Directed by South African-born Craig Tanner and produced by Videovision Entertainment’s Anant Singh, The Showerhead is a film documenting the story of fearless artist Zapiro, real name Jonathan Shapiro.
The documentary set to premiere at the Durban International Film Festival, narrates Zapiro’s story from his roots as a liberation artist to his emergence as the relentless, truth-seeking political commentator we know today.
The impact and relevance of Zapiro’s work is the documentary’s focal point, highlighting how his artwork has challenged societal norms, seeking truth and justice and advocating for the freedom of expression and the greater good of the people. “Jonathan Shapiro has, over three decades, been an inspiration in his powerful vision with the pen, his satire, and his criticism of corruption and politics which has deep roots in his activism against apartheid;” said Anant.
Furthermore, it reveals how Zapiro’s work captured the essence of the many political issues that plagued the country, such as the failures of leadership, subversion of the Constitution and the rule of law, corruption, and threats to freedom of expression.
The film included interviews with a variety of people ranging from media personalities Mondli Makhanya and Anton Harber to academics, historians and artists such as Prof Ashwin Desai, Zwelinzima Vavi and Andy Mason.
“I have long admired the art, political acumen, and courage of Jonathan Shapiro. I trust that this film celebrates those qualities and his role in exposing the corruption and associated wrongdoing of those in power. My hope is that given the mounting attacks on freedom of expression, as examined in the film, and borne out by the imprisonment and murder of journalists around the world, The Showerhead will affirm the value and bravery of those who speak truth to power,” said Craig.
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