WELCOME TO AFRICA!
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
03
WELCOME TO AFRICA! S
outh Africa is simply a phenomenal filmmaking destination. In 2014, South Africa doubled for Washington DC, Islamabad, Kabul and Los Angeles, to name a few, and all these chameleon-like
locations are usually within an hour’s drive from the main city centres. But locations are merely the cherry on the cake; the immense level of skill within South Africa’s film industry is without equal. Kate Beyda, Senior Vice-President of Physical Production at Warner Bros, said, “The depth of skills that the crew have in South Africa is incredibly attractive, and in my mind, a competitive advantage over other countries. The fact that there is no language barrier is another great advantage. South Africa is simply a premier filmmaking country.” These sentiments are echoed by international and local filmmakers, which has ensured that the amount of film, TV and commercial productions have steadily increased over the years. Homeland Season 4 was filmed in Cape Town, Avengers: Age of Ultron filmed key scenes on the streets of Johannesburg, and the massive pirate ships of Black Sails towering above the Cape Town Film Studios have become a familiar sight for passersby. But South Africa is not the only African country gaining recognition in the filmmaking world. Morocco welcomed more than 30 international productions to its shores in 2014, including the latest in the Star Wars franchise. Nigeria’s booming film industry, known as Nollywood, is renowned for creating in excess of 1 500 films every year, which is about double that of the United States. So come to Africa and experience our skills, talent, locations and beauty for yourselves. Seeing really is believing. - Lance Gibbons Publisher
©Derek Serra
CONTENTS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
05
CONTENTS Welcome
03
Production Companies
60
Film Commissions
07
Creative Profiles
72
Film Financing and Incentives
08
Specialist Services Companies
80
A Legacy of Success
10
South Africa
86
Locations South Africa
12
Africa Film Facts
88
Service and Co-Production
38
Gauteng
90
Commercial Service
40
KwaZulu-Natal
92
Stills
42
Western Cape
94
Television
44
Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa
96
Film
46
Morocco
98
Creative South Africa – Directors
48
Namibia
100
Creative South Africa – Documentaries,
50
Nigeria
104
Tanzania
106
Animation, Music Videos
52
Diarise
108
Infrastructure – Gear, Suppliers
54
Funding Associations
110
Infrastructure – Crew, Artists
56
Fixers
112
Specialist Services
58
Directory
118
Pemba Island, Tanzania © Jesper Anhede
Post-Production
FILM COMMISSIONS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Gauteng Film Commission
Durban Film Office
The Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) develops, promotes
Established in 2003, the Durban Film Office (DFO) is a
and coordinates the film and television industry in South
division of the Department of Economic Development at the
Africa’s wealthiest province. Their aim is to position Gauteng
eThekwini Municipality. It is responsible for the promotion
as a world-class filmmaking destination and attract local and
and development of the film industry in the region. The goal
international investments in the sector.
is for Durban to be internationally recognised as a dynamic,
www.gautengfilm.org.za
creative, innovative and cost-effective production centre.
07
www.durbanfilmoffice.com
GAUTENG
FILM COMMISSIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA
KWAZULU-NATAL
KZN Film Commission Still a very young organisation, the KwaZulu-Natal Film
EASTERN CAPE WESTERN CAPE
Commission was officially launched in July 2012. Its main function is to develop and grow infrastructure and facilities for film and related industries in the province as well as facilitate policy, legislation and regulations necessary for the promotion of the industry. The commission also aims to attract foreign and local investment and to provide advice, support and funding incentives for filmmakers. www.durbanfilmoffice.com / www.kznded.gov.za
Cape Film Commission The Cape Film Commission (CFC) works closely with the
Zulu Coast Film Office
government agencies and industry representatives to
The ZCFO aims to re-establish with a positive drive the
promote Cape Town and the Western Cape as a filming
promotion and development of the film and stills industry
destination. Their vision is to position the region as a
within the region. Its objective is to promote and market
globally competitive film destination and to provide
the northern KwaZulu-Natal districts as prime locations for
superior, specialised services and information about the
filmmakers.
Cape film industry and to stimulate growth in the sector.
www.film-zulucoast.co.za
www.capefilmcommission.co.za
Wesgro
Eastern Cape Development The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) is
Wesgro is the official destination, marketing, investment and
an economic development agency working with provincial
trade promotion agency for the Western Cape. Located in
and national ministries, municipalities, chambers, private
Cape Town, it is the first point of contact for foreign buyers,
businesses and communities. Owned by the Eastern Cape
local exporters and investors wishing to take advantage of the
Government, it aims to attract new investors, stimulate
unlimited business potential in the region.
exports, facilitate development and grow existing businesses.
www.wesgro.co.za
www.ecdc.co.za
Courtesy of the shnit International Shortfilmfestival, PLAYGROUND Cape Town
City of Cape Town, Provincial Property and other related
08
FILM FINANCING AND INCENTIVES
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FILM FINANCING and Incentives
• Resulted in R1.952-
• Is highly profitable
billion in Qualifying SA
KEY FINDINGS
and self-financing in
Production Expenditure
SHOW THAT DURING
that for each R1.00
THE FINANCIAL YEAR
in rebate paid, SARS
ENDING MARCH 2014,
earned back R2.09
THE DTI FILM
in direct and indirect
INCENTIVE:
taxes (R1.098 billion
• Created 35 786
income vs. R524
FTE jobs
million rebate paid).
The Department of Trade and Industry (dti)
post-production work with:
The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) has extended its Film and
• QSAPE of R12-million and above, provided that at least 50% of
TV Production Incentive until March 2017.
the principal photography schedule is filmed in South Africa, for a minimum of four weeks.
Foreign Film and Television Production and Post-Production Incentive (Foreign Film) Objectives:
• QSAPPE of R1.5-million and above, provided that 100% of the postproduction is conducted in South Africa, for a minimum of two weeks. • An applicant must be a Special Purpose Corporate Vehicle
To encourage and attract large-budget films and television productions
(SPCV) incorporated in the Republic of South Africa solely for the
and post-production work that will contribute towards employment
purpose of the production and/or post-production of the film or
creation, enhancement of international profile, and increase the
television project.
country’s creative and technical skills base. SA Film & TV Production and Co-production (SA Film) Benefits:
Objectives:
• Shooting on location in South Africa, the incentive will be calculated
To support the local film industry and to contribute towards
as 20% of the Qualifying South African Production Expenditure
employment opportunities in South Africa.
