Details
In Zimbabwe in 2009, a story of heroic proportions began to unfold. Under the stranglehold of Mugabe's dictatorship two men from opposing sides were given a herculean task - to form a new democratic constitution for their embattled country.
Director Camilla Neilsson gained astonishing access to follow these radically opposed men in the three year process. The result is a film of high drama, fortitude, violence and ultimate transformation.
Paul Mangwana, from Robert Mugabe’s ZANU-PF and Douglas Mwonzora, from the opposition party MDC are charged with shaping a new constitution. Diametrically opposed, their relationship often seems to mimic that of their parties but they must work together if they are to create any real, lasting change. It is the personal battle between the pair that becomes the backbone of the film. Each man’s desire to see the job through is tested to the absolute limit despite Mugabe’s enforcers attempts time and again to exert control over the process.
Democrats highlights the power of grass roots relationships despite the extraordinary and corrupt political game being played out. The gripping final moments unfold in a way that neither the director nor her main subjects could ever have foreseen.