The mothers house
The mothers house is the story of a family struggling with problems that are still beeing discussed after the abolition of apartheid in South Africa. For 4 years, the life of the young Miche Moses is followed. Together with her mother, grandmother and brothers she lives in Bonteheuvel, a coloured township just outside Cape Town.
Social Interest of ‘The mothers house’
The quarrels between mother and grandmother, her mother’s HIV status and prevailing drug use among joung people ensure that Miche does not enjoy a carefree childhood. Relations in Miche’s family are very disturbed, so Miche constantly wonders if she is in her right place in Bonteheuvel with her mother and grandmother.
Historic Interest
Years after the abolition of Apartheid, the consequences of this are still clearly noticeable in South Africa. In The Mothers House this is shown. Miche lives with her family in a coloured township, belonging to Cape Town. These townships are a clear feature of apartheid.
Awards
The Mothers House has won several awards and received honorable mentions including:
- BEST DOCUMENTARY Sithengi 2005 Cape Town World Cinema Festival
- PREMIO DIOCESI at the Milan African, Asian and Latin American Film Festival 2006
- JURY’S SPECIAL MENTION at the Norwegian Film Festival 2006
- BEST DOCUMENTARY at the Zimbabwe Film Festival
- BEST FEATURE LENGTH FILM AWARD at the Play-Doc Film Festival in Tui, Spain
- BEST SOUTH AFRICAN DOCUMENTARY at the Durban International Film Festival