Highbrow movie set for launch
The long-awaited 2013 Cashgate scandal inspired movie Highbrow is set for launch in August.
Based on true life events, the film will be shown on August 27 in Lilongwe and August 28 in Blantyre.
“The production team is working on the actual venues, but we can confirm the premiere dates,” said director Chaz Daddie.
In an interview, the US-based Malawian said the movie is filled with drama, action, romance and suspense.
“Highbrow chronicles the story of a young budget director of Malawi government. The position earns him many enemies and tests his relationship with his wife and friend,” said Daddie.
The director said the position brings politicians and businesspersons in the life of the budget director.
“As these want to maintain the status quo, the director is forced to make a choice of either joining or fighting them,” said Daddie.
He further said the motivation behind telling a story that chronicles the biggest exposed financial scandal in Malawi’s history was to give people relatable content.
“I wanted to use a familiar story as an inspiration. It is also entertaining to Malawians too,” explained Daddie whose real name is Chawezi Munthali.
Shooting started in 2019 with the launch initially scheduled for the following year, he said.
“Covid-19 delayed everything,” said Daddie.
The film was shot in Lilongwe which was the centre of the Cashgate scandal.
He said: “I came to Malawi to direct the film save for a few scenes that I was not able to due to Covid-19. So, I had to use a video call to direct from here.”
After the premiere, the plan is to take the film shot and edited by videographer Essim M’bwana to different film festivals.
“We are already in discussion with different major networks which I cannot mention but if all goes well, they might host the film.
“We are planning on sending the movie to more than 10 film festivals so that we expose both the product and the actors,” said Daddie.
A trailer of the film promises action packed moments as scenes give a hint of what fans should expect, thereby earning praises.
“This film looks dope. I can’t wait as it promises to be big as well,” wrote Charles Phiri on Facebook in response to a post by female artist Sangie, one of the cast members.
Other actors include Patrick Mhango, Dr. Amos Nsekandiana and Siphiwe Lino.
