GOOGLE MBIRA DOCUMENTARY

PRODUCTION COMPANY

CLIENT

WHAT

Mass Appeal were brought on board to create a short documentary film celebrating the Mbira, made in collaboration with various local partners and community members in Africa who are passionate and well-versed in the instrument. The film provides an interactive experience allowing users to learn about the Mbira’s cultural significance, how to play it, and help viewers discover this small instrument’s big story.

WHERE

Filming took place in and around Harare. Google had already brought on board US-based Mbira experts but based on our expertise on the Mbira, we added local experts and manufacturers to the ‘party’. There were logistical challenges in providing a sound recordist – we brought our own ‘expert’ from South Africa – as well as the equipment, transport and logistics.

HIGHLIGHTS

We love filming in Zimbabwe! Despite the challenges, it is a beautiful country with beautiful people. Equally, as Fixers, we LOVE challenges – and Zimbabwe provides that in buckets. Ensuring there is availability of foreign currency, fuel, water and other basic supplies is tricky in Harare. It was amazing being back there. Film Fixers also provided all equipment for the shoot, as well as brought in a Specialist Sound Recordist.