Feature Film on Infidelity on the cards

Lazarus Sauti

Chameleons are very interesting animals since they have different features that adapt to where they live. For example, chameleons’ eyes are independent so that they can move them to any direction. This adaptation can help them to see what is going on around them and it can also help them to look out for predators, because they cannot run very fast.

A new feature film titled Chameleon and premised on the above characteristics is on the cards. The feature film was written and directed by Tapfumanei Chimboora and if all goes well, it will be unveiled soon after this year’s Zimbabwe Agricultural Show.

Chimboora says the film is all about infidelity which refers to breaking a promise to remain faithful to a sexual partner. The promise can take a form of a marriage vow. As unthinkable as the notion of breaking such bonds may be, Chimboora says, “Infidelity is common – and when it does happen, it raises thorny and painful questions. Should you stay? Can trust be rebuilt? Can you and should you forgive and move on?”

He goes on to say: “The feature film is centred on various issues that try to examine betrayal, unfaithfulness, and infidelity in families, among other issues that affect society at large. “The purpose in life of this film is to therefore to expose social ills that are ravaging our societies like cancer.”

People should never judge a book by its cover. Chimboora thus adds: “We are telling people never to judge a person by just setting his or her eyes on him or her. In short, a person is not judged by his or her outer appearance.”

One of the most serious issues confronting marriage in society today is the very high incidence of infidelity. The problems that can result from infidelity include unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, abortion, divorce, violence, damaged reputation and depression.

Chimboora notes, “Unfortunately, most people who stray never think about these things, think these things will never happen to them, or underestimate the impact on their lives.”

The one hour and thirty minutes film features Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation SpotFM producer and presenter Tafadzwa Bvocheko who plays the role of Mr James’ second wife, afro jazz musician and guitarist Pablo Nakappa who stars as Mr James and vocalist Tendazvaitwa ‘Lipsy’’ Chitimbe. The film also features Getrude Jaricha (DJ SpotFM), Elizabeth Gulugulu (actress), Norman Muvavarirwa (journalist), two university graduates and a form one student (Chelsea Hughes).

Chimboora believes the film is going to serve it purpose. The purpose is to educate and inform people to desist from infidelity. He said besides building a marriage around commitment, communication, unselfishness and personal development, there are some practical steps that a married couple should take to lessen the chance of a serious mistake.

In his words, “To prevent infidelity, neither spouse should have friends of the opposite sex that are not shared; neither should spend time alone with members of the opposite sex; neither should discuss intimate issues with non-family members of the opposite sex; and neither should go to bars, clubs, etc. alone or with single friends.” The film advises spouses never to tempt fate by putting themselves in a situation that could lead to trouble.

The script writer believes Chameleon is going to effectively play a vital role in shaping the society by exposing the dangers of infidelity. Chimboora said the love triangle feature film which is written in Shona and English will also make its debut at the forthcoming International Images Film Festival for Women.