(QSAPE). A cap of R50 million will be applicable. • Shooting on location in South Africa and conducting post-
Benefits:
production with a Qualifying South African Post-Production
The rebate is calculated as 35% of the first R6-million of QSAPE and
Expenditure (QSAPPE) of R1.5-million in South Africa, the incentive
25% of the QSAPE on amounts above R6-million.
will be calculated at 22,5% of QSAPE and QSAPPE (an additional 2,5%, cumulative 22,5%) • Shooting on location in South Africa and conducting post-
Eligible Enterprises: • Special Purpose Corporate Vehicles (SPCV) incorporated in the
production with a QSAPPE of R3-million and above in South Africa,
Republic of South Africa solely for the purpose of the production
the incentive will be calculated as 25% of QSAPE and QSAPPE (an
of the film or television project. The SPCV and parent company(ies)
additional 5%, cumulative 25%).
must have a majority of South African shareholders of whom at
• Foreign post-production with QSAPPE of R1.5-million, the incentive is calculated at 22,5% of QSAPPE. • Foreign post-production with QSAPPE of R3-million and above the incentive is calculated at 25% of QSAPPE.
least one shareholder must play an active role in the production and be accredited in that role. • The following formats are eligible: feature films, tele-movies, television drama series, documentaries and animation. • The incentive is available only to qualifying South African
Eligible Enterprises:
productions with a total production budget of R2.5-million
Foreign-owned qualifying productions and South African qualifying
and above.
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
FILM FINANCING AND INCENTIVES
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The South African Emerging Black Filmmakers Incentive (SA
South African films and previously disadvantaged individuals producing
Emerging Black Film)
them. Production funding is given for feature films, short films and
The South African Emerging Black Filmmakers Incentive is available to
documentaries. In addition, the NFVF has set aside a R1 million grant
South African black-owned qualifying productions.
each year for the purchase of archive material for feature-length and hour-long documentaries.
Objectives: To nurture and capacitate emerging black filmmakers to take up big
Marketing and Distribution Funding:
productions and contribute towards employment opportunities.
The objective of the grant is to provide financial support to filmmakers and distributors to promote their product at film markets and festivals
Benefits:
effectively. Innovative marketing and distribution strategies, particularly
A rebate of up to 50% for the first R6-million of the Qualifying South
in-line with NFVF objectives with respect to animation, digital and
African Production Expenditure (QSAPE) and 25% thereafter. No cap is
other new technologies/media will be supported.
applicable for this rebate. Contact Details: Contacts Details:
Tel: +27 11 483 0880
Wendy Mphahlele
Email: info@nfvf.co.za
Email: mphahlelew@thedti.gov.za
Address: 87 Central Street, Houghton, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2198
Tel: +27 (12) 394 1876 Lehlohonolo Mokhosi
Industrial Development Corporation
Email: lmokhosi@thedti.gov.za
The IDC is a self-financing, state-owned national development finance
Tel: +27 (12) 394 5632
institution, which plays a key role in financing South African films,
www.thedti.gov.za
especially co-productions. The IDC generally caps its investments at
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)
49% of the overall budget. The IDC Media and Motion Pictures SBU is the driving force behind a sustainable South African Film industry and
The National Film and Video Foundation is the body mandated to grow
will continue making a difference by helping South Africa Filmmakers
the local film industry. They provide development, production funding,
to turn their creative visions into a reality
and marketing and distribution funding, capped at R1-million. How does it fund the Motion Pictures Value Chain? Development Funding:
The Media and Motion Pictures business unit supports the
The NFVF considers development as any work undertaken to put
development of a sustainable motion picture value chain in South
an idea or concept into writing with an intention of creating a
Africa through funding the production of feature films, television
script including research undertaken in a documentary, a short or
shows, animation and documentaries.
a feature film whether fiction or real life. The NFVF also provides financial support to the development of television concepts that
Who should apply for finance?
can be formatted, sold globally and licensed for remake rights or for
New or existing companies within the Media and Motion Pictures
syndication.
sector that need funding of up to R1-million. Funding can be structured in the most appropriate manner utilising a
Education and Training Funding:
wide range of instruments to meet the needs of the business including:
In order to stimulate and advance skills development, meet the current
• Debt/equity
needs of industry, and to ensure the industry’s future growth and
• Quasi-equity
competitiveness, the NFVF provides funding for national bursaries,
• Bridging finance
international bursaries and grants to organisations that offer training
• Venture capital
and development programmes. Contact Details: Production Funding:
Tel: +27 11 269 3000
One of the NFVF’s strategic objectives is to increase the number of
Address: 19 Fredman Drive, Sandown, Sandton, 2146
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A LEGACY OF SUCCESS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
© Joe Alblas
A Legacy of
SUCCESS
S
outh Africa is a powerhouse on the continent, with a vibrant and globally competitive film industry that has continued to grow year on year. It covers 1.2 million square kilometres of land with a stunning assortment of scenery and cityscapes
that attract even the most frugal of filmmakers. From mountain ranges and urban epicentres to garden routes and sandy beaches, this unique country has a host of locations just waiting to be discovered. South Africa has 11 official languages and a population of 48.6 million – 62% of which are located in urban zones. Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg are pivotal areas in South Africa’s film industry, with a healthy pool of film studios, creative talent, actors, equipment and crews. Each of these cities has its own film commission, with some doubling as provincial commissions and economic development agencies. Local and international filmmakers will find various types of incentives and funding available through these organisations. They also offer a wealth of information on the local film and television industry, as well as support, advice, special services and investment opportunities.
