17 Jan 2021

A short feature film dubbed The Sword of Mochudi, collaboration between entertainment groups; The Dow Academy (TDA) and Ian P. Universal will be premiered on January 30 at Acacia Mall cinema in  Phakalane.

In an interview, The Dow Academy founder and director, Unity Dow revealed that The Sword of Mochudi was packed with action and educational material.

The production is a positive story meant to shed light during the 2020 lockdown.

Dow said the film, was inspired by the story of Lowe and Matsieng, the giant brothers, who according to Setswana myth, lived in the belly of earth.

“Our TDA media club, a Standard Six club that teaches students storytelling, operating cameras, led to the Matsieng story, quizzed who he was and the story behind Matsieng.

The children started to dream, imagine and explore and the idea of the film was born,” she said.

She said the film was shot at Matsieng foot print location to bolster its authenticity as much as possible.

It casted Standard 6 and Form Five students, who some were sourced as actors, camera operators, script managers, set managers, make-up artistes and costume advisers.  

Other adult participators are TDA board chair, a teacher and an Ian P. Universal representative.

She said though the project was not a commercial enterprise, they were optimistic about it being recognised for what it was and even attracting the interest of those who see the commercial potential of African stories. Ends