Story by Farai Gwaze
AWARD-winning Hollywood producer, Terry Benedict, is exploring opportunities for film projects in Zimbabwe, with focus on promoting tourist attractions in the country.
Benedict, whose film ‘Hacksaw Ridge,’ won two Oscars, is in Harare after years researching on the untold Zimbabwean narratives.
After holding meetings with several stakeholders in Harare this weekend, Benedict highlighted areas of possible exploration to promote tourist attractions through film.
“There is a Zimbabwean story we are really interested in turning into a film and so we spent a lot of time getting to know the people and the leadership in Harare and Bulawayo. In terms of the story, we want to show the Victoria Falls, Matopos, and the Great Zimbabwe ruins, and we came here to Harare to see Honourable Scott for this medical mission and what he’s doing for the community he grew up in by giving back to the community,” he said.
There are also plans to promote sport tourism.
“We are becoming one global community, and that includes the entertainment industry. Africa, as we see it, is becoming the new frontier for telling stories globally. When I discovered the soccer story I want to tell, a Zimbabwean story, eight years ago, I knew little about Zimbabwe or Africa. But the time I’ve spent here has shown me just how many great, inspiring stories exist. The world needs to know these stories, particularly through our project, which is a mainstream film intended for global audiences,” he said.
Benedict’s vision dovetails with Zimbabwe’s new Film Strategy 2025 -2030, which prioritises international collaborations and cultural showcases.
