a diverse range of voices with a focus on women’s empowerment.

Set against a distinctly Zimbabwean cultural backdrop, Peggy traces the emotional journey of a woman facing traditional pressures while seeking personal fulfillment. Samukange’s storytelling deftly captures the protagonist’s internal conflicts and triumphs, reflecting broader themes of freedom and identity. His direction breathes authenticity into each frame, amplifying the film’s emotional resonance.

The visual elements of Peggy add another layer of depth. Through skillful use of lighting, composition, and symbolism, the cinematography enhances the narrative’s emotional weight. This balance of narrative strength and aesthetic finesse highlights Samukange’s evolving artistry and strengthens his reputation in African cinema.

Beyond the win, Peggy is a significant contribution to Zimbabwe’s film landscape. It showcases the potential of local filmmakers to tell globally relevant stories, while also pushing for cultural introspection. Samukange’s work represents a growing movement of creatives shaping a new narrative for Zimbabwean cinema.

In a recent interview, Samukange expressed both joy and gratitude for the award. He credited his team at DreamHous Pictures Film Academy for their relentless pursuit of excellence, noting that the institution’s ninth graduation will be held on June 28 at Joina City’s Ster Kinekor in Harare. Nearly 20 students will graduate in disciplines such as scriptwriting, filming, editing, and cinematography.

“We are very happy with the standards of our students and we will continue to push them so that they match the Hollywood Academy or even supersede it,” he said.

Samukange also advocated for the expansion of film festivals across Zimbabwe, stressing the role of cinema in both entertainment and national development. According to him, festivals like the EUFILMFESTZW provide crucial platforms for emerging talent, but more events are needed to fully cultivate the industry.

Film, he noted, is more than just art—it’s an engine for job creation and gender equity. The industry offers careers in directing, writing, acting, production, and design, providing opportunities for both men and women to thrive creatively and economically.

Looking ahead, Samukange is planning to launch his own film festival. This initiative, he says, will spotlight grassroots talent and elevate Zimbabwean stories to global audiences. His praise for Angeline Cinatra, who won Best Actress for her portrayal of Peggy, reflects his commitment to nurturing talent discovered through community auditions.

“She was discovered through an open audition and her performance deserves every accolade. I hope she joins our training programme soon,” he added.

With Peggy, Jonathan Samukange has not only earned recognition but has also sparked vital conversations about identity, culture, and the power of storytelling in shaping a nation’s future.