SOUTH AFRICA: Life, Above All (Chanda's Secret)

2010/106mins/ Pedi w/English subtitles/ Dir. Oliver Schmitz
Cast: Khomotso Manyaka, Harriet Lenabe, Keaobaka Makanyane, Lerato Mvelase

An emotional and universal drama about a young girl who fights the fear and shame that have poisoned her community. The film captures the enduring strength of loyalty and a courage powered by the heart.

 Just after the death of her newly-born baby sister, Chanda, 12 years old, learns of a rumour that spreads like wildfire through her small, dust-ridden village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Sensing that the gossip stems from prejudice and superstition, Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother and the truth.

Based on the international award-winning and best-selling novel Chanda’s Secrets by Allan Stratton.