The Tribune

By KORTNEY RODGERS

NZURI, a Bahamian film created by a husband and wife team to bring awareness of domestic violence abuse occurring in the country, presented a harsh storyline while providing the audience with comedy, action and suspense at its premiere at Galleria Cinemas JFK last Thursday.

“Over the years we have gained faithful supporters who believe in the vision of Regal Shine Filmz, and we’re grateful for all of the encouragement they have given us by the support they’ve displayed,” said Valerine ‘Lily’ Ewing, writer of the movies produced by Regal Shine.

“The premiere was important to my husband and I because we wanted to raise awareness about domestic violence and send a message of hope to all victims. Often times battered victims are imprisoned to silence. It felt like our duty to give them a voice so that others may have a vivid picture of what storms these victims unnecessarily weather at the hands of their abusers and join in the fight to end domestic violence.”

Mrs Ewing also acted in the film alongside her husband, Thriston, who is president, producer and editor of Regal Shine Filmz.

The film tells the story of a single mother, Nzuri (played by Sasha Farrington), who falls for a charming relationship motivational speaker (Mr Ewing) and is physically, sexually and emotionally abused by him after they wed. Her son is also affected by what is occurring in the home.

“Seeing myself on the big screen was breathtaking,” said Ms Farrington. “I don’t think I heard one negative word. Thriston and Lily did an amazing job and I’m just so humbled that they gave me the chance to play the main character.”

Ms Farrington, who was originally chosen to play the role of Nzuri’s sister, accredits her stellar performance to her vibrant personality and involvement in high school plays.

Prior to the film’s debut, special remarks were made by the Ewings and Athama Bowe, Chairman of The Film and Plays Control Board.

Mr Bowe praised the high quality of the film and told the audience that the Ewings definitely “rose to the occasion”. He also encouraged Bahamians to “have confidence in the artistry of your people”. Nzuri is Regal Shine’s second feature film after “Hurt People, Hurt People”. The Ewings, who were honoured by the Bahamas Film Festival by receiving the Rising Star Award, are also the makers of the hit web series, “You’re Not the Father,” and a short film called “Broken Trust”.

“The production and premiere of Nzuri differ from the previous films because we as a team have grown immensely in our craft, and it shows in the quality and content of our latest film,” Mrs Ewing said.

Regal Shine will commence its next project, “The Will,” next Spring and is expected to be released later in the summer.

Interested people can contact the organisers via email at youngtz1@msn.com and to add them on Facebook by searching “Regal Shine”. Nzuri will be shown again on October 30 at 8 pm in Galleria Cinemas JFK.