I Am Not a Witch

I Am Not a Witch, a 2017 film by the Welsh-Zambian filmmaker Rungano Nyoni, is an audaciously original and deeply poignant movie that brings us face to face with complex issues, including misogyny, exploitation, and superstition, in a tribal community in Zambia. The lead cast includes the compelling young actor, Maggie Mulubwa, the seasoned Henry B.J. Phiri, and the bravura Nancy Murilo. Through a compelling narrative employing elements of satire and magical surrealism, the film presents a unique commentary on the plight of marginalized women in traditional African societies.

I Am Not a Witch opens with the arresting and beautiful visuals of Zambia’s rustic landscape, affording viewers a mesmerizing view of the people and the culture. The story revolves around the life of a young girl named Shula, played by the terrific newcomer Maggie Mulubwa, whose quiet intensity and minimalistic expressions steal the show.

The plot unwraps when Shula is accused of witchcraft after a trivial incident in her village. Without any trial, Shula is quickly pronounced guilty, and she is taken to a government-run camp - a sort of penitentiary for witch-accused women, where she’s marked as state property. Here, Shula comes face to face with women forced into labor under the conditions legitimized by superstitions. The quietly resilient Shula soon becomes the point of interest for the government official Mr. Banda, played by Henry B.J. Phiri, who tries to exploit her alleged powers for personal gain.

One striking feature of the movie is the ironic and absurd use of the term "witch." Nyoni masterfully appropriates this term, trapping the accused women with ribbons extending from their back that ostensibly keep their powers in check. This symbolism plays into the narrative's critique of the societal chains that restrain and control women, even in the name of their own protection.

The film delicately explores Shula’s journey from being a quiet village girl into becoming a government-owned ‘witch’, and her subsequent experiences, creating an image of an innocent child trapped in a world ignorant of its own absurdity. The story oscillates between heart-wrenching drama and satirical humor, with the director striking a keen balance between both. The compelling storyline effectively underscores a strong critique against society's twisted prejudices and an unflinching examination of human rights abuses, particularly against women and children.

I Am Not a Witch serves as a powerful debut film for director Rungano Nyoni, whose distinctive vision, layered narrative structure, and brilliant knack for satire stand out. The film beautifully contrasts traditional beliefs against modern exploitation in a society trying to preserve its customs. Furthermore, images of the stunning Zambian landscape in cinematographer David Gallego's lens only underscores the director's unique storytelling perspective.

Nyoni's deep description of each character makes them come alive on the silver screen. Maggie Mulubwa's portrayal of Shula is powerful and hard-hitting. Her silent resilience and confusion of being treated differently act as a mirror to the society that labels and treats her as an outsider. Henry B.J. Phiri's portrayal of the calculating and self-centered government official Mr. Banda is equally appreciable. Nancy Murilo though in a secondary role, is effective and expressive in portraying the plight and domestication of women labeled as witches.

This film is a contradictory yet profoundly effective mix of stark realism and stark surrealism. I Am Not a Witch uses the medium of film to explore social issues with a depth that is both intellectually and emotionally resonant. On the one hand, it offers an in-depth exploration of a particular cultural belief system rooted in superstition. On the other, it uncovers the exploitation and marginalization that comes alongside commercial tourism and modern bureaucracy.

In conclusion, I Am Not a Witch is a deeply stirring, visually captivating, and thought-provoking film that cannot be missed. Its powerful narrative and commentary on the mishandling of power, gender inequality, and misguided societal norms guaranteed to leave viewers intrigued and wide-eyed.