Bongeziwe Mabandla speaks to his inner child

Helmed by Darling Films' Zee Ntuli, this dark and intriguing music video for South African musician Bongeziwe Mabandla’s new track follows the artist as he grapples with his past trauma and self-destructive habits. 

Umntwana Ongaphakathi (The Child Inside), immerses us in a tale of self-discovery and healing, chronicling the poignant journey of the lead character, Khumbula, played by Mabandla himself, . 

The story, which echoes a psychotherapeutic exercise that promotes healing through dialogue with one's inner child, sees the artist conflicted between caring for his childhood self, who appears by his side throughout the film, and engaging in unhealthy habits to cope with his emotional pain. 

Stunningly visualised through Ntuli’s intimate direction, technical filmmaking and use of moving, symbolic imagery, their heart-rending dance takes us through their shared darkest moments, ultimately leading to a cathartic and therapeutic reconciliation.