On Thursday, February 5th, The Bozeman Doc Series will present the Montana premiere of Shield and Spear.

In the changing political climate of South Africa a revolution is taking place as artists, musicians and designers tackle issues of politics, race and history. This newest film by director Petter Ringbom follows some of the most recognized artists in South Africa today, exploring what it means to live and work in the new democracy. Artist Brett Murray’s painted caricature of South African president Jacob Zuma results in a lawsuit and death threats. Photographer and activist Zanele Muholi’s work exposes hate crimes in the LGBT community. The Smarteez design collective creates international styles while running a free after-school program for kids. Musician Xander Ferreira of Gazelle parades on stage as a character based on an archetypal African dictator.  A vivid portrait of a country in transition, Shield and Spear presents intimate stories of the artists, art, music, identity, race and freedom of expression in South Africa 20 years into the life of a new democracy.

“Introducing outsiders to a creative scene seemingly far more vibrant than most of us realized, Petter Ringbom's Shield and Spear finds post-Apartheid South Africa brimming with art, music and activism despite widespread disappointment with those leading its government.” The Hollywood Reporter

Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the films begins at 7:00. Tickets are available at the door or before the show at Cactus Records and Movie Lovers. Tickets are also available online at www.bozemandocseries.org, where you can buy season passes and 7 film punch cards, learn more about the series, and view trailers for upcoming films. The series will continue on Thursdays through April with one screening every two weeks. The Bozeman Doc Series. Real people. Real life. Come see the world.