Seeing Africa! A New Film Strand

Hyde Park Picture House are presenting the first wave of a new African film strand, supported by Leeds African Communities Trust.

African cinema has historically been excluded and underrepresented locally, nationally and internationally. This film strand aims to raise awareness of African life and culture through excellent films for the African and non-African audiences in Leeds.

Here's a review of Cook Off (2017, Zimbabwe) the first film in the series, which is being screened at Headingley HEART on 4th March at 7.30pm. The review is by Leeds writer Lucy Ndlovu.

Anesu (Tendaiishe Chitima) is a single mother living in a low-income neighbourhood in Harare. The film starts with Anesu preparing breakfast for her only child. The process of making pancakes resembles a cook off competition, tension building as the countdown begins seconds ticking 10, 9, 8 … think The Great British Bake off or the ever-popular MasterChef, only this time it’s with audience of one self-appointed judge, Anesu's son Tapiwa. She finishes on time, and Tapiwa approvingly devours the pancakes before running off to school.

Anesu is a pleasant, unassuming woman, her captivating smile and simple appearance reveals a lack of ambition, or so it seems... Apparently somewhat resigned to a life dedicated to raising her son and working as a casual worker at a local food (Sadza) kiosk, personal challenges, such as her relationship with her mother, are a persistent theme and play a critical role in film.

Though Anesu appears to be placid and unambitious, we soon discover she is a force to be reckoned with. The film weaves through African cultural themes such as the strong respect that is upheld for the older generation who are viewed as a source of wisdom. Anesu’s grandmother, Gogo, is a source of  support and unconditional love which is an integral part of Anesu’s life. It is Gogo, with the help of Tapiwa, who encourages Anesu to pursue her dream of becoming a chef by entering her into The Battle of the Chefs, a cooking competition at a local television show. 

Cook Off is devoid of the extravagance and opulence that we are used to seeing in other African films such as Nigerian (Nollywood) and South African productions, instead it is a low budget production with a slow start. Although the story is predictable, it is a human story about fighting for what is yours, self-belief, relationships and overcoming life's challenges.

Cook Off is about optimism, never giving up, a story of love, community, and breakthrough. However, in keeping with other African tales there is an undeniable moral to the story, that good will always finds a way to prevail over evil.

This film became the first to be released in Zimbabwe post-Mugabe era which lasted for nearly 40 years.
 

With over 5,000 films a year coming from the continent we are spoilt for choice, along with the rich heritage of seminal and classic cinematic work Africa has a to share. Join Hyde Park Picture House and Leeds African Communities Trust in expanding your horizons and growing your knowledge of the motherland.

This strand is curated Mosa Mpetha and the Hyde Park Picture House team, in consultation with a local African advisory group, and supported by Leeds African Communities Trust.

If you would like to be kept informed of future screenings, or get involved please email mosa@hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk.