In the Shadow of the Sun

Synopsis: In Tanzania, witch doctors are spreading a belief that the body parts of albino people will bring wealth and good fortune. Referred to as ‘White Ghosts’ and ‘Devils’ within their communities, the superstition surrounding them has grown so strong that albinos now fear for their lives.

Filmed over six years ‘In The Shadow Of The Sun’ tells the story of two albino men as they attempt to follow their dreams in the face of prejudice and fear in Tanzania.

Against the backdrop of an escalation in brutal murders of people with albinism, quietly determined 15-year-old Vedastus still dreams of completing his education. Josephat Torner has dedicated his life to campaigning against the discrimination of his people and decides to leave home and travel to confront the communities who may be hiding the murderers. If they want to achieve their aims, Josephat and Vedastus will have to overcome not only other people’s prejudice, but also their own fears. Rationality is Josephat’s shield: "We can’t be refugees in our own country just because of our colour."

Through an intimate portrait of Vedastus and Josephat, director Harry Freeland reveals a story of deep-rooted superstition, suffering and strength.
Language: English
Country: Tanzania
Year of release: 2013
Subjects: Social Studies
Keywords: religious belief and practice; Tanzania; witchcraft; albinism

Name: Dogwoof Pictures
Email: oli@dogwoofpictures.com
Web: http://www.dogwoof.com External site opens in new window
Phone: 020 7395 1217
Fax: 020 7900 3270
Address: 2nd Floor, 1A Neal’s Yard
Covent Garden
London
WC2H 9DP
Notes: Dogwoof is an independent distributor specialising in quality films from around the world that raise awareness, trigger change, and get people involved. The main focus is socially conscious films including THE AGE OF STUPID, THE END OF THE LINE, BURMA VJ and BLACK GOLD. Sale on DVD. In Autumn 2011 Dogwoof launched Popup Cinema (http://popupcinema.net/) to allow non-theatric screenings of their just-released and classic titles.

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British Universities Film & Video Council