Film Review: The Reign - Queen Modjadji
The premiere episode of "The Reign - Queen Modjadji"on DSTv on Sunday the 14th of July is a testament to the epic tale of the Balobedu first Rain Queen Maselekwane Modjadji (1800-1854), a dynasty spanning six generations before her. Produced by Duma Ndlovu, this series features a stellar cast and a dedicated crew with a profound passion for storytelling. This series has cast of a cross generational mix of experienced, well-known talent and some fresh new faces, thus opening the film and television industry for the young and upcoming creatives.
My interest in Queen Modjadji's story was sparked by the book "The Realm of a Rain-queen: A Study of the Pattern of Lovedu Society" by Eileen Krige and Jacob Daniel Krige, which inspired my 2016 exhibition at the Market Theatre, "The Heroines Of Southern Africa." This exhibition focused on 19th-century Black women political leaders, challenging the narrative of patriarchal Western history with the matriarchal traditions of African societies.
"The Reign - Queen Modjadji" continues this exploration by bringing to life the rich history of Queen Modjadji and her lineage. The series captivates with its stunning cinematography, intricate costumes, and the use of Khelobedu, the predominant language that immerses viewers in the cultural and historical context of the Balobedu people.
The first episode features poignant scenes where King of Kharanga Kingdom, Mambo Mugodo, portrayed by Thabo Bopape, driven by ancestral dreams and the guidance of spiritual leaders like Mphabantshi (played by Moses Rasekele), makes the heartbreaking decision to sacrifice his sons to pave the way for his daughter to inherit the throne. This portrayal underscores the deep spiritual and cultural significance embedded in the succession rituals of the Balobedu.
Moreover, the series highlights the ancient African science of water divination, showcasing the kingdom's ability to find water underground amidst severe drought—a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of African civilizations.
The series handles sensitive moments with profound respect, as seen in the carefully suggested intimacy scene between Mambo Mugodo and his daughter Dzugudini, played by a new rising star in theatre and television Masutang Hope Rasekele. This scene tastefully emphasizes the familial bond and the weight of responsibility within the royal lineage.
Dzugudini emerges as a pivotal figure in Lovedu history, pivotal in saving the kingdom from a devastating drought, showcasing her strength and leadership in times of crisis.
"The Reign - Queen Modjadji" is not just a historical drama but a celebration of African heritage and female leadership. It sets a high standard for storytelling, blending historical accuracy with cultural reverence and entertainment, making it essential viewing for those eager to uncover the untold stories of our past. Here is to the most joyful episodes of this incredible series.
Chepape Makgato is an independent visual artist, theatre producer, arts writer, educator, curator, and researcher. He is the founder and creative director of Samanthole Institute of Creative Arts which leads tge Art Focus of Univeristy of Limpopo's FNB Incubation Program. Chepape is a Chief Curator of William Humphreys Art Gallery, in Kimberley, Northern Cape. He holds a Master's Degree in Fine Art from the University of the Witwatersrand and has exhibited his work locally and internationally. He is currently a PhD candidate in the Art and Music Department at the University of South Africa. He is a deputy chairperson of South African Museums Association Central (Free State and Northern Cape provinces). He serves on the panel of Acquisition Committee of ArtBank South Africa. He is the the chief patron of Khehla Chepape Makgato Youth Libraries.
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