SHAKING HANDS WITH THE DEVIL
This short documentary follows wildlife photographer and Parkinson’s sufferer David Plummer as he travels through Kenya to meet those who have been marginalised, stigmatised and persecuted for having Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson's is known for causing both physical and non-physical symptoms, and awareness about the disease globally remains low. In Africa, where resources are limited, Parkinson's is often associated with witchcraft or supernatural forces. If someone is suspected to be a witch, they are at risk of violent oppression. The film was a co-production between the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and LSVT Global.
The film was launched on BBC Breakfast in the UK, where the film's producers David Plummer and Natasha Fothergill-Misbah were interviewed. It was then released globally on the streaming service WaterBear Network, and screened at the House of Commons as part of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPGs) AGM. Alongside the release of the film we have been raising money to provide medication to those featured in the film, and campaigning for greater awareness of the disease both locally in Kenya and globally.
Director & DOP: Olz McCoy
EP & Producer: David Plummer
Producer: Natasha Fothergill-Misbah
Production Assist: Jared Okeno
Local Fixer: Southern Cross
Editor: Olz McCoy