IN DARKEST SWAZILAND
This film is held by the BFI (ID: 18861).
Synopsis
ETHNOLOGY. Some of the customs of the Swazi.
"Killing the bull" ceremony for rain. The old warriors of the tribe dance and chant inside the cattle kraal watched by young women (24-82); the young warriors dance in front of the young King's hut (89-96); each young warrior brings an offering to the bull (102-126); they divest themselves of all weapons and garments, except a loin cloth and prepare to catch the bull (136-148); the bull, which has escaped from the kraal is dragged back (155-195). (The rest of the ceremony was not filmed owing to its cruelty). Some youngsters play at the ceremony with a young calf (229). The "Full Moon Dance". A warrior prepares for the dance (243-276); a smoke signal is sent up calling all natives to the kraal (283-290); natives arriving (292-301); the Queen (Labotsibeni?) driving up in state in a horse-drawn carriage (305-311); more arrivals (355). The warriors arrange themselves in formation and await the arrival of the young King of Swaziland (362-365); MCS the King - Sobhuza I? (370-379) is greeted by the people (411). The dance in progress (413-426) watched by the Queen and H.M. Resident Commissioner - Sir George Honey (435-443). The film closes with shots of a young native in a straw hat eating (452 ft).