Zimpapers Logo

“Oly Ible” producer Jasper Mandizera (left) and one of the actresses, Lurdes Moura during the set

Tafadzwa Zimoyo : Arts Reporter

Chitungwiza-based film and movie producer Jasper Mandizera has defended his pilot film for “Oly Ible” which was premièred last weekend at the National Gallery. The film pilot which stars Tendai Maduwa, Fungai Matsika, Cleopatra Mashambanhaka, Phebion Garamumhango and Lourdes Moura among others was criticised by some saying it is a satanic film after they removed letters “H” and “B” on its title. It was directed and written by Jasper Mandizera while canvas painting which were also unveiled at the première were done by Karen Macbirds.Simon Itayi Mungazi is the director of photography.

In an interview with producer Mandizera said the movie is Christian-based and people should allow room for creativity.

“I think people are rushing to conclusion before viewing the product. It is just a name and we are entitled to name it what we want. They should sit down with the director and producer to check the script. I am from a Christian background, my father and my brothers are pastors. I am surprised with some labelling my title satanic, just because I had covered the Bible on the poster,” he said.

Mandizera said “Oly Ible” is an epic feature film.

“It was based in the future with the world rethinking of what they could have done today to make it a better place.

“The people later discovered the Bible but with the letters missing that is how I named it. It includes various tribes from different countries such as Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, India and Zimbabwe” he said.

Asked when the final project would be completed, he said it would be out next year.

“This was a pilot to raise funds. We will commence shooting after having funds and I hope the final film will be out by June next year. However, the actors are not on full contract yet and so we might change some of them because this is a pilot project,” he said.

The producer said the première was a fundraising event.

“I am happy with the turnout. We got some good response from different sponsors. We even got some people buying our paintings while some placed orders. The film will be screened locally and regionally,” he said.

He said the film was shot in high definition with Karen Macbird as the costume designer while Brighton Gozho as the casting director. The red carpet event saw prolific motivational speaker Dr Charlton Tsodzo as guest of honour among other film directors and producers present.