Dance queen Busiswa’s documentary debuts at Africa Rising International Film Festival
Newton Junction Mall was buzzing with flair and style on Wednesday evening when Busiswa Gqulu debuted her documentary, titled Unbreakable Story, at the inaugural Africa Rising International Film Festival.
An #UnbreakableStory
Known on the streets as the Dance Queen, Bususwa boasts an impressive career, which includes countless global anthems, a cult-like following across the continent, tours, a handful of accolades, as well as the premier of her powerful biographical documentary.
“I hope that everyone can take something home, be inspired and be motivated,” said Busiswa.
Her majesty, as she is known to some, wants to continue to inspire people and wants to keep her optimistic character flowing.
“I am someone who is very optimistic. I’m very positive about life and I love to encourage the next person; I think that’s my purpose in life.”
The documentary is narrated by her majesty and, just like her performances, takes us through some of the breath-taking moments of her career.
Unbreakable Story takes us on a journey back in time and explores the complex conditions that thrust a modest young girl from Umtata, into the boisterous voice that reverberates through our speakers alongside Beyonce on The Gift, in arguably one of the most important moments in her modern music history.
The documentary also touches on her leaving the Kalawa Jazmee family to start her own label – Majesty Music Africa.
Her Unbreakable Story was the first documentary at this year’s Africa Rising International Film Festival, which commenced on November 27.
A CAN DO! film, directed by Fred Kayembe and Vaughn Thiel, this grungy Pineappletop Films production, produced by ‘The Kollektive’, explores modern ideas of independence, femininity and identity, through Busiswa’s remarkable story.
Other notable African films/documentaries to look forward to include;
- Zulu Love Letter. The film about Thandeka, a young journalist who lives in fear of Johannesburg‘s past. She’s so troubled that she can’t work and her relationship with Mangi, her 13-year-old deaf daughter, goes from bad to worse. The film stars veteran actress Pamela Nomvete.
- Mama Africa – A film by MIKA KAURISMÄKI. A documentary about the humanitarian and musical icon Miriam Makeba.
