Arts Views with Thabani H Moyo
BAZUKURU Comedy Series by David Sling Film and TV resources has become Zimbabwe’s first series to make it to Amazon Prime streaming. The crew could not hide their excitement this past week as they broke the news to the world.
Written by Nkosilesisa Ncube, a holder of a Media Studies Honours degree from Midlands State University, Bazukuru plots the story of Derek, an old man whose world is turned upside down by his two grandchildren (Bazukuru).
DJ and Noxolo interact with their grandfather at the family restaurant. Derek notices how irresponsible his children are but decides to ignore it at first. When the two grandchildren move in with Derek he cannot ignore their shenanigans as they have a direct effect on his daily life.
The comedy series explores the world of transnational families where children grow without immediate parental care. When the parents are away searching for greener pastures children are left to do as they please. The sitcom highlights the issue of generational gap that is exhibited by Derek and his relationship with his grandchildren.
Derek values work and enjoying the product of his sweat. His two grandchildren are his opposite. The two will do anything to avoid work. They are comfortable in their own skins and their lives.
The cast is made up of Bulawayo’s stellar film and theatre actors and actresses. It is a mixture of experience and the young aspiring talent. Memory Kumbota plays the old man Derek and brings with him years of experience as both a film and stage actor.
Zenzo Nyathi and Percy Soko bring with them the never say die spirit that has seen them scale heights in the film industry as they are now in their prime zone. Zenzo Nyathi plays DJ while Percy Soko takes the character of Jo.
Two interesting actresses complete the key cast members in the names of Antonette Sango and Musa Sibanda. Antonette Sango is a breath of fresh air. Musa Sibanda brings with her bubbliness, beauty and talent. She lights up the screen with her smile and eyes as she switches from one emotion to the other as the sitcom unravels.
The technical team is made up of William ‘Tso’ Nyandoro, who brings with him years of experience as a director after leaving the stage. Qinisela ‘Rasqusety’ Keitse is the Director of Photography and brings with him a sharp eye for good shots. Matesu Dube is the sound guy and seems to have mastered this skill with aplomb.
Selina Moyo came in as a Production manager bringing with her a wealth of experience in the area. Cynthia Mharadze came in as a creative make-up artist. To oversee the whole production work was Kudzai Chikomo who is proving that quality film production is possible through his company Multi-media Box. He has done several films which were broadcast on DSTV.
Bazukuru is a must watch as it has a refreshing storyline and has high entertainment value. The series can be watched on Amazon Prime.
