Echo Chamber - 27th DWFLA Interview: In Conversation With Tendayi Nyeke about 'Burns and Song'

'Burns and Song' is a TV pilot written & directed by Tendayi Nyeke.

SYNOPSIS
Housewife Risimu (Simu for short) (Fulu Mugovhani) is the perfect housewife to Tendero (Baxo Mfidi) and a doting mother to Nicole (Mongi Majola). Her life appears perfect and tranquil, but Simu runs from a dark past. One chaotic morning ignites a vengeful spirit, NGOZI. Ngozi warns Simu that her life will crumble if she doesn’t repay the debt she owes by Nicole’s 13th birthday. Simu endures tests and temptations that threaten to ruin her carefully crafted life. She must find a way to turn her destructive streak into a force that will help her build anew, or everything she loves will become ash.

CONVERSATION
A really great part of these interactions, is getting to speak to people from many different backgrounds, and an array of countries.

So when Kelli McNeil-Yellen told me about Tendayi Nyeke, a talented Zimbabwean filmmaker from South Africa, who had a new project, I was intrigued to check it out.

Storytelling and the way things are framed can be very different depending on where they hail from, but themes are universal. Tendayi has weaved a powerful story for 'Burns and Song' which serves as a TV pilot. It channels love, fear, anxiety, suppression of self, and what's really interesting, she uses African folklore, myth and legend as a supporting character!

We were able to talk about these themes, about the nuances of storytelling, and the power of sharing culture. As things are only different because the framing point is unfamiliar.

Tendayi talks about growing up in Zimbabwe, moving to South Africa, and the transition to LA, how these experiences have impacted her art and desire to tell stories from her perspective.

We touch on religion, diversity and how communities can empower us to succeed! This was a phenomenal interchange of ideas & experiences, that I know you will enjoy, nearly as much as Tendayi's pilot!!!

Follow the film's (@burnsandsong), and Tendayi's (@tendiextravagant) Instagram pages to keep up-to-date with future happenings.

Watch the 'Burns and Song' review, Here:    • Echo Chamber - 27th DWFLA Review: Bur...  

Hear the full episode, learn more about the film, and find all the links here: https://www.podcaphilia.com/film-fest...

Remember to check out the rest of our coverage of the 2024 LA edition of 'Dances With Films' Festival, and let us know what you think!