MARCH 2017
COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE
BOX OFFICE SUCCESS FOR
KALUSHI
LEBO M THE POWER OF MUSIC IN FILM MAKING
THANDO THABETHE TAKES ON THE MAIN STAGE AS HOST OF THE SAFTA`s 11
AN UNAPOLOGETIC TALE OF SOUTH AFRICA`S PAST AND PRESENT
AKIN OMOTOSO SOUTH AFRICA OPENS UP TO THE WORLD
> CLOSE UP:
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Content
44
09
LEGENDARY JUDGES
ABOUT THE NFVF Promoting the South African Film Industry locally and internationally. AKIN OMOTOSO South Africa opens up to the world
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SAFTA NOMINATIONS BREAKFAST The list that should make it into your little black book and seduce the cards from your wallet.
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RED CARPET HOST Somizi heats up the red carpet
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NOMINATIONS NIGHT ONE
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KALUSHI The Life Of Solomon Mahlangu
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FEATURE STORY A close up with Anant Singh
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LEBO M Music in Film
36
NOMINATIONS NIGHT TWO
42
GREAT SOUTH AFRICAN LOCATIONS Set your sights for SA
SAFTA GALA DINNER The night the stars came out to play
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5TH
REPUBLIC SAFTAs 11 is published by Izani Publishing on behalf of South African Film and Television Awards. Copyright: Izani Publishing 2017. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from Izani Media or the authors. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Izani Publishing or the editor.
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PRODUCTION TEAM PUBLISHER Izani Publishing EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN Lebo Gunguluza PUBLISHING EDITOR Lebo Mokoena PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Lebo Motsepe - Hlatshwayo CREATIVE DIRECTOR Gomotsegang Mogale EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Salome Tsoka LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS 5th Republic Media Group DISTRIBUTION InTouch Africa
NFVF TEAM CHAIRPERSON Mmabatho Ramagoshi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Zama Mkosi HEAD OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS Peter Kwele
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Publishers Notes
The South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas 11) are back again, but this time at the newly renovated Sun City, to invade the North West Province. They will bring all the stars from all over the country for a grander experience over the weekend of the 16th and 18th March 2017. We are once more honoured to be produce the SAFTAs magazine and our team of young black creatives and journalists have been hard at work to bring you a worldclass magazine. Izani Publishing is excited to be part of this exciting programme to celebrate our local and continental television and film industry, where we are able to participate in the drama and action of South Africa. Themed “SA’s Got Drama Let’s Celebrate It” could not be more befitting as we unpack all the action and the drama around the journeys of our legends and their impact on Africa and the world. We get up close and personal with Anant Singh who shares his journey in the film industry
and his work has earned him international respect. We look at Akin Omotoso on settling in SA, and how in a state of xenophobic attacks, he has retained his cool and focus on producing great movies We catch up with Mandla Dube who has created a box office hit Kalushi, that tell the story of Solomon Mahlangu, one of the great heroes during apartheid years in South Africa. On this 11th Anniversary issue we also unpack the National Video and Film Foundation, which are the custodians of the SAFTAs 11 and who have to date have created a successful journey for these awards that is memorable for South Africans. The red-carpet has become a major feature of these awards, and guests dress to the occasion to outclass each other. Our Host on the Red Carpet Somizi Mhlongo and Stoan Seate, has proven skills over and over to be the best candidate to get the best out of the red carpet experience. This year the SAFTAs will be celebrating 11 of the existence with a grand performance, coupled with the most talented host to bring life to these awards. The hosts for this year include , Thando Thabethe and Katlego, the winner of best presenter last year and who was also the trusted for two years in a row. We also have given you a sneak preview in pictures at the nominations party and the Nominations Dinner. In this issue of the SAFTAs 11 Magazine, our feature stories look at the relationship between music and the film industry, and Lebo M has been a great success in that space, as he continues to promote African music through movies in Hollywood and world. We unpack the role music plays in film-making and how he has made a success in the space. The judging of the SAFTAs remains transparent and focused, on this issue we have listed the three legenday overall judges, Jerry Mofokeng wa Makheta, Dr John Kani and Firdoze Bulbulia. Who have contributed to the final outcomes of the awards, where the judges have followed various processes and phases to choose the winners from those who have been nominated for their various categories We have listed all the nominations for the SAFTAs 11, and this issue should be a useful guide for you in navigating the programme and nominations for the awards. We have also listed all the categories for both nights to guide you as you enjoy this world class production. I hope you enjoy all that is in this issue and wish you a splendid weekend in Sun City
Lebo “Jojo” Mokoena, PublishingEditor
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 5
Chairperson’s Message
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he South African Film and Television Awards have always filled me with great excitement. The culmina¬tion of a years’ worth of excellence, hard work and dedication in film and 2 television is truly exhilarating. In the last decade these two mediums have given us great stories, exceptional performances and even an Academy Award. But what is particularly heart-warming is the growth in opportunity for female film directors and young film-mak¬ers and directors to make their mark. We, at the NFVF, strive to provide those who dream big with skills, resources and op¬portunities to realize their dreams. I would like to thank the Department of Arts and Culture, Honour¬able Minister Nathi Mthetwa and all those who work at the National Film and Television Foundation. It is only with your collective support and collaboration that we will achieve our goal of working towards a vibrant, sustainable future in film and television with increased business growth. All the nominees celebrated tonight are winners, they are the people that will continue to ensure that South Africa participates on a global level. We look forward to seeing the work they will produce in the future and to all the winners, a big and hearty congratulations. You continue to make us proud.
Mmabatho Ramagoshi Chairperson NFVF 6 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
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ast year we celebrated a decade of the South African Film and Television Awards, the year on year growth has been instrumental and we look forward to ushering in another decade of excellence. With the awards being in their 11th year of celebrating growth, excellence and talent the theme for the 11th annual SAFTAs is “SA’s got it – let’s Celebrate it” which is a well-suited vision of looking towards setting higher goals for the South African film and television
industry. The objective for each year to improve the awards towards creating a world class award ceremony. This year, we revised the judging process. The filtration phase was removed and the judges were selected based on their skill set with one judging phase. I would like to acknowledge and thank all 181 judges who dedicated their time and adjudicated all the entries. Our judges worked under the directorship and guidance of our three overall judging chairs; Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, Firdoze Bulbulia and Dr John Kani. Your contribution is invaluable. For the 11th SAFTAs three new categories were added, Micro Budget Film, Best Talk Show Host and a new discretionary Youth Achiever Award. The Micro Budget category is particularly interesting as it gives an opportunity for filmmakers who make films that are under R250 000 to be recognised. The Youth Achiever award is ac continuation on the two discretionary awards introduced last year. The youth is an integral part of the future of the film and television industry. Each year comes with its own challenges and growth opportunities. Partnerships between private and public sector remain imperative if the industry is to grow, develop and become more sustainable. Thank you to all our partners; Mc Café for the tremendous support and our new partners: Sun International, Ster-Kinekor, Mercedes-Benz Gauteng East, SAB Miller, Cruz Vodka, Ice Tropez, we look forward to long standing partnerships with all these brands. For the first time ever, the awards have been moved outside of Gauteng. The North West region is aligned to the NFVF’s mandate of transforming and creating accessibility to the film and television industry. Current plans are to focus on provinces who require assistance in uplifting, developing and creating a dynamic film and television industry. The SAFTAs have been a successful platform that we as the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) continue to use in recognising the dedication of filmmakers. Celebrating South African talent as well as reflecting on all the creativity and artistic offerings that the film and television industry has spearheaded allows us to compete on a global scale. We believe that their efforts have the potential to vastly contribute towards turning the film and television industry into a business that has a positive impact towards South Africa’s GDP. The SAFTAs are after all more than just an awards show! Congratulations to all the nominees and winners, you have proven that SA’s got it! Thank you.
