APPEALS TRIBUNAL RELENTS ON PUNITIVE FPB RATING OF ZAPIRO DOCUMENTARY, THE SHOWERHEAD
The Appeals Tribunal has ruled that the initial rating of 16 LNP (SV) was unwarranted, affording The Showerheada rating of 13 L (SV). This lower rating advises audiences that the film contains scenes containing strong language and references to sexual violence.
The rationale for the appeal was that the FPB does not have the power to police political criticism, and that Zapiro’s cartoons that are depicted in the film can be freely accessed on the Internet and in his books by anyone without the condition of an age restriction.
Directed by South African-born Craig Tanner and produced by Craig Tanner, and Videovision Entertainment’s, Anant Singh, The Showerhead, tells Zapiro’s story from his roots as a liberation artist and political detainee during Apartheid, to his emergence as a steadfast defender of freedom of expression, and his no-holds barred response to the current complex political climate in our democratic South Africa. The film is now scheduled for release in South Africa on Friday, 13 September.
Director, Craig Tanner stated, “We are obviously pleased that sanity has prevailed and that the Appeals Tribunal has complied with relevant guidelines in overruling the classification committee’s absurd findings and endeavour to restrict the film’s audience. That said, it is both unacceptable and ironic that a film about freedom of expression has had to contend with attempts by the state to limit the audience that might wish to consider the issues discussed in the film, and to thereby prevent many South Africans from receiving information and forming their own opinions.”
Zapiro commented, “At least the Appeals Tribunal has seen sense. Considering how often I hear from school students that my cartoons are part of their classroom learning experience, the initial rating was prudishly restrictive and an under-estimation of teenagers’ ability to understand satire and to engage with difficult issues. Viva freedom of expression!”
Producer Anant Singh said, “The initial rating by the FPB was reminiscent of apartheid-era censorship. The lower rating is a victory for freedom of expression. It is important that we are able to tell stories on film that reflects this constitutional right, and we will continue do so. Jonathan’s courage and passion for satire is an inspiration to all ages and the film needs to be seen by all.”
The Showerhead will open on Friday, 13 September at cinemas, at the Bioscope in Johannesburg, The Labia in Cape Town and Movies@ at Monte Casino, with additional screenings on Saturday, 14th September and Sunday 15th September at Rosebank Nouveau and Ster Kinekor V&A.
