Shield and Spear

Aug 5 2014 Not Rated 1h 29m
Documentary, Music

In the changing political climate of South Africa a revolution is taking place as artists, musicians and designers tackle issues of politics, race and history. This newest film by director Petter Ringbom follows some of the most recognized artists in South Africa today, exploring what it means to live and work in the new democracy. Artist Brett Murray’s painted caricature of South African president Jacob Zuma results in a lawsuit and death threats. Photographer and activist Zanele Muholi’s work exposes hate crimes in the LGBT community. The Smarteez design collective creates international styles while running a free after-school program for kids. Musician Xander Ferreira of Gazelle parades on stage as a character based on an archetypal African dictator. Shield and Spear presents intimate stories about the artists, art, music, identity, race and freedom of expression in South Africa 20 years into democracy.

Plot

An artist paints a caricature of South African president Jacob Zuma that provokes a lawsuit, death threats and a massive street protest. Around this incident, Shield and Spear explores a constellation of stories about identity, art, race, and freedom of expression in South Africa, twenty years into democracy.

Written by

Petter Ringbom

Directed by

Petter Ringbom

Cast

Floyd Avenue, Charl Blignaut, Milisuthando Bongela

Crew

View crew

Production Companies

Opendox

Awards

1 nomination

Scores
# of Votes
30
Average Rating
7.7 out of 10
Metascore
NA
Popularity
NA