The lecturer also has a strong background in activism, with a passion for social justice. The documentary will highlight the tensions of his homelands, the hardships he and others face there and show them in contrast with his current lifestyle.
Action Sequences.
The opening sequence of the film will consist of archival photos or videos depicting Dr. Mhlanga's experiences in Africa. Footage taken from the interview will slowly document a mostly chronological narrative, depicting his transition from a human rights activist in Africa to an internationally renowned educator, researcher, analyst and academic. Latter sequences of the film will be more reflective and may include conflicting ideologies, new realizations or any other such conclusions. The interview will also be conducted at Dr. Mhlanga's home, therefore some B-Roll may be created through filming his possessions or through fly-on-the-wall style observation of some of the academic's activities. These can then be juxtaposed with the interview footage.
Main Character.
Dr. Mhlanga is a senior lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire, as outlined previously, who has written a large number of publications. He is the descendant of a Zulu warrior, comes from a family of academics and has direct links to royalty. The lecturer had to fight for the right to complete his education, while at University, and has survived a number of dangerous life altering events. Dr. Mhlanga stands as an example of success in the face of adversity and an advocate for political change. The African is an enigmatic and passionate individual, who has no qualms voicing his occasionally controversial opinions, with a distinct identity that sets him apart from those around him. Thus, making him the perfect candidate for a short film such as this. .
Conflict.
The main issues, as mentioned, are the views of Dr. Mhlanga and how his life has changed and developed through his experiences with the violations of human rights within the areas of Zimbabwe and South Africa.
