The director, Michael Raeburn, a Zimbabwean who was expelled in 1970 by the colonial dictator Ian Smith for his film Rhodesia Countdown, made personal documentary Zimbabwe Countdown accusing the hero of his youth, Robert Mugabe, of betraying the ideals of the liberation war, which he spearheaded. Why does Mugabe use racist rhetoric against the British and Americans? What will be the consequences for his anti-globalization stance? While exposing Mugabe's Machiavellian tactics to preserve power, the director explores what is really at stake in Zimbabwe. The director has utilized connections with politicians both within the government and against it and with writers, artists, and journalists to procure rich insights into the crisis ravaging his country.