The representation of women in selected Ugandan Films: prioritising the positive category

Abstract

The depiction of women in film has been an area of concern to various researchers across the globe. Demeaning and complimentary images have been discussed, but this has been done by prioritizing one side over another by a particular scholar. The demeaning side has been studied more because it has always surfaced in film despite the changing trends in gender roles. This dissertation investigates how five Ugandan films, namely, Ngudde mu Nsobi, Super Glue, Omukyala (Struggle of a Mother), Zalwango, and Struggle portray the different categories of a woman. To stand better chances of analysing the different categories of women represented in selected films, this study has employed the post-structural feminism theory which gives a great understanding of gender, power and discourse. The objective of analysing the representation of various categories of women in Ugandan film. The findings of the study highlight clear depictions of women in Ugandan film showing their roles, how they are perceived by society and what they actually are, considering the drastic changes in their lives. The research has also explained the justifications for the different categories of women in film. The study recommends more involvement of women in film making since this will give them chance to better their representation. Film makers are called upon to make further research into the changing trends of women’s lives in contemporary society to sincerely reflect them in film. Also, Ugandan film makers are advised to borrow a leaf from international film makers who are now giving women a better representation in their films. Films should base on the true happenings of women in society in order to present them rightly.