Ep 109: Camilla Nielsson on her documentary President & the fight for democracy in Zimbabwe

President is a new, Oscar-shortlisted feature documentary examining the controversial 2018 presidential election in Zimbabwe through stunningly close access. It’s raw, it's gripping, it’s history in the making and it’s a real story that other nations can witness and learn from.

In this episode, Anna unpacks the riveting documentary with its director, Camilla Nielsson. First up, Camilla discusses President as a sequel to her film Democrats, and touches on some of her experiences during the three years of filming. Camilla opens up about the brutal reality and traumatic nature of being caught up in gunfire. She also discusses how Zimbabwean politics affect the women of the nation, and can subject them to violence if they attempt to speak out.

Next, Anna is joined by film producer Signe Byrge Sørensen, who co-founded Final Cut for Real, the production company behind the film. Signe talks about the most rewarding parts of making this film and gives advice to female filmmakers and producers around the world. Speaking to Anna alongside Signe is Equity, Inclusion and Diversity consult Patricia Chinyoka, who also founded Women of Zimbabwe, which supports female-led projects in the country. Patricia shares her thoughts on the film and her experience of watching it at the premiere and witnessing the reactions of others. Signe and Patricia then talk about the latest political developments in Zimbabwe.

President is available to watch now in UK cinemas and on BBC Storyville from 10pm GMT on the 9th Feb 2022.

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Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith. Executive producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio producer: Cam Griff. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants. This episode was produced in partnership with Final Cut for Real.