The Sunday Mail
While the local film industry might still be lagging behind in terms of matching international standards, the growth path has been positive with numerous filmmakers creating quality productions that can compete internationally. Although funding remains the major hindrance, it cannot be disputed that the pool of talent is vast. The industry has been producing actors who have attracted interest from international filmmakers.
One of the actors who has been proving to be a renowned force on the local film scene is Eddie Sandifolo. At the recently held Zimbabwe International Film Festival, the talented entertainer won an award for Best Actor for his role in the movie “Escape”. This accolade was well deserved considering the brilliance he displayed in the movie, a trait that has become the norm in any role he takes up.
Sandifolo, who was first introduced to the public in the 2004 ZTV drama series “Tiriparwendo”, as the lead actor Chabvonga, has since starred in many movies and TV productions. The Sunday Mail Leisure had a chat with the actor who shed more light on his life and professional career.
Born in 1977 in Makonde, Sandifolo acquired his education at Gombo Primary School and Zimbiru High School. He said his passion for acting developed when he was still very young although he did not get any opportunities until later on in life.
“While I was growing up, all I could think of was acting. I am glad that I have managed to fulfil my childhood dream,” said Sandifolo.
“I cannot point to a certain actor as my source of inspiration but I had this drive because whenever I watched a film, I used to tell myself that I could also do that.”
His first shot in front of the camera came in 2003 for the drama series “Tiriparwendo”, earning the leading role.
“My first time on set was both exciting and scary but I guess it happens to everyone. I did well for a first timer and more opportunities started coming my way,” he narrated. The actor went on to feature in numerous other television series and movies including “Sores of Emmanuel”, “Lobola”, “Playing Warriors”, “Something Nice From London”, “Zambezi”, “Chinhoyi 7”, “Escape” and “Wenera” among others.
Whether he is acting as a sympathetic protagonist or a notorious villain, Sandifolo has managed to excel in all the roles he has taken up.
“I think I can take up any role, I don’t really mind trying out new characters because I have always seen myself as a versatile actor.
“In every film I have acted in, I give it my all and work hard for every role, which is why it would be difficult for me to pick out which part I like the most.”
The actor has been expanding his territory in the sector by also handling business behind the camera as a producer, director and casting. While he desires to become a full time actor, at the moment Sandifolo is doing electronics. When he is not working, he passes on his time watching movies with his family.
“I enjoy watching movies during my spare time because that is where I pick up a few tricks since I didn’t go to film school or anything of that sort.
“As a big movie fan I would say ‘Django Unchained’, is my favourite movie and my favourite actor is John Malkovich.”
Winning a ZIFFT award came as a surprise to the actor who has missed out on many occasions to collect accolades.
“This is my first award in so many years and I feel grateful because I was getting tired of people asking me why I was not winning any awards. This award is for my fans and I just want them to know that there are a lot more awards where this one came from.”
He also commented on the local film industry, encouraging investments in the sector.
“It is very difficult to get funding for films and I think it’s high time Government and corporates take film seriously and understand that film is not just entertainment but also a business.
“A good film comes from the value you put in the production and the lack of funding is the reason why our industry has been lagging behind. We have so much talent in Zimbabwe but it is not visible because we are not being supported.”
Sandifolo is married and the couple is blessed with two daughters, Kelly who is 15 and Kendra who is eight years old.
