THE Namibian documentary ‘Waterberg to Waterberg: In The Footsteps of Samuel Maharero’ will be screened tonight at Fresh ’n Wild in Windhoek at 19h30.
Directed and produced by Andrew Botelle, the historical documentary tells the story of Samuel Maharero’s life after the battle of the Waterberg in 1904. Maharero is a well known revolutionary leader in Namibia’s history, and along with his comrades, he managed to escape the pursuit by the German army into the ‘waterless sands’ of the Kalahari Desert.
Through numerous interviews with Herero elders living inside and outside Namibia, as well as colonial reports, archive films and original photos, a part of the country’s history is pieced together and retold in an emotionally stimulating set-up. “It’s an honest film that does not shy away from history,” Botelle said.
The 61-minute long film stars Kambausuka Tjivau, Ratanauka Hengura, Unotjari Katjimune and Kaitjindire Tjeriye among a cast list of 17, and is told in Otjiherero and English with English subtitles.
“Re-living this intense history and the continuous jostling of perspectives has been the glue that has created much respect and affection, based on our times filming across the Kalahari. It was not easy trying to find the centre of the historical truth…what really happened? Because a history built on war, nay, on genocide, is understandably, extremely emotive.” Botelle explained.
The movie will compete for the Audience Choice Award for the Namibian Theatre and Film Awards, which takes place on 25 October. Tickets cost N$30 and the film will be available for purchase on DVD for N$200 on request.
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