Zama Mkosi C.E.O of NFVF ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 7
Introducing Our Partner
A
fter our successful partnership with the South African Film and Television Awards last year, this year’s partnership promises even better. McDonald’s South Africa, through our lifestyle coffee brand McCafé, are proud to be associated with the awards in 2017. Together with the National Film and Television Foundation, we support and celebrate the achievements and extraordinary talent within the industry. This sponsorship emphasizes our commitment to being a good neighbor in the communities in which we operate and serve and demonstrates our commitment to support and
advance the development of the television and film industry in South Africa. We have been partners of these prestigious awards since last year and when the opportunity presented itself again this year, we were honoured to sponsor the categories of Best Actor and Best Actress in a Feature Film. We are excited to share the special moments in between the action, with South Africa’s exceptionally talented artists. A little moment in between of history The McDonald’s brand has a long standing and strong relationship with the film and television industry. As a global brand with an iconic status, we are strongly reliant on the skills and talent of individuals recognised at awards like these. Big brands like ours give the industry an opportunity to hone their skills by practicing the art of commercial storytelling. It allows us to interact with the industry and the people on the platforms that we use for our brand. We thank the NFVF and its leadership for providing us with this exciting opportunity. This is certainly a relationship we intend to keep and sustain. Our collective approach is to determine collaboratively the needs and interests of the industry and its advancements as it evolves. Congratulations to all the deserving winners and especially those who won in the categories we have sponsored. We wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavours and we commit to always giving you our support.
Daniel Padiachy Chief Marketing Officer for McDonald’s SA 8 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Introducing NFVF
Growing South African movie industry
UNPACKING THE NFVF Promoting the South African Film Industry locally and internationally.
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he National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is a statutory body created in terms of the National Film and Video Foundation Act 73 of 1997 to develop and promote the South African film and video industry. The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is an agency of the Department of Arts and Culture that was created to ensure the equitable growth of South Africa’s film and video industry. We do this by providing funding for the development, production, marketing and distribution of films and also the training and development of filmmakers. In addition, the NFVF commissions research and produces industry statistics that provide both the public and stakeholders with valuable insights into the South African film industry.
Our main objectives: • Increase the number of South African films and Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDIs) producing them • Increase audience access to South African films • Increase the number of people trained in the industry, particularly in areas of scarce skills • Promote the South African Film Industry locally and internationally • Promote social cohesion and the expression of the nation’s stories through film Mission, Vision and Values The NFVF works with all stakeholders to support the development and promotion of the South African film industry and hopes to create an industry that represents our nation’s aspirations and celebrates our diversity
through the values of creativity, freedom of expression, entrepreneurship, equitable redress and collaboration. Mission To collaborate with all stake holders to enable the development and promotion of a transformed and thriving audio visual industry. Vision A leader towards a sustainable and diverse audio visual industry. Values Integrity, Respect, Equitable, Innovation, Collaborative, Service Centric and Professionalism The NFVF is the custodian of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). The SAFTAs is an annual project that is designed to: • Promote quality and excellence in the South African film and television products • Highlight and profile celebrated South African talent and product to national and international markets • Encourage the growth of talent and new talent within the industry • Encourage entrepreneurship within the South African Film and Television market Stimulate participation by a broad mass of the industry in competitive awards ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 9
African Talent
SOUTH AFRICA OPENS UP TO THE WORLD South Africans shocked the world when violent attacks against foreign nationals spread across the country in 2008. Recent protests in Pretoria sparked more xenophobic outcries calling for more to be done. Man On Ground, a film by multiple award winning actor, producer and director helps spread an antixenophobia message in the country and the world.
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hen word got out on social media nobody anticipated the events that followed. What meant to be a peaceful protest turned into an ugly clash between South Africans in Pretoria and foreigners living in the city. Despite the two groups being seperated by a thin line of policemen, their anger and differences led to a violent ending. This recent chaos in the capital city mirrored xenophobic scenes from 2008 and 2015. More than 60 people died during the violent xenophobic clashes in 2008. In 2015, the death of a 14-year-old Soweto boy led to unrest and violent looting of foreignowned shops in Soweto, Kagiso, Alexandra, Tembelihle, Langlaagte and other settlements around the country where six people including a baby died. The violence displaced thousands of foreigners around the country. It became evident that xenophobia was not going quickly disappear on its own. Work done by the Department of Home Affairs and Akin Omotoso are just some of the ways of addressing the problem. Nigerian born Akin Omotoso is not only an actor but a director and writer who has
worked on numerous productions in South Africa and other parts of the world. His love for performing began in 1993 when he enrolled for the only course at the University of Cape Town that did not require a matric exemption, the Performers Diploma in Speech and Drama. Since then, Akin has become a renowned performer in South Africa with many recognising his face from when he starred as Khaya Motene in the popular soapie Generations. He has also starred in Isidingo, Double Shift and Big Okes. Following the gruesome death of Ernesto Nhamuave in 2008, Akin was inspired to direct his second feature film, Man on Ground released in 2011. The film follows the life of a Nigerian-British doctor by the name of Ade who comes to visit his brother Femi in South Africa. Arriving shortly after the xenophobic attacks, Ade soon finds out that his brother has been missing and may actually be dead. Together with his brother’s fiancé, Ade finds the gruesome story behind his brother’s death and the reason why they cannot find his dead body. Speaking to Screen Africa, Akin explained his reasoning behind making the film. “The xenophobic attacks generated profound
national and continental shock and soul searching. Man on Ground is part of this continual reflection and is also a strong appeal for healing to ensure that such killings do not happen again.” In a separate interview, he said, “Ernesto Nhamuave was burnt alive and that image came to signify the horror of the riots. His picture inspired us to make the film. There had been tensions before but this was the first time there was a concentrated violent attack. The riots were condemned and there was a lot of outpouring of support for the displaced victims. There have been lots of artistic responses to the violence and our film is a continuation of that dialogue between artist and society.” Man On Ground stars Hakeem Kae-Kazim (Hotel Rwanda, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Mazinyo Dot Q), Fana Mokoena (Yizo Yizo, Generations, The Lab), Fabian Olojode (Jacob’s Cross) and Bubu Mazibuko (Gaz’lam, Catch A Fire). Even though it was self-funded and relied on crowd funding, Akin told the Mail and Guardian the film was a success. “The film has enjoyed great success in a short spate of time. From its premiere at The Toronto International Film Festival in September last year, to being selected as the only South African film at The Berlin International Film Festival, plus two awards at the African Movie Academy Awards (including Best Supporting Actor award for Fana Mokoena) to winning Best Director, Best Editor, Best Producer and Best DOP at the TAVA Awards. The audiences have been fantastic and the reviews have been dreamlike. Next step is taking it to the people.” Akin’s talents have led him to the big screen with movies like A Reasonable Man, Operation Delta Force 5: Random Fire, Lord of War, Blood Diamond, The Three Investigators and the Secret of Skeleton Island and Shake Hands with the Devil. His acting and directing talent has been recognised as he has won the Standard Bank Young Artist Award in the Film category, a SAFTA win for Best Director for a Place Called Home and a nomination for Best director for Soul City. Akin has also scored some invitations to showcase his work at the Cannes and Toronto film festivals. In 2015, his film Tell Me Sweet Love broke local box office records and earned him a best director award at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards in Lagos. His latest film Vaya, tells the story of three strangers trying to build their lives in the tough city of gold. The film is the only South African film selected at the Toronto Film Festival in Canada. It also took home the Best Movie in SA award at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The film stars Phuthi Nakene as Patricia, Warren Masemola as Xolani and Azwile Chamane-Madiba as Zodwa. The film is set to hit local screens later this year. ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 11
Nominees Breakfast
SAFTA NOMINATIONS BREAKFAST
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The Forum in Bryanston came alive on Thursday morning, 16 February when the talented stars from the film and television industry came out in their numbers to hear this year’s South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) nominees. The National Film and Video Foundation announced the names of the 258 nominees that stand a chance of walking away with the coveted Golden Horn Statue. The theme for the eleventh edition of the SAFTAs is SA has got it, let’s celebrate it. More than 400 submissions from across 89 categories were made including the new categories for Best Talk Show Host and the Youth Achiever Award. Hosted by actress Nambitha Mpumlwana, the breakfast became a celebration for all those that were nominated and it also gave the judges a chance to explain the judging process. Some of the judges seen at the breakfast include theatre legend Dr John Kani and Kimberley Stark who explained the voting process for the Best TV Presenter category and the Most Popular Soap category. Some of the famous faces seen at this breakfast include Luthuli Dlamini, Jeffery Mofokeng, Joe Mafela and Mutodi Neshehe
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 13
Awards Hosts
Red Carpet Host
WHOOO SHEM!
