Film Lens
Without the King is a 2007 documentary by Michael Skolnik that examines the issues facing Swaziland, a landlocked country in southern Africa. The film features Mswati III, the king of Swaziland, and his daughter, Princess Sikhanyiso, who identifies herself as a rapper. It contrasts the daily life of the king, Africa's last absolute monarch, with the struggles of the Swazi people, particularly in relation to the high prevalence of HIV in the country.
The documentary captures the anger of the populace and presents a critical view of the monarchy's impact on the nation. It won a Special Jury Prize at the 2007 Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, indicating its recognition within the documentary film community for its portrayal of these pressing social issues.
Why Watch
- •Meet Mswati III, Africa's last absolute monarch.
- •Follow Princess Sikhanyiso, the king's rapper daughter.
- •See the realities of life in Swaziland today.
Did You Know
•Mswati III is Africa's last absolute monarch.
•The film won a Special Jury Prize at the 2007 Hot Docs Festival.
•Swaziland has a high prevalence of HIV among its population.
Perfect For
African monarchyHIV awarenessDocumentary film fans