International films and TV series shot in South Africa in 2014
SPIER FILMS • Karsten og Petra
FILM AFRIKA:
TRILOGY CREATIVE STUDIOS
• Black Sails
• The Unexplained Files
• Dominion • Lying Makes You Happy
ANTON ERNST • Momentum
TWO OCEANS PRODUCTIONS: • Superbad
TENDEKA MATATU
• Rosa 2
• Tiger House
• Grzimek • Unfriend
KALAHARI PICTURES • SAF3
OUT OF AFRICA: • BlueStone 42
JOHAN KRUGER
• Book of Negroes
• Prisoner of War
• Our Girl • Shark Killer (Ace Hunter)
ZENHQ
• The Wrong Mans
• Dias Santana • The Kardashian Show
MOONLIGHTING: • The Avengers: Age of Ultron
MEHBOOB BAWA / FILM AD:
• Curse of Hendon/Grimsby
• Raja Natwarlal (Reverie Entertainment and UTV)
• Eye in the Sky
• Mr X - 3D (Vishesh Films)
• Homeland
• Jagga Jasoos (Picture Shuru Entertainment and Disney India)
• The Last Face
• Khamoshiyan (Vishesh Films)
• Tremors
• Hamari Adhuri Kahani (Vishesh Films)
A LEGACY OF SUCCESS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
11 © Joe Alblas
Book of Negroes
SHOT IN THE CAPE REGION:
• Wildlife Documentary – Khazakstan TV
• I am a Celebrity Get Me out of Here – Denmark
• Ulrich Siedl film – Austria – DO
• Wine (BBC Series)
• Siba’s Table – Cooking Channel USA – Pacific UK
• Fear Factor (India) – Endemol
• Dare 2 Dance – India – Gateway Film Services
• Double Echo – feature film
• Extreme Destinations – Travel Channel USA –
• DAAD Film Project (Germany)
• House Hunters International (Off the Grid) – USA – Leopard Films
• Soundtrack South Africa (Belgium ) Geronimo
• TV series from Hungary - Rapid Blue
• Various Indian Productions – Mindblowing Productions
• Shark – BBC UK
• Untitled UK production – Windfall Films
• Ray of Life – Italy- EBN Productions
• Reality video for UK – Endelman • Big Kitchen (UK reality series) - Windfall films
KZN FILM COMMISSION:
• Holiday Show (UK) - ITV
• Zorawar (Epic Entertainment, feature film)
• Feature Film (India) - Vishesh Films
• Memories (Kro-NCRV, TV series)
• Shepherds and Butchers – Enigma Films
• Face of Africa Germany (Bird Films, TV series)
LOCATIONS A- Z
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Our experiences here are off the charts. - Homeland star Mandy Patinkin
“
Cape Town has been good to me, I love being here. - Homeland star Claire Danes, in City Press
13 LOCATIONS A- Z www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
LOCATIONS SOUTH AFRICA
Courtesy of Cape Nature, Kogelberg Nature Reserve ŠScott N Ramsay
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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AQUILA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
photographers and movie makers, with the recently released Mad Max:
Set in the pristine Southern Karoo Highlands against a backdrop
Fury Road as a prime example.
of dramatic mountains, the four star Aquila Private Game Reserve offers an exciting taste of real Africa just two short hours from
CONTACT DETAILS
Cape Town by road.
Head Office: 307 Mount Curtis Building, Main Road, Sea Point,
Aquila is home to an enormous variety of game, including the Big 5.
Cape Town, South Africa
Two- to three-hour game drives are a perfect way to see the animals
t: +27 861 SAFARI (723274)
(in four-wheel-drive vehicles, quad bikes or on horseback).
+27 21 430 7260
As a film location, Aquila offers wide vistas, hilltop locations and Karoo
e: corp@aquilasafari.com
scrubland, and has been the location of choice to advertising agencies,
www.aquilasafari.com
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
LOCATIONS A- Z 16
Kogelberg Nature Reserve ©Scott N Ramsay
Trout Dam, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
Assegaaibosch Homestead, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
Cederberg ©Scott N Ramsay
LOCATIONS A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
17 Kogelberg Nature Reserve ©Scott N Ramsay Wolfberg Arch ©Dawid De Bruin
CAPENATURE
CONTACT DETAILS t: +27 21 200 1388
CapeNature invites you to experience our breath-taking landscapes,
After Hours: +27 82 880 4649
including mountains, dams, waterfalls, rivers and in some cases tarred
e: locations@permitz.co.za
roads leading up magnificent passes.
www.permitz.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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CTICC
CONTACT DETAILS
The CTICC, located in the heart of the city, provides a flexible meeting
Convention Square,
facility with 11 200m2 of dedicated exhibition space, two raked
1 Lower Long Street,
auditoria seating 1 500 and 620 delegates, a 1 876m 2 ballroom, 33
Cape Town 8001, South Africa
break-out rooms, and an integrated five star hotel. Other than thrilling
t: +27 21 410 5000
audiences with live productions, the CTICC provides the perfect
f: +27 21 410 5001
combination of vast indoor spaces, with state-of-the-art facilities
e: info@cticc.co.za
and technologies to accommodate film shoots of any kind. Supplying
twitter: twitter.com/CTICC_Official
everything from lighting and rigging services, to catering for the film
facebook: facebook.com/CTICC
crew, the CTICC can make your film shoot come alive with possibilities.
www.cticc.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE
Today the JEC hosts: Exhibitions, Conferences, Cocktail and Themed
The Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) is South Africa’s largest purpose-
Events, Product and Media Launches as well as private and intimate
built exhibition, convention and events venue. For over three decades
functions such as Weddings and Year-End Parties.
the JEC has kept pace with the remarkable growth of the local exhibition and conference industries, evolving into a world-class facility
CONTACT DETAILS
that offers exhibitors, visitors, and delegates a first rate experience.
