Impressive patronage at ‘Fatsani’ movie premiere
By Chris Loka, contributor:
The long waited film – Fatsani: A Tale of Survival finally premiered on Friday at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe attracting a good patronage.
Having released two trailers that won the hearts of many people, organisers made sure people sampled the movie which tackles key issues affecting the society.
Minister of Youth and Sports Ulemu Msungama and United Democratic Front (UDF) leader Atupele Muluzi were some of the high-profile people that attended the premiere.
The others included Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani, Member of Parliament Mark Katsonga and British High Commissioner David Beers.
Msungama and Muluzi hailed HD Plus and team for the film which was premiered in a drive in style, the first of its kind in the history of cinema in the country.
Msungama said his ministry is geared to support the creative industry saying he believes that the arts sector has the potential to help in creating employment.
“I have watched the whole movie and I am impressed with the quality and also the fact that the movie is addressing various issues affecting our nation,” Msungama said.
He said his ministry will continue to give support to young people adding that movies on the ground means more jobs for young people.
Muluzi who donated K500,000 to the organisers, commended producers for a quality film.
“The story of Fatsani is a Malawian story that many Malawian girls have experienced and continue to experience. These are the issues that players in sectors like arts need to tackle and bring to light,” the UDF leader said.
One of the patrons Audrey Binauli, also said the film is world-class and that it will sell the country to the world as far as filmmaking is concerned.
Director of the movie Gift Sukez Sukali said he was speechless with the patronage and support they have received.
“We didn’t see this audience showing up. We are thankful for the support and this has motivated us to do more,” Sukez said.
He said they want to take the film beyond borders and that they are targeting international festivals.
The movie delves into a story of a young girl who is forced to sell bananas in the streets for survival.
The key characters in the film are two young people, Fatsani and Chikondi, who face the harsh reality of survival through child labour.
Some of the renowned actors starring in the film include Joyce Mhango Chavula and Edwin Chonde.