SOMIZI HEATS UP THE RED CARPET Guests and Celebrities are in for a treat as their much loved and energetic television personalities which are Somizi Mhlongo, Thando Thabete, Katlego Maboe and Stoan Seate will be their hosts at the SAFTAs this year.
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Awards Hosts
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his year’s South African Film and Television Awards hosts are not only multitalented but are stylish as well. Thando Thabethe, Katlego Maboe, Somizi Mhlongo and Stoan Seate are stars that know how to rock the red carpet and entertain at the same time. The 11th edition of the SAFTAs are set to take over Sun City with Thando and Katlego at the helms while Somizi and Stoan cover the behind the scenes and the red carpet. Young, beautiful and always stylish whether on or off the red carpet, Thando Thabethe promises to shower us with her audacious personality and sexy style throughout the evening. “I’m privileged enough to host the awards alongside the very talented Katlego Maboe. He has such an amazing energy and I think we have a great synergy.” “Also expect lots of amazing fashion moments. I will be dressed by Zarth, Quitteria & George and Biji La Maison,” she said. From being the first Nivea ambassador 16 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
in the country, Thando’s career has quickly been on the rise. Her radio presenting started when she was still a Bcom Accounting student at the University of Johannesburg in 2008. Fast forward to 2015 when 5FM finally gave Thando her own show, The Thando Thabooty Show which airs on weekdays from 10 to 1. While building her radio career, Thando also landed on-screen roles in Intersexions, My Perfect Family, Kowethu and the 1s and 2s. She currently stars in the country’s most beloved soap, Generations: The Legacy as Nolwazi Buzo, a career driven women who landed her way into the soap’s most powerful family. Thando will be hosting the SAFTAs for the first time this year and she simply cannot wait for the evening. “I am beyond excited and honoured to be entrusted with standing in front of the biggest names in South African
Ntokozo Mkhize. Like his co-host, Katlego studied Bcom Accounting before beginning his career in the media industry. Katlego and Thando showed us their chemistry when they presented the Best Styled Award category at the Metro’s this year. If tonight is anything like that little snippet, we are in for a treat. MC, choreographer, singer, TV personality and more, Somizi Mhlongo is one multitalented man with a flamboyant personality to match. He comes back this year to cover the behind the scenes and red carpet of the 11th SAFTAs. He is fashion forward and not shy about it. In fact, Somizi has expressed on numerous occasions that he is not shy about simply being himself. He rocks what he wants, when he wants, while sometimes promoting local and international designers. He currently presents a show on Metro FM titled Whose Line Is It Anyway alongside Khanyi Mbau. The pair talk about anything and everything not censored on radio. His honest and unapologetic presence will be a sight to behold, especially on the red carpet. Our last host is none other than legendary Bongo Maffin rapper Stoan Seate. He will be alongside, Somizi giving us some of the scenes from the red carpet and backstage. Despite his acting, rapping and producing abilities, presenting seems to come easy for Stoan. This is especially evident in his previous work where he presented Castle Loud from 2001 until 2003 before moving onto the musical game show, Lilizela in 2004. He also became a guest presenter at the 6th Crown Gospel Awards in 2013. Stoan currently hosts the SABC 2 music show Afro Café. We cannot wait to see how Stoan cool and collectedness will mesh up with Somizi’s loud and colorful side.
film and Television, presenting the SAFTAs. It means the absolute world to me and I cannot wait to give it my all,” she said. Stylish, handsome and trilingual Katlego Maboe, seems to have all the right elements to being an award-winning presenter. Not only is he nominated tonight for Best TV Presenter on the Expresso breakfast show but he has also won the title in 2015 and 2016. His versatility makes him a sort after talent. In 2014, he hosted the annual ATKV Mediaveertjies and the Huisgenoot Tempo Toekennings. He also hosted Strictly Come
Dancing for two consecutive years where in 2015 he was nominated for Best TV Presenter for the show as well as for Expresso. Last year, the multitalented Katlego hosted the SAFTAs with Minnie Dlamini. He surprised fans by also performing the opening act with MiCasa’s J-Something and rapper, Fifi Copper. Apart from presenting and hosting shows, Katlego is also working on his music, a passion he has had since he became a member of the North West Children’s Choir in 1998. Last year he wrote and co-produced a single titled RACE (against time) along with David Harmse and ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 17
Nominees Dinner
SAFTA GALA DINNER
THE NIGHT THE STARS CAME OUT TO PLAY
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hings glammed up when the annual South African Film and Television Awards rolled out the red carpet for the gala dinner on 24 February in Rivonia, Sandton where the nominees received certificates to celebrate the honour of being nominated. Spotted at this elegant affair were some of the talented nominees like Warren Masemola, Tina Jaxa, Samela Tyelbooi, Antony Coleman, Justin Strydom and two time SAFTA winner Siyabonga Radeba with his beautiful baby girl. Prior to this dinner, the stars gathered at the Forum in Bryanston on 16 February where the National Film and Video Foundation announced this year’s SAFTA nominees. With this year’s theme being ‘SA has got
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it, let’s celebrate it’, the country’s film and television stars came out in numbers to hear the 258 nominees that stand a chance of walking away with the coveted Golden Horn Statue. Hosted by actress Nambitha Mpumlwana, the breakfast became a celebration for all those that were nominated and it also gave the judges a chance to explain the judging process. Some of the judges seen at the breakfast include theatre legend Dr John Kani and Kimberley Stark who explained the voting process for the Best TV Presenter category and the Most Popular Soap category. The 11th SAFTAs will be held at the Sun City resort in North West on 16 and 18 March with the last night being televised on SABC 2.
