Appearing
on the current Durban International Film Festival is Salma directed by Kim Longinotto. (Review by Pranesh
Maharaj)
The
director’s accolades are impressive and so my expectations were high. I can see
that there is a motive behind the way she chose to present this work but that
is all the value I am able to give it. It started with poor shooting. I was looking
around the room for a tripod to hand the cinematographer; there had to be
enough reason for shaky shots. I didn’t find any reason. There is definitely a
story in Salma the poet; but the director could not find it or could not decide
on it. It comes across as if she didn’t have a plan. As I watched, it became
more and more apparent that she was trying to tread safely around subject
matters that might offend some. This, in my opinion, has cost her integrity in
her work.
The most
engaging moment for me was when Salma’s sister’s son is shown imparting his
illogical ideals on his mother; then learning that Salma’s sons don’t share in
her progressive thinking. It was touching to hear Salma recite one of her
poems.
The film
lacked structure. The sound was not good and complimented the callous
cinematography. It seemed that Kim tried to oversell the ‘Being locked up for
25 years’ angle but failed to substantiate it. I was only able to collect nine
solid years of detention. Yet even that was not sufficiently supported;
visually at the least. The director had 90 minutes of the audience’s attention
in order to substantiate everything she presented, but alas; not even the words
‘locked up’ could be confirmed.
Kim
Longinotto had taken on the great responsibility to tell someone’s story; but
she did not fulfil that task adequately. I tried to blame some of the shortcomings
on poor translation in the subtitles; but again, whose responsibility is it?
It was
good to learn who Salma is. I would make it a point to go and look up some of
her work. I wouldn’t say the same for Kim.
Salma
will have one
further showing tomorrow (Wednesday, July 24) at Ekhaya Multi-Arts Centre in
KwaMashu at 14h00.
Tickets
for DIFF are through the respective venues and prices range from R25 to R35
(R50 for 3D screenings), except at Luthuli Museum, Blue Waters, Ekhaya and Bay
of Plenty lawns, which are free of charge.
Programme
booklets with the full screening schedule and synopses of all the films are
available free at cinemas, and other public information outlets. Full festival
details can also be found on www.durbanfilmfest.co.za
or by calling 031 260 2506. - Pranesh Maharaj
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