This proposal is for a short documentary that will cover the life of Dr. Mhlanga, an academic, writer and activist, native to Zimbabwe and now resident in Britain. The film will briefly cover his life from the past and leading to the present. It will piece this together to form an explorative and stimulating narrative, encouraging viewers to overcome adversity and to engage their world with a more open-minded and active approach. Of course, many of the plans outlined in this proposal are provisional and may be subject to revision during the production and post-production process.
Working Hypothesis and Interpretation.
The film will examine the struggles encountered by Dr. Mhlanga, during his earlier life in Africa, and how he has since developed into an academic and an educator, succeeding in adverse circumstances. The documentary will have a relatively stark, almost jarring, opening with Dr. Mhlanga discussing earlier parts of his life, such as his survival through genocide, attempts on his life, and expulsion from University. This will slowly transition towards more recent events in Dr. Mhlanga's life, touching upon his current lifestyle, his personal values and his plans for the future. During this latter stage, Dr. Mhlanga's reflections on how earlier parts of his life may have altered his life choices and motivated him shall also be engaged. The working hypothesis for this film will be one of inspiration and enlightenment, portraying darker aspects of life in adjacency with success through commitment. The aim of the production will be to challenge audiences to reflect on their own lives and to question the way they conduct them. .
Topic and Exposition.
The film discusses the life of Dr. Mhlanga and covers the transition from his hardships in Africa to his current life in Britain. Dr. Mhlanga works a lecturer, researcher and writer in the field of media and politics. However, Dr. Mhlanga comes from Africa, where he completed the majority of his education.