Narrative Reel

Documentary Reel

Dressed Like Kings presents a compelling glimpse into a South African sub-culture unknown to most Westerners– oswenka (to swank); a tradition where men don their finest apparel for the weekly title of “Best Dressed” and a greater sense of self-worth. The stories of fellow oswenkas–Simon Khoza, Adolphus Mbuyisa, and Bhekiznzo Buthelezi– will reveal the mystique of swanking, explore the origins of this fifty-year old tradition within the Zulu culture, and highlight the extent the participants will go to feel good about themselves. We soon discover that this self-love is threatened by exuberant prices, dying interest, and a new generation who would rather sport jeans and a T-shirt. Lastly, “Dressed Like Kings” questions whether this expression of self-love is worth the price.