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I had the absolute joy of attending the World Premiere of the short film RISE at the world-famous Tribeca Film Festival!
Inspired by the life of Tobias Mupfuti, RISE is written and directed by Jessica J Rowlands, executive produced by ZimExcellence fave Joe Njagu, and stars the ever-charismatic Tongayi Chirisa alongside breakout star Sikhanyiso Ngwenya.
In this episode, I share my reflections from the screening, thoughts on the film, and the significance of this milestone for both Zimbabwean and African cinema. From a community celebration in NYC to witnessing the rise of a young star. Tune in to hear why this film made me laugh, almost cry, and feel proud.
🎧🎙️ Up next: I will share initial reactions from the audience and behind-the-scenes conversations with the creative team!
For more information:
Website: https://risezimbabwe.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rise.zimbabwe
Cast & Credits
Directed and Written by Jessica J. Rowlands
Producer
Joe Njagu
Cinematographer
Jacques Naudé
Composer
Max Uldahl
Editor
Paul Watts, Roman Kuznets
Executive Producer
Tobias Mupfuti, Tongayi Chirisa, Elizabeth Morse Gilcreast, Barbara Lettieri, Juliette Duran
Key Production Team
Joe Njagu, Nakai Matema, Leonard Matsa, Philip Marumha, Taurai Kawara, Wilson Biswell
Camera/Lighting Team
Jacques Naudé, Diogo Domingues, Farai Chimombe, Gregory Shambare, Nigel Ncube
Art Department & Sound
Mmeli Mabhikwa, Kelli Barker, Kundai Mandivheyi, Chelsea Mangwiro, Kuda Sombi, Simon
Original Vocals & Music
Hope Masike, Tawanda T Maoneni, Mokoomba, David HD Hondoyedzomba, Leo Magozz, Jah
Cast
Tongayi Chirisa, Sikhanyiso Ngwenya, Edmet Dube, Kelvin Taliana, Cilemeko Tickey Mudenda, Charles Ndlovu, Prudence Mubaiwa, Samson Mdimba, Phineas Makuvaza, Tobias Mupfuti
Contacts
International Sales + US Contact
Jessica Rowlands
Rise Zimbabwe Ltd
Victoria Falls, 263
Phone: +447956619515
jessicajrowlands@gmail.com
Press Contact
Jessica Rowlands
Rise Zimbabwe Ltd
Victoria Falls, 263
Phone: +447956619515
jessicajrowlands@gmail.com
#ZimExcellence #RISEFilm #Tribeca2025 #ZimbabweToTheWorld
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