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 19
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Nominations Night One
NIGHT ONE HERE ARE YOUR 2017 SAFTAs 11 NOMINEES BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN WARDROBE, MAKE-UP AND HAIR - TV COMEDY
BEST SHORT FILM Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
Konneksies
Zebra Worldwide
Forced Love Season 2
Islyn Salie & Pippa Heimann
The Suit
Mandala Films
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Cheney Van Graan, Geralt Cloete & Alice Jacobs
Vryslag
Idea Candy
Those who Can’t
Rochelle Selling & Silindile Dladla
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ART/PRODUCTION DESIGN - TV COMEDY
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN POST PRODUCTION EDITING – TV COMEDY
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Catherine Jacot-Guillarmod, Racine Williams, Simone Rossouw
Hotel
Johan Cronje
Skwizas Season 4
Mpho Makhobotloane
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Aurora Drummer & Nicolai Groudev
Those who Can’t
Amanda Scholtz
The Bantu Hour season 1
Marc de Montbron, Khulekani Zondi, Siyanda Rasi
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SCRIPTWRITING -TV COMEDY
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN- TV COMEDY
22 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Programme Title
Practitioner
Hotel
Bennie Fourie and Stiaan Smith
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Karen Jeynes, Chris McEvoy, Nkuli Sibeko – Botman, Sipumziwe Sandiso Lucwaba, Angel Blythe Campey
The Bantu Hour Season 1
Muzi Dlamini, Camilo Zain Saloojee, Christopher Steenkamp, Lazola Gola, Loyiso Madinga, Nina Hastie, Mojakisane Lehoko,T shireletso ‘Mo’ Mothebe, Claudine Ullman Dusty Rich, Reabetwe Moeti, Jason Cope, Tats Nkonzo, Siyabonga Sisanti, Karabo Lediga, KG Mokgadi, Jason Goliath
Programme Title
Practitioner
ZANews : Puppet Nation
Lyle Bennet
Those Who Can’t
Janno Muller
Kota Life Crisis 2
Jonty Everton
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN POST PRODUCTION SOUND DESIGN- TV COMEDY
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SCRIPTWRITING TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
Hotel
Jozua Loots
Die Boekklub
Louis Pretorius
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Neil Benjamin
Fluiters
Deon Opperman
Those who Can’t
Janno Muller, Jonty Everton, Thapelo Makhubo
JAB
Paul Ian Johnson
BEST CHILDREN’S PROGRAMME (1-15YRS)
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY - TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Practitioner
Challenge SOS
2 Blonds and a Redhead Filming
Bloedbroers
Adam Bentel
Disney Cookabout
Penguin Films
Heist Season 1
Tiyane Nyembe
Silly Seasons – Piece of Cake
The Flying Circus
Saints and Sinners Season 2
Jonathan de la Querra
BEST YOUTH PROGRAMME (16 -25YRS)
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING - TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Production House
100% youth
Tshedza Media
Bloedbroers
Ula Oelsen & Johan Cronje
Craz-e Sistahood
Red Pepper Pictures
Heist Season 1
Melanie Golden
MTV Base meets Bill Gates
TIA Productions
Saints and Sinners Season 2
Eugene Lombaard
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN - TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Practitioner
Bloedbroers
Ben Oelsen
Heist Season 1
Jonty Everton
Umlilo
Janno Muller, Thapelo Makhubo & Jonty Everton
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 23
Nominations Night One
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN - TV DRAMA
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN WARDROBE, MAKE-UP AND HAIR- TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Practitioner
Bloedbroers
Ben Oelsen
Programme Title
Practitioner
Heist Season 1
Jonty Everton
Bloedbroers
Julia Rubinstein, Sulet Meintjes
Umlilo
Janno Muller, Thapelo Makhubo & Jonty Everton
Heist Season 1
Rosina Olifant & Ntombizanele Mokwena
It’s Complicated Season 1
Silindile Dladla & Brenda Khambule
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ORIGINAL MUSIC/SCORE-TV DRAMA Programme Title
Practitioner
Bloedbroers
Janine Neethling
Roer jou Voete
Duane Michael Riley Arthur
Sober Companion
Neill Solomon & Allan Smith
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ART/PRODUCTION DESIGN TV DRAMA Programme Title
Practitioner
Bloedbroers
Bathoni Robinson
Fluiters
Bathoni Robinson
Heist Season 1
Thabiso Senne
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN POST PRODUCTION EDITING - TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA
24 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SCRIPTWRITING TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA Programme Title
Practitioner
High Rollers
Meren Reddy, David Gordon, Henriëtta Gryffenberg, Alyzzander Fourie, Sipho Mbonye,
Isibaya
Paul Grootboom, Desiree Markgraaff, Paul S Rowlston, Jacob Ntshangase, James Whyle, Sunni Faba, Catherine Muller, Zolisa Sigwanda, Richard Beynon, Mbali Zulu, Christian Blomkamp, Fabian Medea
Uzalo Season 2
Phathutshedzo Makwarela
Programme Title
Practitioner
High rollers
Kholofelo Malatshi, Bertus Kirsten, Brett Macdonald & Theo Scheepers
Isibaya
Kirsten de Magalhaes, Jack Esterhuizen, Sibongeleni Mabuyakhulu, Nqobizwe Ndlangamandla & Muzi Mthabela
The Road
Kirsten de Magalhaes, Andrew Traill, Julian Thomas, Nqobizwe Ndlangamandla & Sharron Hawkes
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN POST PRODUCTION ORIGINAL MUSIC/SCORE- TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA
BEST MADE FOR TV MOVIE
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
High Rollers
Orangutang Music
Skorokoro
Phoenix Films
Isibaya
Philip Miller
Die Geur van Appelkose
Luna Films International
The Road
Philip Miller
Stick-Up
Inside Job Media, Turning Heads Academy &33 Films
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ART / PRODUCTION DESIGN TV SOAP/TELENOVELA
BEST REALITY SHOW Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Production House
The Ultimate Braai Master
Cooked in Africa Films
Generations, The Legacy
Inamarie Swanepoel
Vrydag4uur
Red Pepper Pictures
Isibaya
Dylan Lloyd & Henrietta Moutinho
Weg! Agtepaaie, Namibie
Red Pepper Pictures
The Road
Dylan Lloyd &Johann Krynauw
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN WARDROBE, MAKE-UP AND HAIR- TV SOAP/TELENOVELA
BEST INTERNATIONAL FORMAT SHOW
Programme Title Practitioner Generations The legacy
Bongi Mlotshwa ,Mahosazana Masuku, Sizake Sipayo & Natalie Lundon
Isidingo
Amy Sprawson & Julie Palmer
The Road
Julene Paton &Trudi Barklem
BEST GAME SHOW
Programme Title
Production House
Clash of the Choirs
Endemol Shine Africa
The Great South African Bake off Season 1
Rapid Blue
The Voice South Africa
African Media and Production Network
Programme Title
Production House
Musiek Roulette Season 3
Stemmburg Television
Noot vir Noot Season 41
Stemmburg Television
Point of Order
Both Worlds
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 25
Nominations Night One
BEST FACTUAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME
BEST MAGAZINE SHOW
Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Production House
Diamond River Hunters
UNcut Productions
50/50
Clive Morris Productions
Now or Never
Dzuguda Productions
All Access Mzansi
Burnt Onion Productions
Ocean Adventurer
Okuhle Media
The Man Cave
Cheeky Pictures
BEST CURRENT AFFAIRS ACTUALITY PROGRAMME
BEST MUSIC SHOW Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Production House
Coke Studio
Good Noise productions
Carte Blanche
Combined Artists
Jam Sandwich
Meerkat Media
Saving Microbabies
Combined Artistic Productions
Xperia Mashlab
Thread
Spieners
SABC
BEST VARIETY SHOW
BEST TALK SHOW HOST Programme Title
Production House
Anele Mdoda
Real Talk with Anele
Bonnie Mbuli
Afternoon Express
Karen Zoid
Republiek van Zoid Afrika
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SCRIPTWRITING - FEATURE FILM
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY FEATURE FILM 26 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Programme Title
Production House
Expresso
Cardova Productions
Jou Ma se Chef
Cheeky Pictures
Sarah Graham Food Safari Season 1
Okuhle Media
Programme Title
Practitioner
Noem my Skollie
John Fredericks
Sink
Brett Michael Innes
Tess
Tracey Farren
Programme Title
Practitioner
Hatchet Hour
Tom Marais
Modder en Bloed
Adam Bentel
Sink
Trevor Calverley
BEST ACHIEVEMENT EDITING – FEATURE FILM
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKE-UP AND HAIR FEATURE FILM
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Production House
Noem my Skollie
