President

Dir. Camilla Nielsson. 2021, 130 mins. In Shona with English subtitles. More than six years after the premiere of her widely acclaimed Democrats, Camilla Nielsson returns to Zimbabwe, which is again at a crossroads. When Mugabe was removed from power, Zimbabwean military leaders promised they would not seize control for themselves, instead ensuring democracy in a national election. In the context of an economic crisis, food shortages, and political violence, the stakes could not be higher. The new leader of the opposition party Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Alliance, the young and charismatic Nelson Chamisa, is challenging the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), which in its heyday led the decolonization struggle. Represented by acting president Emmerson Mnangagwa, ZANU-PF is determined to maintain power. Can a free, fair, and transparent election reflecting the will of the people proceed? President bears riveting witness; it’s an epic reminder that democracy won’t happen if the people don’t fight to create it.

Includes admission to Camilla Nielsson’s Democrats, screening at 1:45 p.m.

Tickets: $15 / $11 senior and students / $9 youth (ages 3–17) / free or discounted for MoMI members ($7–$11). Order tickets. Please pick up tickets at the Museum’s admissions desk upon arrival. All seating is general admission. Review safety protocols before your visit.