Cnr Rand Show & Nasrec Roads, JHB
It has become the permanent home to some of Africa’s most
t: +27 11 494 1920
popular consumer shows, including the Rand Show, as well as world-
f: +27 11 494 1005
class trade events such as Automechanika, Joburg International Motor
e: info@expocentre.co.za
Show and Electra Mining.
www.expocentre.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION (GFC) CONTACT DETAILS An agency of the Gauteng Provincial Government tasked with
56 Main Street,
the development and promotion of the audiovisual industries in
Johannesburg, 2108
Gauteng through:
South Africa
• Production and project support
PO Box 61601 Marshalltown 2107
• Distribution and marketing
t: +27 11 833 0409
• Skills development and training
e: info@gautengfilm.org.za
• Permit facilitation and locations
www.gautengfilm.org.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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KWAZULU-NATAL FILM COMMISSION
CONTACT DETAILS
From the Valley of a Thousand Hills to the pick of the Drankensburg
Durban, 4001
Mountains, the majestic beasts in the wild and the warm waters of the
t: +27 31 325 0205
Indian Ocean coupled with all year warm weather, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, offers breathtaking landscapes both inland and along the coastline.
1st Floor, Marine Building, 22 Dorothy Nyembe Street,
+27 31 325 0202 www.kznfilmcommission.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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KURLAND HOTEL
renowned long, languid Sunday brunches at Katarina’s at The Barn,
The 5-star Kurland Hotel is located near the beautiful beach resorts of
which opens seasonally and offers an extensive bistro-style menu.
Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley on the Garden Route. Kurland is ideal for boutique or large corporate events or film shoots
CONTACT DETAILS
due to its vast 700 hectare Estate boasting incredible natural beauty.
Kurland Hotel, The Crags, N2,
There are endless possibilities for truly unique functions – weddings,
Plettenberg Bay, 6602, South Africa
meetings and conferences in the Polo Pavilion, a marquee on the lawn
t: +27 44 534 8082
or multiple locations throughout the Estate for a shoot.
f: +27 44 534 8699
The award-winning Kurland Restaurant presents an ever-changing
e: reservations@kurland.co.za
menu and is perfect for decadent lunches, romantic dinners or the
www.kurland.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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CONTACT DETAILS LION PARK
Corner Malibongwe Drive & R114 Road, Honeydew, South Africa
• Magnificent unspoilt wild bush locations
t: +27 87 150 0100 / +27 71 681 6695
• Animal handlers/trainers/wranglers with 40 years
+27 76 187 3883 / +27 76 431 0545
combined experience • Vast range of predators and herbivores
e: info@lionpark.com www.lionpark.com
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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Apartment-style living. Your home away from home.
Moonlighting: “It’s like home.”
Juice Films: “All you want under one roof.”
Film Afrika: “Rockwell indeed does ROCK.”
Velocity Films: “Great location, setting and offering.”
GS Productions: “Best fun we’ve had in a long time.”
LOCATIONS A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
First Productions: “The people, the vibe, the surroundings = the best!”
Endemol: “What a find!”
ROCKWELL Centrally and conveniently located in trendy Greenpoint where the energy of the city, V&A Waterfront, and some of the trendiest shopping and dining venues are just a few steps away. Expansive, spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, generous
CONTACT DETAILS
lounge areas and private patios affording magnificent views makes for
t: +27 21 421 0015
the optimal place to stay and shoot for any and all film and TV crew
f: +27 21 421 0017
The Rockwell All Suite Hotel & Apartments truly is your home
e: reservations@rockwellhotel.co.za
away from home…
www.rockwellhotel.co.za
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LOCATIONS A- Z
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ZULU COAST FILM OFFICE THE ULTIMATE FILM DESTINATION The Zulu Coast offers a one-stop prime environment for filmmaking and offers an attractive and well-packaged deal of healthcare,
CONTACT DETAILS
transportation, accommodation, airport, harbour, wildlife/conservation
t: +27 35 799 2582
and culture/heritage. The office endeavours to create a film-friendly
f: +27 86 775 4013
environment in the entire region. Our mandate is to facilitate filming
www.film-zulucoast.co.za
opportunities within the Northern KZN in order to boost the economy
facebook: www.facebook.com/ZuluCoastFilmOffice
through film as a sector.
twitter: @ZCFO
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I love shooting there and I’d never hesitate in going back there to shoot. South Africa not only was the perfect setting for the film, it just happens to also be very cost-effective and have world-class film crews. - Chappie co-producer Victoria Burkhart
“
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FILMMAKER’S GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA
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FILMMAKER’S GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA
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FILMMAKER’S GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA 38
Commercial Service
40
Stills
42
Television
44
Film
46
Directors
48
Documentaries, Animation, Music Videos
50
Post-Production
52
Infrastructure: Gear and Supplies
54
Infrastructure: Crew And Artists
56
Specialist Services
58
U2’s This Is Where You Find Me Now, directed by Bryan Little © Filipa Domingues
Service and Co-Production
38
SERVICE AND CO-PRODUCTION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
© Showtime
© SyFy
Claire Danes, star of Homeland.
Tom Wisdom in Dominion.
© Starz Entertainment
© Sky1
Black Sails
The series Strike Back was filmed in location in South Africa and Hungary.
SERVICE
and Co-Production
2
014 was South Africa’s busiest service season yet, with over
expenditure per year, according to 2013-2014 figures from The
25 international shoots, from blockbusters like Avengers:
Department of Trade and Industry’s incentive schemes – which are
The Age of Ultron to award-winning TV series like Homeland,
the most attractive in Africa.
Wallander and Black Sails.
The sector started booming after South Africa’s first democratic
A-list stars became everyday sightings in Cape Town, where Sean
elections in 1994, so many of the crew now have 20 years
Penn and Charlize Theron filmed The Last Face; Sacha Baron Cohen
experience working on international productions, increasingly as
and Penelope Cruz shot Grimsby; Helen Mirren and Aaron Paul
heads of department. South African crew have consistently featured
starred in Eye in the Sky; and Bond girls Bérénice Marlohe and Olga
at The Emmy Awards in recent years and have earned rave reviews
Kurylenko filmed Prisoners of War and Momentum respectively.
from many of the world’s top directors, including Clint Eastwood and
This is nothing new: South Africa has hosted hundreds of
the late Anthony Minghella.
international films and TV shows in recent years, starring everyone
As Kate Beyda, senior vice-president of physical production at
from Angelina Jolie to Leonardo di Caprio, from Samuel L Jackson
Warner Bros, says, “The depth of skills that the crew have here is
to Reese Witherspoon, from Daniel Craig to Robert Pattinson.