Simon Beesley
Happiness is a Four Letter Word
Diane Allen
Shepherds and Butchers
Megan Gill
Noem my Skollie
Gale Shepherd
Sink
Nicholas Costaras & Brett Michael Innes
Shepherds and Butchers
Marli Kruger & Talli Patcher
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN - FEATURE FILM
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN COSTUME DESIGN – FEATURE FILM
Programme Title
Production House
Modder en Bloed
Jim Petrak
Programme Title
Practitioner
Shepherds and Butchers
Ivan Millborrow, Charlotte Buys, Nicky de Beer
Dora’s Peace
Nerine Pienaar & Jolandi Pienaar
Sink
Barry Donnelly
Noem my Skollie
Emma Moss
Shepherds and Butchers
Diana Cilliers
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ORIGINAL MUSIC/SCORE FEATURE FILM
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY DOCUMENTARY SHORT
Programme Title
Practitioner
Modder en Bloed
Quinn Lubbe
Programme Title
Practitioner
Noem my Skollie
Kyle Shepherd
Cape Town Carnival 2015: Elemental
Garth Kingwill
Sink
Chris Letcher
T-bone: King Of The Spotted Cats
Charl Senekal
When We Were Kids
Dean Shamley
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING –WILDLIFE PROGRAMME
Programme Title
Practitioner
Africa’s Trees of Life – Camelthorn Tree
Stefania Muller
Soul of the Elephant
Derek Joubert
Brothers in Blood – The Lions of Sabi Sand
Peter Lamberti
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 27
Nominations Night One
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY WILDLIFE PROGRAMME Programme Title
Practitioner
Brothers in Blood – The Lions of Sabi Sand
Greg Nelson
Incredible Spiders Soul of the Elephant
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING DOCUMENTARY SHORT Programme Title
Practitioner
Boris Von Schoenebeck, Greg Nelson, Willem Van Heerden & Lee Jackson
I Walk Alone
Lauren Groenewald
Six to Six
Mia Cilliers
Derek Joubert
The Silent Form
Simon Wood
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING - WILDLIFE PROGRAMME Programme Title
Practitioner
Brothers in Blood – The Lions of Sabi Sand
Rupert Troskie
Incredible Diggers
Ruaan Botha
Soul of the Elephant
Candice Odgers
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN - WILDLIFE PROGRAMME Programme Title
Practitioner
Africa’s Trees of Life – The Sausage Tree
Janno Muller
Bothers in Blood – The Lions of Sabi Sand
Martin Ferreira
Incredible Diggers
Dave Birch, Jono Green, Nux Schwartz &Tristan Horton
BEST WILDLIFE PROGRAMME
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY DOCUMENTARY SHORT Programme Title
Practitioner
Cape Town Carnival 2016 – Street Life
Garth Kingwill
South African Heroes – Theresa Gwala
Geoffrey Robert Hookins
The Silent Form
Simon Wood
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING - DOCUMENTARY SHORT Programme Title
Practitioner
Cape Town Carnival 2016 – Street Life
Garth Kingwill
South African Heroes – Theresa Gwala
Conroy Esterhuizen
The Silent Form
Khalid Shamis
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN DOCUMENTARY SHORT
Programme Title
Practitioner
Africa’s Trees of Life – Camelthorn Tree
Obsessively Creative
Programme Title
Practitioner
Brothers in Blood: The Lions of Sabi Sand
Aquavision TV Productions
Cape Town Carnival 2016 – Street Life
Chris Bornman
Soul of the Elephant
Wildlife Films
The Silent Form
João Orecchia & Guy Steer
28 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING - DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Production House
Cape Town Carnival 2016 – Street Life
F.I.L.M
Alison
Daniel Mitchell
South African Heroes – Theresa Gwala
Etv
Doc-U-Mentally
Bryan Bartle & Andre Meyer
The Silent Form
SaltPeter Productions
Nobody’s died Laughing
Geoffrey Butler
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING - DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND DESIGN DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
Action Kommandant
Nadine Angel Cloete
Alison
Simon Ratcliffe ,James Olivier & Richard West
Alison
Uga Carlini
Thina Sobabili
Jonty Everton
To Skin a Cat
Greg Lomas &Colwyn Thomas
Nobody’s died Laughing
Barry Donnelly
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Programme Title
Practitioner
Alison
Georgia Court
Doc-U-Mentally
Andre Meyer
Nobody’s died Laughing
Nic van der Westhuizen
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 29
Box Office Success
KALUSHI
THE LIFE OF SOLOMON MAHLANGU
S
et in the 1970s at the very height of the apartheid regime, this enthralling biopic takes us through the tragic story of Solomon Mahlangu, a South African struggle icon gone too soon. The film takes you through different times in his life; from the time he was a student and part time hawker on the dusty streets of Mamelodi, Pretoria, to the time he joined the liberation movement-fighting against Bantu education and also the time he decided to fight the apartheid government with more than just sticks and stones. Thabo Rametsi, plays the role of Solomon and completely embodies the role effectively bringing him back to life. He gives viewers a chance to bear witness to Solomon’s passion, his fight and his hunger for freedom. Viewers not only see him as a struggle icon but also see the powerful moments between him and his mother, Martha played by Gcina Mhlophe as well as moments between him and his lover 30 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Brenda played by Pearl Thusi. Directed by first time filmmaker, Mandla Dube the film tells a powerful South African story and is authentically portrayed by a young and talented South African cast. Speaking to Mandla, he says since it’s screening in international film festivals and on local cinemas from 10 March, the film has received incredible reviews. “The international audience has showed amazing love and great response to Kalushi. We have screened in Zanzibar where we won the New Dehli India best actor award and at the Rapid Lion film festival won best song and best film. This being a local film festival, it’s proof that local audience resonated with the film. It screened to a full house at DIFF and received a standing ovation. Recently in London and Stockholm we got same reviews and packed auditoriums of 700 folks glued to the screen. It has been good. We premiered and opened to great response locally on March 10th and the
momentum is growing.” “We are humbled by South Africa’s overwhelming love for the film,” he says. He also adds that working on Kalushi was a team effort and that the Mahlangu family was there every step of the way. “I had a great team from my co-writer Leon Otto, cinematographer Tommy Maddox Upshaw, editor Craig Hayes, Production Designer Chantel Carter, costumes Ruy Phillipe and the wonderful casting director Bonni Lee Bowman. The lighting was superb by Manny Sithole who had key grip Alpheus Manaka to make sure the set was safe at all times. The research done with Teddy Mattera and the late George Molebatsi helped to overcome all challenges.” “The Mahlangu family were involved throughout the entire process including performing rituals with us to ensure that the ancestors are part of this process from beginning to end. It was a highly spiritual journey,” he says. Kalushi may be the first South African film about our struggle heroes told by an all South African cast. Many including legendary Jerry Mofokeng had criticized the industry’s inability to tell its own stories. Mandla agrees that this is a problem that we need to address. “It was necessary to make Kalushi with an all South African cast because the talent is here, however the self doubt that the filmmakers have had is what delayed this emergence of a Home Brewed Cinema. I blame the filmmakers and not the actors,” he says. Although telling the story was a challenge, Mandla admits that the support he received was of great help. “Getting the story right and nailing the emotions from the script to the screen was a challenge. Time is always a factor but we got it done. The National Lotteries Commission, NFVF, DTI, DAC, GFC, KZNFC and other parties truly helped mitigate whatever challenges we came across.” Mandla is proud of the success of the film and hopes to continue telling more South African stories in the future. ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 31
Close Up
A CLOSE UP WITH
ANANT SINGH
With more than 80 movies under his name, this multiple award-winning producer is probably the most sought-after film producer in the country. His latest production, Shepherds and Butchers is nominated nine times tonight. Anant spares us just five minutes to talk about his latest endeavors including his work on Khalo Matabane’s 28’s.
