The Flask
Themba, a successful businessman, masks his inner turmoil with liquor, perpetuating a cycle of abuse that threatens to destroy his family. His wife, Grace, and daughter, Ava, suffer in silence. One fateful night, Themba encounters a mysterious woman at a club. She presents him with a flask, its contents shrouded in mystery. Unbeknownst to Themba, this flask holds the key to his redemption or destruction. Upon drinking from the flask, Themba plunges into a coma, suspended in a realm between reality and the afterlife. Here, he witnesses the catastrophic consequences of his actions: - His family disintegrates, fragmented by his addiction. What will his redemption be?
-
Maxwell Mutunwa MwapeDirector
-
Ivory Van DeBoomWriter
-
Juliet Mambwe MwapeProducer
-
Chichi Daisy LusumpaKey Cast"Grace"
-
Samirah Brenda ChandaKey Cast"Ava"
-
Owas Ray MwapeKey Cast"Mr Chlumba"
-
Project Type:Experimental, Feature
-
Runtime:1 hour 36 minutes 51 seconds
-
Completion Date:July 31, 2024
-
Production Budget:3,000 USD
-
Country of Origin:Zambia
-
Country of Filming:Zambia
-
Language:English
-
Shooting Format:Digital
-
Aspect Ratio:16:9
-
Film Color:Color
-
First-time Filmmaker:No
-
Student Project:No
-
Lusaka, Zambia
Zambia
December 7, 2024
Southern Africa premiere
Maxwell Mwape is a multifaceted and visionary Zambian film director, cinematographer, and actor, born in 1991 in Lusaka, Zambia. With a career spanning over a decade, Maxwell has established himself as one of the most exciting and innovative filmmakers in Africa.
Maxwell's journey in filmmaking began at the prestigious AFDA film academy, where he honed his craft in directing, cinematography, and acting. After graduating, he quickly made a name for himself in the Zambian film industry, working on numerous TV shows and films that showcased his exceptional talent.
Some of Maxwell's notable works include the critically acclaimed TV series "Zuba", "Ubuntu" (Seasons 1-4), "City on Fire", "Chokolo", "Pamaliketi" (Seasons 1&2), "Kopala", and many more. His impressive portfolio is a testament to his versatility, creativity, and dedication to his craft.
As a director, Maxwell has a unique visual style and a keen ability to bring complex stories to life. His experience has taken him to various countries, where he has worked on projects that showcase the diversity and richness of African culture.
In 2019, Maxwell directed his student feature film, which marked a significant milestone in his career. He has also directed a range of short films, further demonstrating his talent and range as a filmmaker.
At just 33 years old, Maxwell Mwape is a talent to watch. His passion for storytelling, combined with his technical skills and creative vision, make him a formidable force in the African film industry.
Follow Maxwell Mwape's journey on social
As I stand behind the lens, I am met with the weight of a thousand untold stories. The whispers of my ancestors, the struggles of my people, and the resilience of the human spirit all converge in a singular moment. It is here that I find my purpose as a filmmaker – to unearth the hidden narratives, to amplify the silenced voices, and to illuminate the complexities of the African experience.
My films are not just reflections of reality, but also instruments of transformation. I seek to challenge the status quo, to disrupt the dominant discourse, and to offer alternative perspectives on the world. Through my work, I aim to create a sense of empathy and understanding, to bridge the gaps between cultures and communities, and to inspire a new wave of critical thinking and social activism.
As a director, I am drawn to the margins, the peripheries, and the invisible spaces. I seek to center the voices of those who have been historically silenced, marginalized, or erased. My films are a testament to the power of storytelling as a tool for social change, a catalyst for personal transformation, and a celebration of the human condition in all its complexity and beauty.
In a world where the narratives of Africa are often reduced to stereotypes, tropes, and simplistic binaries, I am committed to telling stories that defy easy categorization. My films are a rejection of the single story, a celebration of diversity, and an affirmation of the multiple narratives that exist within and beyond the African continent.
Ultimately