Munya highest paid actor on the movie 'The Gentleman'

Munyaradzi Chidzonga

ZIMBABWE – The 2010 Big Brother Africa (BBA) finalist, Munyaradzi Chidzonga has been named as the highest paid actor in the recently premiered first Zimbabwean action drama, “The Gentleman.” Though the film producer, Rufaro Kaseke kept the amount paid to the two times reality show contender close to his chest, he however, disclosed to Shout-Africa that the movie had a total budget of US$120 000.

The total is believed to have covered all the expenses from salaries of actors and the production team, to costs of travelling and properties hired in the movie, which also featured scenes from Hillbrow in South Africa where the team spent a week shooting. However, it was rather surprising to note that of all the seasoned actors who featured in the movie, Munya populary known as the Diamond Boy received the fattest cheque.

Part of the cast included South African prominent actor Presley Chweneyagae, well known for his leading role in “Tsotsi” (Thief), Miss Malawi 2010 Faith Chibale and a surprise appearance by one of Zimbabwe’s richest business tycoons Philip Chiyangwa. Elijah Madzikatire famed for his role in the movie “Neria,” “Amakorokoza” (Panners) actress Precious Makhulumo, ex-Miss Matofotofo Sithandazile Dube, award winning musician Willis Wataffi, Patrick Mabhena (Izolo Yizolo actor), Charles Muzemba of “Estate Blues” and Tonderai Hakuna who featured alongside Munya in the satirical movie “Lobola” (Bride Price) makes up the star-studded cast.

Could Munya’s good looks and charismatic personality which proved him to be a natural on the set outmaneuvered the expertise his co-stars boast of in the film industry? The BBA finalist landed his first acting role in the hilarious local movie “Lobola” and more acting offers have been coming his way. Kaseke went on to reveal that they are working on a feature film called “Mateu” due to get into production next year and two more films later in the year funded by Chiyangwa’s production company the Film Village Limited.

“The Gentleman” is a sweeping story of love, corruption, deception and social degradation. In the movie, Munya plays the characters of twin brothers, with one staying in South Africa and the other in Zimbabwe. The film which was shot in full High Definition (HD) is also set for its international premier in Uganda, Malawi, South Africa and Australia. “The Gentleman” has already premiered in Harare and Bulawayo. (Shout-Africa)