incredibly attractive, and in my mind, a competitive advantage over
In the last five years, international service jobs and official co-
other countries. The fact that there is no language barrier is another
productions have been growing at 9.4% per annum, and now
great advantage.”
generate nearly R2-billion in qualifying South African production
Of course, South Africa’s biggest attraction remains its versatility,
SERVICE AND CO-PRODUCTION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
39 © Jasin Boland
© Warner Bros Entertainment 2014
• Won Emmy-awards (Generation Kill, Gettysburg, America: The Story of Us, The Triangle)
• Topped the US box office (Safe House, Chappie and Chronicle)
Charlize Theron (right) is Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road. © Chronicle
FILMS AND TV SERIES SHOT IN SOUTH AFRICA HAVE:
• Received Oscar nominations (District
• Been nominated
9, Blood Diamond,
for Golden Globes
Invictus, Mandela:
(The Girl, Machine
Long Walk To Freedom
Gun Preacher, 24:
and Hotel Rwanda)
Redemption, Endgame)
Dane DeHaan, star of Chronicle
continents in Cape Town, and Homeland to double South Africa for Kabul, Islamabad City, New York, Rawalpindi, Virginia and DC. “It’s proving to be very flexible,” said Homeland star Clare Danes. She later told CityPress that, while she travels extensively, Cape Town is “one of the most beautiful places I have been to one on the planet… It is breathtakingly beautiful.” South Africa not only offers diverse locations within an hour’s drive; it also offers the studios and production design capacity to replicate anywhere from Antarctica to Zambia to outer-space. Sara Spring, senior vice president of feature production at Paramount, says, “Cape Town Film Studios are state-of-the-art and the level of craftsmanship on top of that far surpassed any expectations… I look forward to bringing movies here.”
“
International service jobs and official co-productions have been growing at 9.4% per annum, and now generate nearly R2-billion in qualifying South African production expenditure per year, according to 2013-2014 figures from The Department of Trade and Industry’s incentive schemes – which are the most attractive in Africa.
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which allowed Eye in the Sky to replicate five countries on four
40
COMMERCIAL SERVICE
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
COMMERCIAL SERVICE
I
f you brought your next ad to South Africa, you’d be in good
style stunts.” Incidentally, that blue sky everywhere in the ad was
company. Very good company, like The Gunn Report’s Most
filmed during the South African ‘winter.’
Awarded Director for 2014, Andreas Nilsson; Shots’ Director of
When Paul WS Anderson needed to spoof Hollywood stunts being
the Year for 2014, Lance Acord; and Cannes Grand Prix winner
sabotaged by Volkswagen’s safety features, he similarly chose South
Juan Cabral from MJZ, The Gunn Report’s Most Awarded Production
Africa. After the shoot, John Brocklehurst, Mob Pictures MD and EP,
Company in the world for 2014.
told The Location Guide, “I can honestly say we had one of the best
Cabral came to Johannesburg last year to shoot a dreamy IKEA
crews I have ever shot with. The stuntmen were phenomenal, nothing
commercial about a woman tumbling out of the clouds and onto
was any trouble and they moved super-quick but always safely.”
a series of beds. When The Location Guide asked MJZ producer
With film commissions in all the key provinces, South Africa offers
Stephen Johnson about their choice of location, he summed up the
a supportive government infrastructure. “Cape Town in general is
reasoning by saying, “South Africa is a hi-tech centre for Hollywood-
a very film-friendly city with an international, big-city look,” says
COMMERCIAL SERVICE
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
41
Shots’ Ad of the Year (Gorgeous’ Guinness Cloud, Stink’s ADS SERVICED
Samsung King of
IN SOUTH AFRICA
TV, and Partizan’s
HAVE:
Virgin Flying In The
© The Stunt Company / Ikea
• Been nominated for
Face of Ordinary)
• Screened at the Superbowl (Hungry • Won the Grand Prix
Man’s Coca-Cola
at Cannes Lions
Chase ad)
(Partizan’s Fox Sports campaign)
The dreamy IKEA commercial by Stillking Films.
Cape Town last year for BMW ‘Driftmob’ and its stunt drivers. International commercials have been doubling South Africa as every continent in every era for decades, but with Africa rising, South Africa is increasingly being used to double for the rest of the continent, like in the Guinness ‘Sapeurs’ campaign, which won seven awards at Cannes Lions in 2014, including two Silvers in the film category.
“
South Africa is a hi-tech centre for Hollywood-style stunts. Incidentally, that blue sky everywhere in the ad was filmed during the South African winter.
“
Partizan’s Julian Holland, who stopped traffic for two days in central
42
STILLS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
STILLS
• Paid R57-million in direct taxes to SARS
• Contributed R 0.86 billion to South Africa’s GDP (direct and indirect spend)
KEY FINDINGS OF THE 2013/2014 SOUTH
• Created 467 FTE jobs
AFRICAN ASSOCIATION OF STILLS PRODUCERS (SAASP) SEASON RESEARCH SHOW THAT THE STILLS SECTOR:
• Hosted 4015
• Delivered and economic multiplier of 2.89
• Represents more than
International
70% of all filming
guests for a total of 36
permits issued by the
135 accumulative days
City of Cape Town.
