"I believe the ladies have explained everything. Now it's up to you, whether to be a goat or a witch. If you choose to be a goat, cut the ribbon. But, if you choose to be a witch, keep your ribbon intact. Then you'll join this witch camp."
In this episode, we delve into Rungano Nyoni’s poignant and powerful film, "I Am Not a Witch" (2017). This unique piece of cinema blends elements of magical realism and social commentary to explore themes of oppression, identity, and resistance through the eyes of an accused young girl in Zambia.
From the film's bold critique of patriarchal structures and its portrayal of the systemic subjugation of women, we explore the heartbreaking journey of the protagonist, Shula, as she navigates a world that views her as both a threat and a commodity.
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Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk
Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).
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Cover art by Kurakurakucing
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Research for this episode:
Interview with Rungano Nyoni for Get Into Film:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LE8eUU7SkWo
I AM NOT A WITCH SHOWS THE BITTER TRUTH BEHIND THE FOLKLORE - https://filmobsessive.com/film/film-analysis/film-genres/art-house/i-am-not-a-witch-shows-the-bitter-truth-behind-the-folklore/?utm_content=cmp-true
‘I Am Not a Witch’: How a Satire About Misogyny Is Transforming Zambia’s Film Industry - https://indiewire.com/features/general/i-am-not-a-witch-rungano-nyoni-interview-zambia-1201999906/
Critical Analysis of 2018 drama I am not a Witch
https://www.academia.edu/41562185/Critical_Analysis_of_2018_drama_I_am_not_a_Witch
https://www.filminquiry.com/i-am-not-a-witch-2018-review/?utm_content=cmp-true
I Am Not a Witch: The ordeal of a young African girl set against the tone of satire
https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/329162/