32 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
A
nant Singh, is an exceptional South African producer responsible for producing some of the country’s most iconic anti-apartheid films such as a Place of Weeping, Cry, the Beloved Country and Sarafina! Anant also worked on Yesterday, the country’s first Academy Award nominated film in 2005. The Durban born producer has been producing films since he was 18-years-old. To date, he has produced more than 80 films including Mr Bones which broke South African box office records by earning more than R32 million at the box office, as well as Mama Jack which grossed R28 million. In 2006, the SAFTAs awarded Anant with a Golden Horn for his Outstanding Contribution to the South African Film and Television industry. Anant has worked on numerous other film project with various local and international celebrities. Some of these include Sarafina! with Whoopi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo and Miriam Makeba; The Road to Mecca, with Kathy Bates; Father Hood, with Patrick Swayze and Halle Berry; Captives, with Julia Ormond and Tim Roth; Tobe Hooper’s The Mangler, with Robert Englund and based on a Stephen King short story; Paljas shot in Afrikaans, the first South African film considered for an Oscar in the Best Foreign Language film category; Face, with Robert Carlyle; The Theory of Flight, with Kenneth Branagh and Helena Bonham Carter; Bravo Two Zero, with Sean Bean; The Long Run, with Armin Mueller-Stahl; Tsui Hark’s remake of The Legend of Zu, with Zhang Ziyi; I Capture the Castle,with Tara Fitzgerald and Henry Thomas and Red Dust, with Hilary Swank and Chiwetel Ejiofor, a drama on South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. His latest film, Shepherds and Butchers is nominated nine times tonight. The film directed by multi-award winner, Oliver Schmitz is based on the award-winning South African novel by Chris Marnewick, a former defence attorney who used his experience to give the tale as much detail as possible. The lead character, John Weber played by Steve Coogan is a lawyer in the 1980s who tries to defend a 19-year-old prison guard charged with the murder of seven black men. Being an activist and filmmaker, Anant developed a bond with Nelson Mandela and even won the rights to Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, which he produced and released in 2013. Internationally, the film received critical appraisal and numerous award wins and nominations such as the Golden Globe win and nominations from the Academy Award and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. Amongst many other things, Anant is currently the CEO of Videovision Entertainment which is among the leading independent film distributors in South Africa. In over 30 years the film company has managed to produce more than 80 films while also getting more than 3 500 international films for distribution in the country over the last 25 years. These films range from independent films and documentaries, foreign language and arthouse films to multi-million dollar blockbuster films in South Africa, the
United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Hong Kong. Some of these include Song for Marion, Seven Psychopaths, Shadow Dancer, Sleeper’s Wake, The Grandmaster, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Selma, Kite, Pride, Shepherds and Butchers, Blood Father and A United Kingdom. Anant Singh is the only South African member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He is also on the board of the International Marketing Council of South Africa, the Los Angeles-based Artists for a New South Africa. He has received the Crystal Award of the World Economic Forum and the Lifetime Founder Member Award of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. 1. As a producer of your status, what do you think are some of the challenges facing film and television producers and performers in South Africa and the African continent as a whole? Whilst our industry has been growing at a rapid rate, we still face the challenge of local audience appreciation. This is a limiting factor as it affects the viability of local content in the market place. I believe that the broadcasters need to play a more meaningful role by commissioning locally produced content, and growing the talent pool. 2. What are some of your thoughts on the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa? Any sort of violence based on ethnicity and/or nationality is unacceptable. The situation is highly complex, especially given the plight of those most people affected, as they are without jobs and don’t have the bare necessities. 3. Do you think a film or television series showing the different perspectives would be ideal to educate and unite African people? Do you know anyone working on this? Most certainly. Either a television series or a film would be very effective in creating more awareness on the issues, and it could also promote understanding and tolerance. I did a short film about xenophobia in 2015, as a public service project which was supported by the Nelson Mandela and Ahmed Kathrada Foundations. I’m not aware of any projects on this subject matter currently being produced, but ‘Beast of No Nation was excellent. 4. What are you working on now? We are co-producers on Khalo Matabane’s film, ‘28s’ which was shot in Durban and is currently in post-production. We are also working on the development of eThekwini Film City on the Durban beachfront. This will be a hub for the film industry in Durban and KZN will comprise of film studios, a film school, post production facilities and support for film and television productions. 5. What are your plans for the future? I remain committed to the South African Film Industry and look forward to contributing to its growth and to build a stronger global profile for our creative and technical talent.
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 33
Music in Film
Lebo M
MUSIC IN FILM
There is power in music, one that also exists in film. Both have the extraordinary ability to make us feel something sometimes greater than ourselves.
34 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Feature
T
here is power in music, one that also exists in film. Both have the extraordinary ability to make us feel something sometimes greater than ourselves. Together, they are dynamic. Together they create magic. We spoke to the multitalented and multiple award winning Lebo Morake, popularly known as Lebo M, the musical composer of Lion King to uncover the importance of the right song for the right scene in a film.
Lebo M started singing from the tender age of 9 performing in night clubs before releasing his first single, Celebration at the age of 12. However, the South African music industry was under apartheid as such he left for Lesotho. Whilst performing at a nightclub, US ambassador Tim Thashane invited Lebo M to cultivate his unique talent by studying at the Duke Ellington School of music in Washington. After a few years living on the street and working in fast food restaurants,
Lebo finally established himself as a musician in the US. He was given the opportunity to assemble a choir at the Academy Awards to celebrate the nomination of the 1987 South African themed film Cry Freedom‘s. Following the choir’s excellent performance, Lebo M started getting invitations to co-produce and co-write on some musical projects. Some of these included the beginning of Lebo M and Hans Zimmer’s relationship. The duo worked on The Power of One, where Lebo M co-produced, arranged and co-wrote the soundtrack accompanying the film. The pair went onto work in various other projects such as Congo, Outbreak, Made in America and Born to be Wild. Lebo M also worked on Quincy Jones’ Back on the Block album. In 1994, Hans Zimmer agreed to create the soundtrack for The Lion King but only if he worked with Lebo. After tracking him down, the duo got to work. Lebo helped arrange the music on the movie including creating soundtrack which included songs like the Circle of Life and Hakuna Matata. However, his famous vocal sequence he delivers during the first scenes of the movie are what make him most memorable for some. The Lion King went on to win a Grammy. Lebo M continued to work on the soundtrack for the sequel, Rhythm of the Pride Lands. Shortly after this, Lebo M and film, theatre and opera director Julie Taylor worked on the Broadway adaptation of the film which went international. In 2006, Lebo M finally got the opportunity to bring the show to South Africa. After building a new theatre, negotiating with the various stakeholders involved; the first Lion King production made up of a 100% South African cast began its 20 week run at the Montecasino Teatro in 2008. Since its first show in the country, The Lion King South Africa was seen by more than 550 000 people in South Africa and over 75 million people around the world with a worldwide gross earnings of over $6.2 billion in 2014. Lebo M may be notorious for bringing The Lion King to life, but he has worked on numerous musical productions which have awarded him with a Tony nomination for best producer and best songwriter, the UK’s Ivor Novello award for best songwriter, and two SAMA awards. This multitalented musician is also the founder and chairperson of the Lebo M Foundation and Till Dawn Entertainment. The Lebo M Foundation is his way of giving back to previously disadvantaged communities by providing them with support as well as developing their creative abilities. Till Dawn Entertainment is a record, television and film production company that has since worked on the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa.
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 35
Nominations Night Two
NIGHT TWO HERE ARE YOUR 2017 SAFTAs 11 NOMINEES BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR- TV COMEDY
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS- TV COMEDY
BEST ACTOR-TV COMEDY
BEST ACTRESS -TV COMEDY
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Deon Lotz
Don Mostert
Buurtwag
Graham Wier
Oom Dirk
Hotel
Reabetswe Rangaka
Martin Shai
The Mayor
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Sylvaine Strike
Agatha
Those Who Can’t
Kate Normington
Desiree Young
Those Who Can’t
Robyn Scott
Marlena Heinkel
Those Who Can’t
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
James Borthwick
Ferdie Kruger
Hotel
Kagiso Lediga
Kagiso Lediga
The Bantu Hour Season 1
Grant Swanby
Victor Virgil
Those who Can’t
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Zola Nombona
Kat
Forced Love Season 2
Hanlé Barnard
Various Characters
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Chantal Herman
Sylvia Hiscock
Those who Can’t
-
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING - TV COMEDY
BEST TV COMEDY
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Production House
Hotel
Bennie Fourie and Stiaan Smith
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Both Worlds
Puppet Nation ZANEWS!