STILLS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
The service industry is centered around Cape Town, which offers one of the most advanced stills infrastructures in the world. Experienced production companies, crew, gear-rental companies and post-production facilities complement Cape Town’s diverse locations and stunning models. © Bryan Traylor
A
“
“
43
ccording to the South African Association of Stills Producers, South Africa hosts over 100 000 shoot days per year, generating over R700-million. Name a celebrity photographer and chances are they’ve shot here, from
Annie Leibovitz to Jaime Travezan to Nadav Kander (who was actually raised in Johannesburg) to Viviane Sassen. The service industry is centered around Cape Town, which offers one of the most advanced stills infrastructures in the world. Experienced production companies, crew, gear-rental companies and post-production facilities complement Cape Town’s diverse locations and stunning models. But South Africa is more than a location; our photographers are regular features at all the major awards shows. In 2014, Jürgen Schadeberg received the Cornel Capa Lifetime Achievement Award from The International Center for Photography; Brent Stirton was named Wildlife Photojournalist of the Year; Mikhael Subotzky and Zanele Muholi were shortlisted for the Duetsche Borse Photography Prize; James Oatway came second in the POYi Newspaper Photographer of the Year competition; Sipho Mpongo was awarded one of The Magnum Foundation’s human rights fellowships; and Clive Stewart, Des Ellis, Bryan Traylor, David Prior, Guy Neveling and Michael Meyersfeld all cracked the top 100 of Luerzer’s Archive’s ranking of the the top advertising photographers of the last five years. These are just the latest in a long line of accolades for South African photographers, like David Goldblatt and Peter Magubane winning Lifetime Achievement Awards from The International Center for Photography; Greg Du Toit being named Wildlife Photographer of the Year in 2013; Jodie Bieber winning the World Press Photo of the Year Award in 2010; Gideon Mendel winning six World Press Photo Awards; and Greg Marinovich and Kevin Carter winning the Pulitzer in the 1990s.
© Michael Meyersfeld
Bryan Traylor’s Escape
Michael Meyersfeld for Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG convertible.
44
TELEVISION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
TELEVISION
© Dirk Visser
O
ver the last decade, South Africa has emerged as a popular destination for TV series, but the country is also positioning itself as a content producer, both for Africa’s relatively untapped local audience of over a billion
people and for the international marketplace. South African comedian Trevor Noah broke out internationally this year with a regular slot on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart which he will take over, while Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola, a satirical news
show produced by Diprente, has been nominated in the Best Comedy category at The International Emmy Awards for the past two years. South Africa has had a number of International Emmy nominations over the years for shows like City Slickers, Home Affairs, Hopeville, MasterChef South Africa, Sokhulu & Partners, Sorted and Stokvel. This kind of international affirmation isn’t unusual; just look at South African production company Quizzical Pictures. In 2012, their drama
Charly’s Cake Angels
Intersexions won a Peabody. At the 2010 Rose D’Or Awards, Hopeville
TELEVISION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Over the last decade, South Africa has emerged as a popular destination for TV series, but the country is also positioning itself as a content producer, both for Africa’s relatively untapped local audience of over a billion people and for the international marketplace.
“
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45
© MasterChef South Africa
MasterChef South Africa won the Drama and Miniseries category, while A Country Imagined
notably in video-on-demand services, where MTN launched
was nominated in the Arts Documentary category.
Frontrow, Times Media launched Vidi, and Altech launched Node,
While South Africa has been importing international formats for
creating more demand for South African content locally.
years, 2014 was a breakthrough, as Cooked In Africa Films licensed International – their first format from South Africa.
10 Internationally Successful South African TV shows
As a sign of the growing interest in African food shows
• Late Nite News With Loyiso Gola
internationally, the first two seasons of Ultimate Braai Master
• Ultimate Braai Master
were screened to over 100 million viewers worldwide in more than
• MasterChef South Africa
280 territories, while Cooked in Africa has delivered in excess
• Charly’s Cake Angels
of 200 hours of programming to broadcasters as diverse as BBC
• Hopeville
International, Discovery, The Food Network, National Geographic,
• Home Affairs
Sky, and Travel Channel.
• Intersexions
While digital migration remains as mythical as a turnaround at the
• Sokhulu & Partners
public broadcaster, The South African Broadcasting Corporation,
• Sorted
there have been a number of new entrants into the market recently,
• Stokvel
Ultimate Braai Master as a format to multiple-Emmy winners all3media
46
FILM
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
FILM S
ubsidised by a supportive government funding environment, South Africa’s local film industry has been exploring multiple business models for its first 20 years of democracy. The South African box office is relatively small, with
the most popular – local or international - film each year rarely topping $4-million. This means international partnerships are key on larger budget films. These generally rely on international stars to bring in foreign funding and audiences. For example, despite poor reviews, Vehicle 19 turned a tidy profit
by casting the right international star – Paul Walker (RIP) - in an otherwise local film. Similarly, Idris Elba and Naomie Harris starred in Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom, a South African-British co-production that earned BAFTA, Oscar and Golden Globe nominations. And Triggerfish has positioned itself as the Pixar of Africa with two features, Adventures in Zambezia and Khumba, that used a combination of local animation and A-list international voices to gross over $60-million together at the global box office. Most promisingly, South Africa’s biggest success, District 9, proved that – with A-list studio and producer support - international audiences could embrace a South African story with local actors. Neill Blomkamp’s debut earned four Oscar nominations and over $210-million internationally. To encourage this kind of international partnership approach, South Africa has signed co-production treaties with Canada (1997), Italy (2003), Germany (2004), the United Kingdom (2007), France (2010), Australia (2010), New Zealand (2011) and Ireland (2012). Official co-productions are regarded as national productions in each of the co-producing countries, so are eligible to apply for the local funding available in the respective territories. Co-productions also facilitate access to each country’s domestic markets. The international box office isn’t a level playing field though, so many filmmakers are rather focusing on making low-budget films that can recoup locally. Leon Schuster is the closest thing to a safe bet in South African filmmaking: his slapstick comedies dominate the local box office top 10, making enough money in the country that they don’t need to travel to turn a profit. Afrikaans, one of South Africa’s 11 official languages, although there are concerns this sector is becoming over-traded. Of course, filmmaking isn’t just about the money. Auteurs like Oliver Schmitz and Oliver Hermanus haven’t set any box office records, but have made critically-acclaimed festival films, like Life, Above All and Skoonheid. A new generation of young filmmakers – like Sibs Shongwe-La-Mer, Jenna Bass, and Ernest Nkosi - are now also courting festival acclaim with their micro-budget, contemporary stories about urban Africa. The continent is home to an untapped audience of over a billion people, while African festivals and niche VOD sites are popping
“
A new generation of young filmmakers – like Sibs ShongweLa-Mer, Jenna Bass, and Ernest Nkosi - are now also courting festival acclaim with their micro-budget, contemporary stories about urban Africa.
