Chameleon
Canadian Spectrum
In Ghana, corruption abounds from top government officials to the most common of citizens. In this enviroment, investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas risks his life to get to the truth of story. His approach: name the perpetrator, shame the perpetrator, jail the perpretator. No holds barred.
Utilizing whatever means necessary, Anas and team become like the A-Team of investigative journalism in Ghana. They use surveillance technology, go undercover, put themselves in the victims’ shoes, and involve local police to apprehend the bad guys. At times, their tactics may seem unconventional and maybe too risqué. Yet they always deliver. The stories appear on national television and newspapers to the delight of many, and the chagrin of some. Some may suggest he sensationalizes the stories, but there is no denying his work is creating a shift in Ghana.
Anas has become a hero to many Ghanians because he exposes what is wrong with local society from the top down. He is also inspiring for many young citizens because of his humble beginnings. And the great part of this defender of justice story is that the public does not know what Anas looks like. Giving him almost superhero status.
Director Ryan Mullins keenly mixes footage of Anas and team at work with other footage where we see Anas being himself, speaking candidly to youth, visiting his grandmother, and planning for the future. Through his work, Anas says he is helping Ghana deal with what needs to change. His aim is not only to create change but also create dialogue. Mullins aims to give us a personal look at who Anas is, while highlighting the spy-like work he does almost daily.
Screens
Saturday, Apr 25 5:30pm, Royal Cinema
Sunday, Apr 26 4:30pm, Scotiabank Theatre 3
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