A new documentary could make a movie star out of an unemployed Dutch construction worker who is believed to be the reincarnation of an African tribal chief
(PRWEB) March 23, 2004--The acclaimed documentary "Togbe" has been selected for the 2004 Newport Beach Film Festival. "Togbe" will screen on April 18, 2004 at the Edwards Island Cinema 5, Newport Beach, CA . Tickets now available: www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com/
Called "one of the funniest and most moving documentaries of the year" by Filmthreat.com, "Togbe" is the real-life story of a simple man summoned to greatness, the story of a disabled Dutch construction worker who is made a king in Ghana.
In 1995, Henk Otte, 45 was on vacation visiting his wifes family in Ghana when a village elder proclaimed he was the reincarnation of a former King, his wifes grandfather. Though the enstoolment of a white unemployed European as King sparked controversy, Otte worked hand in hand with the people he represents to bring world wide attention to the village's plight. His efforts resulted in medical supplies, clothing and toys to the region.
Shot over the course of two years by filmmakers Sherman Lau and Rob Aitro, the film follows Otte as he prepares for his annual trip to Ghana. "We saw a simple man with a sedentary life transform into a celebrity leader complete with bodyguards, photographer and entourage," says co-director Lau.
"Togbe" made its U.S. premiere at the United Nations Film Society series. The film has screened at several European film festivals including the International Documentary Film Festival in Amsterdam and the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival in Greece. It has also been shown on various PBS stations.
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