“
Filmmakers have also found a small, loyal market locally for films in
FILM
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
47 © Life, Above All
© Triggerfish
Khumba, a mega-hit for Triggerfish
Life, Above All
© Keith Bernstein
up across the Diaspora. So it’s inevitable that South Africans are starting to look at their neighbours on the continent for partnerships. Big World Cinema, in particular, has done this successfully, with pioneering collaborations like Viva Riva and Stories of Our Lives, which won the Teddy Award at the 2015 Berlinale, where it also came second in the Panorama Audience Award.
10 recent South African films to watch • Necktie Youth, which Cineuropa called ‘probing, polemic and probably best in show’ at Berlin in 2015 • Thina Sobabili: The Two of Us, winner of the Audience Award at the 2015 Pan African Film Festival • Khumba, hit South African animation that sold over a million tickets in China in 2015 • Four Corners, winner of the South African Film and Television Award for Best Film in 2015 • Love the One You Love, winner of Best South African film at Durban International Film Festival in 2014 • Of Good Report, winner of the South African Film and Television Award for Best Film in 2014 • iNumber Number – Universal bought the remake rights after the crime thriller premiered at Toronto in 2013 • Adventures in Zambezia – breakout South African animation that grossed over $34-million internationally in 2012 • Life, Above All, winner of the Francois Chalais award at Cannes and shortlisted for the 2011 Oscar for Best Foreign Film
Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
• Skoonheid, winner of the Queer Palm at Cannes in 2011
48
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA | DIRECTORS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA: Directors
S
outh Africa has produced more than its fair share of the
South African directors are regular features at international award
world’s top commercials directors, including Directors Guild
shows like Cannes Lions. Kim Geldenhuys, then with Egg Films, won
of America Commercials Director of the Year winners Leslie
Gold for Topsy’s Selinah there in 2010 and South African directors
Dektor, David Cornell, and Peter Smillie.
have featured every year since.
Velocity Films’ Keith Rose may have earned similar status if he’d
2014 was a modest year internationally by South African standards,
emigrated. But even with comparatively smaller local budgets, he’s
but still enlarged the awards cabinet.
earned a place in the Clio TV Hall of Fame and won several Golds
Rose won Bronze at Cannes for Topsy’s Kevin, which was also named
at Cannes Lions, where he was the jury president in the Film Craft
Creative Circle Ad of the Year. Gentlemen Films’ Greg Rom similarly
Category in 2011.
picked up a Bronze at The Clios for Music: Short Form, thanks to the
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA | DIRECTORS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
49
Sigur Ros score on his Mandela Lives spot for National Geographic. But the most successful wasn’t a traditional TV commercial at all; rather One Rand Man was a series of short films for Sanlam about a guy who has his salary paid in one rand coins, which sparked a national conversation about budgets and saving. Directed by Arcade Content’s Rob Smith, One Rand Man won five Golds and a Silver at The Midas Awards. One Rand Man was also named Creative Circle Digital Ad of the Year and won the only Branded Content Gold at The Bookmark Awards. Branded content is finally taking off in South Africa, creating a burst of fresh optimism in the advertising sector. This has contributed to a burst of high-profile new companies, including Egg Films launching Arcade Content, Kim Geldenhuys opening 0307, Lorraine Smit and Melina McDonald founding Darling, and Bruno Bossi introducing Carbon Films. As usual, the local Loerie Awards was a two-horse race between Velocity Films and Egg Films, both regular features in The Gunn Report over the years. Velocity was the most awarded production company in the Advertising categories, while Egg Films was the most awarded overall. Your Girlfriend beat them both to win the only Gold for TV & Cinema Commercials though: for Trevor Clarence’s funny Chicken Licken commercial, about the lengths a scrawny guy is willing to go to for a Big John burger. With the local commercials market flooded, South African directors are again looking beyond South Africa’s borders for work. For example, Egg Films’ Terence Neale – the most awarded director at The Loerie Awards in 2014 - signed to Ridley Scott & Associates for international representation, while South African directors are increasingly in demand across the continent. No one is resting on their laurels though: as Rose said when collecting his Loeries Hall of Fame award, “I always believe that I’ve
The Reader for Bell’s Whisky by Velocity Films.
still got that one big ad to deliver.” All images © Velocity Films
Keith Rose and Ogilvy Johannesburg won Bronze at Cannes for Topsy Foundation’s (now Witkoppen’s) ad Kevin.
50
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA | DOCUMENTARIES, ANIMATION, MUSIC VIDEOS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA: Documentaries, Animation, Music Videos
© Sunrise Marketing Group
S
outh African music videos had their best year ever in 2014. Egg Films’ Terence Neale directed Skrillex’s Ragga Bomb, a gripping tale of a post-apocalyptic Johannesburg turf-war, complete with trolley-surfer scavengers, a glow-in-the-
dark dancehall, and a final fight sequence that gives the next Star Wars a lot to live up. Ragga Bomb is now on over 40 million views
on YouTube and was named Best Music Video of 2015 at the One Screen Awards, produced by the One Club. This was just the latest in a string of accolades for the music video, which has been featured everywhere from Pitchfork to Rolling Stone and also won three Golds at The Loerie Awards and a Bronze Clio Award. Other groundbreaking work from South Africa included Die Antwoord’s Pitbull Terrier, directed by Ninja, which was nominated for Best Urban Video – Budget at the UK Music Video Awards; U2’s This Is Where You Find Me Now, directed by Fly On The Wall’s Bryan Little; and Dane Dodds’ Larney, Jou Poes music video for Dookoom, which sparked a national conversation about the treatment of farm
Sunrise Productions’ childrens’ series Jungle Beat.
labourers. Arcade Content’s Kyle Lewis has also been on a roll since
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
CREATIVE SOUTH AFRICA | DOCUMENTARIES, ANIMATION, MUSIC VIDEOS
51
© Filipa Domingues
© Unearthed
U2’s This Is Where You Find Me Now, directed by Bryan Little.
Jolynn Minnaar’s fracking expose, Unearthed.