Alex Fynn & Johann Vermaak
Hotel
Nouvanaand Films
Those who Can’t
Tim Greene, Zee Ntuli & Daniel
Those Who Can’t
Quizzical Pictures
36 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR -TV DRAMA
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS - TV DRAMA
BEST ACTOR -TV DRAMA
BEST ACTRESS -TV DRAMA
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Chris van Niekerk
Stef Mouton
Die Boekklub
Tumisho Masha
Gibson Mosia
Saints and Sinners Season 2
Warren Masemola
Cosatu
Heist Season 1
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Jana Cilliers
Anna Uys
Die Boekklub
Tina Jaxa
Zinzi
Isikizi Season 1
Samela Tyelbooi
Mandisa
It’s Complicated Season1
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Neels van Jaarsveld
Willem Pretorius
Bloedbroers
Jerry Mofokeng
Talent
Heist Season 1
Trevor Gumbi
Trevor
Sober Companion
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Tiffany Barbuzano
Grace
Sober Companion
Brenda Ngxoli
Kitt Khambule
Hustle
Linda Sokhulu
Pamela Thusi
Sokhulu and Partners Season 2
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING -TV DRAMA
BEST TV DRAMA
Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Production House
Bloedbroers
Jozua Malherbe
Bloedbroers
Deon Opperman Produksies
Heist Season 1
Rolie Nikiwe
Heist season 1
Branded Soul Productions
Sober Companion
Johnny Barbuzano, Cindy Lee & Sanele Zulu
Sober Companion
Gumbi Productions
BEST TV PRESENTER - PUBLIC VOTE Presenter
Programme Title
Presenter
Programme Title
Bob Mabena (A)
Mzansi Magic Music Specials
Laurian Nortje (D)
Hectic Nine-9
Chanley Wong (B)
Craz-e : Sistahood
Lawrence Maleka (E)
Clash of the Choirs
Katlego Maboe (C)
Expresso
Masechaba Ndlovu (F)
The Big Debate Season 7
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 37
Nominations Night Two
BEST TV PRESENTER - PUBLIC VOTE CONT. Programme Title
Practitioner
Programme Title
Practitioner
Sivuyile Ngesi (G)
The Man Cave Season 4
Tumi Morake (J)
Point of Order
Thembisa Mdoda (H)
Our Perfect Wedding
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR -TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS - TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA BEST ACTOR -TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA
BEST ACTRESS -TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING - TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA
38 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Mandla Gaduka
Damian
Ashes to Ashes Season 2
Pallance Dladla
Jabu
Isibaya
Warren Masemola
Stukkie
Ring of Lies
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Maggie Benedict
Violet
Ashes to Ashes Season 2
Nandi Nyembe
Ma Nkonzo
Ashes to Ashes Season 2
Linda Sebezo
Sharon Dlamini
Greed and Desire
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Antony Coleman
David King
High Rollers
Justin Strydom
Paul King
High Rollers
Siyabonga Thwala
Mpiyakhe
Isibaya
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Tina Jaxa
May Gumede
Gold Diggers
Clementine Mosimane
Ruth Gumede
Gold Diggers
Masasa Mbangeni
Thembeka Shezi
Scandal!
Programme Title
Production House
High Rollers
The Directing Team
Isibaya
Phiwe Mkhanzi & Sthembiso Mathenjwa
The Road
John Barker,Denny Miller & EmileSmith
BEST TALK SHOW
BEST TV SOAP/ TELENOVELA Programme Title Production House
Programme Title
Production House
High Rollers
Rous House Productions
Real Talk with Anele
Cheeky Media
Isibaya
The Bomb Shelter Film Company
Republiek van Zoid Afrika
Brainwave Productions
The Road
The Bomb Shelter Film Company
The Chatroom
Toxmedia
MOST POPULAR TV SOAP/TELENOVELA - PUBLIC VOTE Programme Title
Production House
Programme Title
Production House
7’de Laan – Code 1
7’de Laan
Isidingo – Code 10
Endemol Shine Africa
Ashes to Ashes Season 2 – Code 2
Clive Morris Productions
Rhythm City – Code11
Quizzical Pictures
Binnerlanders - Code 3
Stark Films
Ring of Lies – Code 12
Penguin Films
Generations The Legacy – Code 4
MMSV Productions
Scandal! – Code 13
Ochre Media
Getroud met Rugby – Die Sepie – Code 5
Overberg Produksies
Suidooster – Code 14
Suidooster Films
Gold Diggers – Code 6
Urban Brew Studios
The Road – Code 15
The Bomb Shelter Film Company
Greed and Desire – Code 7
Ochre Media
Uzalo Season 2 – Code 16
Stained Glass Productions
High Rollers – Code 8
Stark Films
Zabalaza – Code 17
Urban Brew Studios
Isibaya – Code 9
The Bomb Shelter Film Company
BEST STUDENT FILM
BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING - FEATURE FILM
Programme Tittle
Institution
Arid
The Animation School
Finding Freedom
UCT TV
The Locket
AFDA
Programme Title
Practitioner
Modder en Bloed
Sean Else
Noem my Skollie
Darryne Joshua
Shepherds and Butchers
Oliver Schmitz
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 39
Nominations Night Two
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR FEATURE FILM
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS - FEATURE FILM
BEST ACTOR – FEATURE FILM PROUDLY PRESENTED BY MCCAFE BEST ACTRESS - FEATURE FILM PROUDLY PRESENTED BY MCCAFE BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
BEST FEATURE FILM
40 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Grant Swanby
Colonel Swannell
Modder en Bloed
Abduraghmaan Adams
Mr. C
Noem my Skollie
Deon Lotz
Warrant Officer
Shepherds and Butchers
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Hlubi Mboya
Connie
Dora’s Peace
Leleti Khumalo
Maria
Free State
Renate Stuurman
Precious
Happiness is a Four Letter Word
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Deon Lotz
Bernard
Dis Koue Kos, Skat
Dann- Jaques Mouton
Abraham “AB”
Noem my Skollie
Garion Dowds
Leon Labuschagne
Shepherds and Butchers
Real Name
Character Name
Programme Title
Anel Alexander
Michelle
Sink
Shoki Mokgapa
Rachel
Sink
Christia Visser
Tess
Tess
Programme Title
Production House
Alison
Towerkop Creations
Doc-U-Mentally
Intersection Studios
Nobody’s died Laughing
Who Projects
Programme Title
Production House
Noem My Skollie
Maxi-D TV Productions
Shephards and Butchers
Videovision Entertainment
Sink
Nostalgia Productions, Brittle Star Pictures and Scramble Productions
SET YOUR SIGHTS FOR SOUTH AFRICA Our history, infrastructure, landscape, heritage sides, beaches and breath taking natural scenery have captured the eye of international film makers. Photos By JOBURG FILMS
Photos by Joburg Films
T
here is a reason why the grassy plains of South Africa bring stars from the rest of the world into our country. Their majestic beauty are a mighty sight to behold and the best setting for any movie scene. South Africa is very rich with such locations that are not only beautiful but have a history that can play into any film script. From some of the most beautiful beach houses that overlook the Atlantic and Indian oceans to the thick golden barley wheat fields in the Western Cape. From the peaks of Table Mountain to the grapevines of the Cape lands that stretch as far as the eye can see. The windy city is one location that holds some of the key locations for a romantic movie. Or you could set your drama or action scene in the dry desert of the Kalahari like in the film Mad Max Fury starring Charlize Theron set in the Namib Desert. This Hollywood blockbuster showed how versatile the desert can be. Alternatively, you could set the scene behind the luscious green forest fields found in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga regions, like the scenes often used in the SAFTA nominated Mzansi magic series Isibaya. Or go the traditional route with mud huts like those used in the iconic Mr Bones movies that broke South African box office records. Or create an even bigger blockbuster than the The Avengers: Age of Ultron film that set their epic fight scene against the backdrops of the country’s business district skyscrapers in the city of gold. Create your own speed
chase drama in the streets of Hillbrow or even Sandton or showcase the township like in the Oscar winning Tsotsi. Whether big or small, rural or urban, South African locations offer you a variety that doesn’t exist in other parts of the world. Be it two different oceans with incredible views from lavish beach houses, or breath taking natural scenery from the peaks of the Drakensberg mountains or Table Mountain in the Cape. Or the unending golden grassy plains of the wheat farms or the forever green tumbling fields found in KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape and Limpopo. From the indigenous wildlife found in the Kalahari desert or Kruger National Park or even the ageing business districts in Johannesburg,
Cape Town or even Durban that hold a story, that is yet to be told. South Africa has got it, now come and let’s celebrate it.
ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 43
Legendary Judges
Legendary judges Combined, they have more than a hundred years experience. From working on local and world stages to directing and producing multiple award winning productions, these industry professionals are simply the best. Creating an award winning film or television production can be a daunting task but getting recognition from these industry legends – makes it all worth it.
Dr John Kani
44 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Jerry Mofokeng Wa Makhetha
T
he South Africa Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) began in 2006 when industry experts decided to come together to celebrate and honour the work of film and television producers. Since then, the award ceremony has grown to become one of the most renowned film and television trophies in Africa. The SAFTAs have always stayed true to their roots by ensuring that the judging process is fair and transparent. This year a panel of 181 industry experts along with three industry legends, Dr John Kani, Jerry Mofokeng Wa Makhetha and Firdoze Bulbulia ensured that every nominee was given the same level of respect and recognition. We spoke to the three legends overseeing the judging process to find out how they went about selecting the winners of the 11th SAFTA Golden Horn. Our first judge is Dr John Kani, a South African theatre legend who has acted and written numerous plays which have received several accolades around the world. Some of Dr Kani’s theatrical work include The Tempest, The Island, Sizwe Banzi is Dead, Playland by Athol Fugard and My Children! My Africa! In 2002, Dr Kani’s first solo play Nothing but the Truth showcased at the Market Theatre before hitting the theatres in London and Namibia. Apart from his theatrical work, Dr Kani is also
known as an actor that has appeared on South African small screens like SABC 2’s Hillside series from 2005 until 2008 and from 2012 until 2013 he appeared on the telenovela, Inkaba which he created for Mzansi Magic. On the big screens, Dr Kani is known for his role in the American blockbuster Captain America: Civil War in which he spoke some Xhosa lines as well as The Ghost and the Darkness and Final Solution. As the 2010 receipient of the SAFTAs Lifetime achivement award, the executive trustee of the Market Theatre Foundation, founder and director of the Market Theatre Laboratory and chairman of the National Arts Council of SA, Dr Kani is the ideal candidate to oversee the SAFTAs judging process. “I want to make sure that the SAFTAs represent the demographic population of South Africa. As an overseeing judge I need to ensure that the judging process is fair, open, transparent and legitimate,” Dr Kani said. He admits that the industry has changed however, he feels the processes are still the same. “The quality of the work hasn’t changed, the service hasn’t changed. The industry has changed. It’s become a place that people wonder into when they cannot get a job. This makes it more challenging and more open,” Dr Kani said. He also added that this change isn’t necessarily a bad thing however, more needs to be done to
protect it. “The world is a stage and that is incredible but at the same time we have a surplus of people who operate in the industry and a good percentage of them haven’t got an iota of talent. There are also no gatekeeping measures in place. The unionisation of actors to give them a voice and solidarity to improve working conditions is not there. We are struggling as working artists are not working together,” Dr Kani said. Legendary Jerry Jerry Mofokeng Wa Makhetha is a star on the stage and on-screen. He has starred in some of the country’s most iconic films such as Cry, the Beloved Country, Mr. Bones, Lord of War, Mama Jack, Safe House, The Forgotten Kingdom and even Oscar winning Tsotsi. Jerry has also appeared on the small screen in numerous shows such as Mandela & De Klerk, Nna Sajene Kokobela, Soul City 8, 90 Plein Street, When We Were Black, Crossing the Line and Behind the Badge. Currently, he is playing the role of Neo Mokheti, a crime boss on the e.tv soapie Scandal! Since his stage acting career began, Jerry has directed more than 25 productions that have played in South Africa and the world. His work was finally recognised in 2013 when he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for Acting at the 7th annual South African Film ISSUE 02 | SAFTAs 11 45
Legendary Judges and Television Awards. Jerry’s impressive story and work experience make him a judge to be reckoned with on the SAFTA judging panel. He explains to us that as a judge one needs to be objective. “You’re looking at all the work in front of you and not what you like or don’t like about the person outside that work,” he said. He adds that sometimes there is human error and it can get difficult. “We also hoped that people did not fall prey to phone calls, inducements, or requests. We hoped to bring to the table a no fear or favour environment to the work that must be judged.” “Our work as overseeing judges was to ensure that all the 181 judges showed integrity, discipline, impartiality and confidentiality when they judged every candidate,” he said. He tells us that showing this professionalism and integrity in the work that you do is a problem amongst young people that come into the industry. “Young people need to stay with the basics as these will sustain the rest of their career. They should strive to be a great artist and a great person to work with. It’s a tragedy when you are a great artist and the worst human being to work with,” he said. Jerry admits that the problem he finds in the industry is that South Africans are not telling their own stories. He explains that his dream for the future is to tell South African stories. “My dream for the future is producing and directing. I’m finding my own stories, African stories that talk to me. Hopefully, in the next two years I will have something ready for you,” he said. Firdoze Bulbulia is an independent film, media, theatre producer, director and educator. Her journey began when she realised she could merge her love for art and theatre along with being an activist for women and children’s rights. After working on numerous developmental projects and programmes she finally established the South African Charter on Children’s Rights and represented Africa at human rights conferences internationally. Firdoze’s film and television productions have always stayed true to her passion for women and children empowerment. Her work has also promoted harmony and Ubuntu in the African continent. Firdoze has produced four feature films including The Algiers Murders. When Firdoze isn’t producing, she is the director of Africa’s Best Channel (ABC), a pan-African channel she launched in 2010 in Nigeria for children. Her award winning documentary films Africa’s Fight against HIV-AIDS and African Pen Pals are just some of the achievements which make her worthy to oversee the SAFTA judging process. She tells us what she deems a priority in
46 SAFTAs 11 | ISSUE 02
Firdoze Bulbulia
the judging process. “The most important aspect for me was to ensure that the process was fair and everyone felt comfortable to share their views and to listen to each other. Diversity of views and giving everyone a voice to share their opinion was paramount,” she said. Firdoze admits that she believes the South African film and television industry is too constrained. “The industry is still white, male dominated where Afrikaans content is well researched and produced. White people support each other and have more access to funding and professional crew and equipment.” “It is also more difficult for a black professional to raise funds and to negotiate with crew and equipment companies. Lack of education and training is also a concern for Black professionals and although the DTI offers a Film
Incentive the challenges for Black professionals are real as they must raise at least 10-25% of the budget first,” she said. Firdoze explains that the only way to fix these problems is for things to change. “Funding and political support are a priority. The DTI Film Incentive schemes must be radically improved so that the barriers to funding for Black professionals can be addressed and overcome. Skills development and training are paramount,” she said. Currently, Firdoze is working on building the first animation school for black children in Nigeria. “We are working on our first African animation feature Princess Adana and we are hoping to start the first Black Animation School. We would like to train at least 100 African animators and then to replicate this dream on the rest of the content,” she said.
The South African Ăžlm industry has reached new heights with content so compelling the world clamors for it. We set the trends and our content continues to mesmerise the global Ăžlm community.
National Film and Video Foundation
@nfvfsa www.nfvf.co.za