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Neria is a 1991 Zimbabwean drama film directed by Godwin Mawuru, produced by Tunde Kelani, and starring Jesesi Mungoshi, Dominic Kanaventi, and Violet Ndlovu. Set in Zimbabwe during the post-colonial era, the film focuses on the titular character, Neria, a young woman who loses her husband, Shoga, to a fatal accident. In the patriarchal society of Zimbabwe, Neria is left to face a myriad of challenges as a widow, including social and economic discrimination, and traditional family practices that threaten to take away her rights and property.

The film opens with Neria (Jesesi Mungoshi) and her husband, Shoga (Dominic Kanaventi), enjoying a peaceful evening in their home. Suddenly, Shoga receives a phone call informing him that his boss has died in a car accident, and he has been appointed the new manager of the company. In a moment of sheer elation, Shoga promises Neria a better life, but little do they know that this new job will soon bring about their downfall.

Shoga dies while on the job, leaving behind his wife and her young son, Tonderai (Pindai Sithole). Neria is devastated at the news of her husband's passing and is confronted with the reality of raising her son on her own without any financial support. With no money to pay for Shoga's funeral, Neria turns to her brother-in-law, Phineas (Simon Shumba), for help. Phineas, however, insists that Neria pays the entire cost of the funeral, as he believes that the family's property belongs to him since he was Shoga's brother.

After struggling to pay for the funeral, Neria returns home to find that Phineas has taken over her home and has taken away her property. Fueled by anger and bitterness, Neria embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, as she fights against traditional patriarchal practices and stereotypes that limit women's access to property and inheritance.

Throughout the film, Neria's resilience and determination are put to the test as she battles against the odds, with a society that is hostile towards women who refuse to conform to traditional gender roles. Her fight for justice takes her to court, where she engages a female lawyer who helps her challenge the legality of male-only inheritance practices.

The cast of the movie is exceptional, with Jesesi Mungoshi giving an outstanding performance as Neria, conveying her character's emotions and struggles with authenticity and nuance. Dominic Kanaventi, who plays Shoga, presents a believable portrayal of a hardworking man who wants to provide for his family, while Violet Ndlovu brings humor and lightness to her role as Neria's best friend, played by the name Joyce.

The cinematography captures the beauty of Zimbabwe's landscape, with stunning scenes that evoke emotion and empathy. The music in the movie, composed by Thomas Mapfumo and The Blacks Unlimited, is a blend of traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean sounds that enhance the film's storytelling and authenticity.

Neria stands out as an insightful and inspiring production that addresses gender inequalities and cultural conflicts that are still prevalent in African societies. The movie breaks down stereotypes and social norms that have continued to deny women their fundamental rights to inheritance, property, and self-esteem. It is a movie that encourages young girls and women to dream beyond their societal limitations and to fight for a future that is attainable.

In conclusion, Neria is a movie that deserves accolades for its educational, cultural, and inspirational value. With a nuanced storyline, brilliant casting, and exquisite cinematography, Neria sets a standard for African cinema; it represents the continent's diversity, culture, and struggle for justice and equality. This movie is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in African stories that break down cultural and social barriers.

Neria is a 1993 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.