HOUSE ARREST FILM PRODUCTION

House Arrest Film Production Background and Synopsis
Background
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly one billion people globally are living with mental health disorders, with one in four people expected to face mental illness at some point in their lifetime. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, cases of depression and catastrophic anxiety have surged by 25%, and mental disorders account for approximately 14.3% of all deaths—or about 8 million lives annually. These alarming figures underscore that mental health has become a calamitous crisis in its own right.
Mental health challenges, already a global epidemic, remain poorly understood and often stigmatized. The pandemic has further amplified these issues, particularly for vulnerable populations whose livelihoods—and mental well-being—have been severely disrupted. This urgent situation demands open dialogue about a topic many societies consider taboo.
In response to this global crisis, members of the Zimbabwean diaspora community in Botswana, many of whom have been directly or indirectly affected by mental health challenges, united to create House Arrest. Under the direction of Peter Mutanda, this grassroots film production features a largely untrained cast and crew, emphasizing authentic storytelling through lived experiences.
Synopsis
House Arrest tells the poignant story of the Ganda family, grappling with the scars of trauma, loss, and mental illness. Edmond Ganda, a recovering alcoholic, faces the legacy of his past: his late wife, Soneni, tragically ended her life after enduring years of abuse fueled by Edmond’s alcoholism. Their daughter, Chiedza, witnessed her mother’s suffering and suicide, leaving her burdened with haunting trauma that has shaped her adult life.
Struggling silently, Chiedza battles severe mental health challenges. Her stepmother, Rosemary, has become a stabilizing force for the family, while Edmond’s sister, Theresa, provides both emotional and financial support. Despite this, Chiedza withdraws into isolation, confining herself to a tiny, cluttered room. There, she becomes a prisoner of her own mind, consumed by fear and mistrust. Spending her days on an old mattress, she writes and recites poetry as an outlet, speaking to voices only she can hear. Her isolation deepens as she perceives those around her as threats, refusing to let anyone enter her space.
Through its unflinching narrative, House Arrest shines a light on the hidden struggles faced by those with mental health disorders. It challenges cultural taboos, bringing attention to the enduring stigma around these issues. At its heart, the film is a story of resilience and hope—a journey toward breaking free from mental captivity and overcoming profound struggles.
The film uses metaphorical audiovisual effects to enhance its narrative, offering an immersive experience that underscores its themes.
The primary goal of House Arrest is to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the escalating mental health crisis, while inspiring hope and encouraging individuals to seek professional help.
Written and Directed by: Peter Mutanda
Running Time: 52 minutes and 43 seconds