Nelson Mandela Opens Up About Love Loss and the Struggle in New Sundance Documentary Troublemaker
The late South African leader tells his own story in rare audio recordings that reveal the personal cost behind a historic fight for freedom.
A powerful new documentary premiering at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival is offering audiences an intimate look at Nelson Mandela not just as a global icon but as a man navigating love, marriage, sacrifice, and unbreakable conviction. Troublemaker, directed by Antoine Fuqua, uses never-before-heard audio recordings Mandela made while writing his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom. Through his own voice, the film explores his political awakening, decades of imprisonment, and the deeply personal moments that shaped his life.
Below is a closer look at what the documentary reveals and why it matters now more than ever.
Mandela in His Own Words
Few leaders of the last century have left a mark as deep and far-reaching as Nelson Mandela. Born Rolihlahla Mandela in 1918, he rose from rural South Africa to become the first democratically elected president of the nation in 1994. His lifelong fight against apartheid cost him 27 years in prison, yet never broke his belief in justice, dignity, and reconciliation.
Troublemaker stands apart because it lets Mandela guide the story himself. The documentary relies heavily on audio interviews he recorded with journalist Richard Stengel while preparing his autobiography in the early 1990s. These recordings are paired with archival footage, photographs, and striking animation to bring his memories vividly to life.
Mac Maharaj, a fellow anti apartheid activist and producer on the film, adds context throughout, helping connect Mandela’s personal reflections to the larger political movement.
The Collapse of Mandela’s First Marriage
One of the most revealing parts of the documentary focuses on Mandela’s private life, particularly his first marriage to Evelyn Ntoko Mase. The two married in 1944, but their relationship began to fracture as Mandela’s political involvement deepened.
While discussing the period surrounding his lengthy treason trial, which began in 1956, Mandela reflects honestly on the strain it placed on their relationship.
“If I deal with Evelyn here, I will have to tell you our marriage really collapsed because of differences in politics. Her religion did not support political activity.”
The trial lasted four years, and although Mandela was acquitted in 1961, the emotional toll was lasting. His commitment to the struggle increasingly conflicted with family life, leading to their divorce in 1958.
Meeting Winnie Mandela During the Struggle
During that same treason trial, Mandela met the woman who would become his second wife, Winnie Madikizela Mandela. In the documentary, he recalls their first meeting with warmth and simplicity.
“I saw this woman, and I was struck by her beauty. And I took her out. And then I took her out a couple of times, and then I proposed. But it was after the divorce.”
When asked if Winnie accepted his proposal, Mandela answered with a smile in his voice. “Oh, she agreed.”
He also shares a striking memory from their wedding day involving Winnie’s father, who made it clear what kind of life she was marrying into.
“He said this is a man who is married to the struggle, and you must support him in that struggle. You must do what he is doing if your marriage is going to last.”
Winnie Mandela and a Complicated Legacy
Winnie Mandela remained fiercely politically active throughout her husband’s imprisonment. She endured repeated arrests, harassment, and long periods of separation while raising their children largely on her own.
However, the documentary does not shy away from the controversies surrounding her later years. Winnie was criticized for supporting violent tactics against Black South Africans who were seen as collaborators with the apartheid regime. These actions complicated her public image and legacy.
Nelson and Winnie Mandela divorced in 1996 after his presidency began. Mandela later married Graca Simbine in 1998, remaining with her until he died in 2013. Winnie Mandela died in 2018 at the age of 81.
Life Inside Robben Island Prison
A major portion of Troublemaker examines Mandela’s decades behind bars, particularly his time on Robben Island. After being convicted of sabotage in 1964, he was sentenced to life in prison, having already been jailed for earlier charges related to political organizing.
Mandela describes the harsh conditions in vivid detail. Prisoners were allowed just one visitor and one letter every six months with strict word limits. They worked long hours in a lime quarry under blinding sunlight, which permanently damaged Mandela’s eyesight.
Reflecting on the psychological toll of imprisonment, he says, “The authorities used the prison system to psychologically damage you.”
He was also denied permission to attend the funerals of his mother and eldest son, losses that weighed heavily on him throughout his incarceration.
From Prisoner to President
Mandela was released from prison in 1990 following sweeping political changes under President F W de Klerk. Four years later, South Africa held its first democratic elections with Mandela elected president.
The film traces this historic transition and includes footage of global figures like then Senator Joe Biden speaking out against apartheid, as well as cultural moments such as Tracy Chapman performing Talkin Bout a Revolution. Mandela fondly recalls attending her concert after his release, saying, “I have always been intrigued by that young lady, and when she came onstage I was real excited.”
Mandela served one term as president and shared the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize with de Klerk. He stepped down in 1999, leaving behind a nation forever changed.
Why Troublemaker Matters Today
Director Antoine Fuqua says the project felt especially meaningful in today’s climate. Immersing himself in Mandela’s words offered a reminder of resilience and moral courage during turbulent times.
Troublemaker premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and screened throughout January 2026. More than a biography, the documentary is a deeply human portrait of a man who gave everything to a cause and, in doing so, reshaped history.
Summary:
- Troublemaker, directed by Antoine Fuqua, premieres at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, exploring Nelson Mandela’s life in his own words.
- The documentary uses rare audio recordings Mandela made while writing his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.
- It covers Mandela’s childhood, 27 years of imprisonment, and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa.
- Mandela reflects on the collapse of his first marriage to Evelyn Ntoko Mase, citing political differences.
- The film recounts Mandela meeting his second wife, Winnie Madikizela, during his treason trial and their eventual marriage.
- Winnie Mandela remained politically active but had a controversial legacy, and the couple divorced in 1996.
- The documentary depicts harsh conditions at Robben Island, including forced labor, restricted letters, and limited visits.
- Mandela’s release in 1990 and election as South Africa’s first democratic president in 1994 are central highlights.
- The film includes global reactions to apartheid, such as Joe Biden’s speeches and Tracy Chapman’s music.
- Fuqua emphasizes Mandela’s resilience and moral courage as a timeless inspiration.