2014 for The Parlotones’ Sleepwalker. Similarly, Rehad Desai’s Miners Shot Down is the most acclaimed South African documentary of recent years. The story of the Marikana massacre of mine-workers by police, Miners Shot Down won The Vaclav Havel Jury Award at One World, The Camera Justitia Award at Movies That Matter Human Rights Festival, and six other international awards. Other strong documentaries from South Africa last year include Jolynn Minnaar’s fracking expose, Unearthed, which won the Green Award at Sheffield Doc/Fest, as well as audience awards at
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There is this intensely creative, unapologetically young and curious energy in South Africa that I sense and subscribe to; it’s really infectious and I point my camera in that direction.
“
winning the South African Music Award for Best Music Video in
- Lebogang Rasethaba, director of Future Sound of Mzansi
Encounters and Tri Continental Film Festival; and Francois Verster’s The Dream of Shahrazad, which screened at IDFA as part of the
of Sunrise Productions’ childrens’ series Jungle Beat is as popular
Masters Programme.
as ever, with one episode chosen as a ‘Best of the Fest’ film at
Animation is a key growth area for South Africa. Triggerfish is
Palm Springs International Short Film Festival. And Shy The Sun’s
positioning itself as the Pixar of Africa, having produced two
The Curse of The Sad Mummy for League of Legends is on over five
features – Khumba and Adventures in Zambezia – that have grossed
million views on YouTube and likely to add even more awards to their
over $60-million at the international box office. The latest season
already-overflowing cabinet.
52
POST-PRODUCTION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
© Refinery
Kite
S
POSTPRODUCTION outh Africa is renowned for its cutting-edge, post-production
Video Category. Seale Street Post’s Daniel Mitchell was recently
facilities. From the latest technology to award-winning and
nominated by the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs)
experienced talent, the country is more than capable of
for Best Achievement in Editing for his work on fracking documentary
accommodating both technical and creative requirements.
Unearthed. In all, Searle Street Post worked on four nominated
The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) has developed a
projects including Four Corners, 90 Plein Street and Nelson Mandela:
production and post-production incentive scheme in order to attract
The Myth & Me, which have been shortlisted for a combined 23
international investment, as well as assist local content creators.
awards. Searle Street was also involved with post-production on
South Africa also grants local production and post-production
critically acclaimed Breathe –Umphefumlo, Mark Dornford May’s
incentives to projects which, among other things, allow qualifying
contemporary adaptation of Puccini’s La Boheme, which premiered at
SA films or SA co-productions under an official co-production
this year’s Berlinale.
treaty. The incentive is available to qualifying local productions
Joburg-based company Refinery has continued to show their unique
with a total budget of R2.5-million or more, and is restricted to the
range of skills in post-production, having worked on two PromaxBDA
following formats: feature films, tele-movies, television drama series,
Winners for season three of MasterChef and award-winning Afrikaans
documentaries and animation. The dti is in the process of adding
film Die Windpomp. They also set up a satellite post facility in Cape
digital content and gaming.
Town to manage all post production on SAF3, the popular TV series
In the last year or so, the industry saw a number of post facilities
by Baywatch creator Gregory J Bonann, as well as Ralph Ziman’s Kite,
and companies raking up the awards. Bladeworks was the Top
which was released in January.
Post-Production House according to the Loeries Official Rankings
Last September saw Black Ginger also grab some Loerie Award
2014, with Pudding achieving 4th place in the Television, Film and
Nominations for The Quest for Lucky Pet in the Animation Craft
POST-PRODUCTION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
53 © Unearthed
© Nelson Mandela: The Myth & Me © Nelson Mandela: The Myth & Me
Nelson Mandela: The Myth & Me
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Searle Street Post worked on four nominated projects including Four Corners, 90 Plein Street and Nelson Mandela: The Myth & Me , which have been shortlisted for a combined 23 awards.
“
Category and for Lunch Bar’s Tumi and JC Le Roux’s Cork in the VFX Craft category. The post-production sector has become stronger and healthier in recent years, and as a result, is involved in a range of high-profile projects in both international and regional circles – from TV channel identity design and commercials, to feature films, reality formats and television series.
Unearthed
54
INFRASTRUCTURE: GEAR AND SUPPLIES
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Wayne de Lange on location © Silver Bullet Productions
INFRASTRUCTURE: Gear and Supplies
T
he unsung heroes of the South African film industry are
worldwide that they will be receiving the same quality and range of
the gear houses, who keep importing the latest equipment
equipment combined with matching enthusiastic and knowledgeable
despite ever-shrinking redundancy timeframes. Whether
technical service whether they are renting this from our offices in Los
you swear by Arri, Blackmagic, Canon, Nikon, Panavision,
Angeles or London or from our South African offices,” he explains. Eddy
Phantom, RED or Sony, you’ll be able to rent the latest models in South
goes on to say that over and above their ability to offer worldwide
Africa. Similarly, whether you prefer Angenieux Optimo, Arri, Cooke,
logistical solutions to sourcing and moving of equipment, “We also
or Zeiss lenses, they’re all easily available, among other options. Even
have a depth of local knowledge of the South African industry and the
if you have less mainstream tastes, chances are you’ll find it in South
way it works and the players involved at all levels. Often, due to time
Africa. If you can’t, a local gear company will be able to import it for
restraints and our positioning at the tip of Africa we are called upon
you in record time.
to offer mechanical solutions to adapt equipment to achieve specific
Many of the local gear houses are part of international chains: for
needs or to manufacture grips rigs and art department assistance in
example, Panavision has four of its 68 offices worldwide in South
order to achieve a particular shot or effect – all of which we are very
Africa; the Visuals group has 20 offices in 10 countries across UK,
capable of doing with our in-house facilities.
Europe and South Africa; and Take 2 Films has offices in London and
Local gear houses are also excellent: Media Film Service, for example,
Cape Town.
is celebrating 15 years of supplying gear to major international shoots
Tony Eddy, Managing Director at Panavision SA, says that multiple
in 2015. According to Managing Director Neil Du Toit, one of the
offices certainly gives them an edge: “The Panavision brand is globally
ways they’ve stayed in top form is by keeping abreast of the latest
recognised and carries the assumption and assurance to our customers
technology trends. “As an industry, we cater largely for an international
INFRASTRUCTURE: GEAR AND SUPPLIES
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
55 Wayne de Lange on location © Silver Bullet Productions
“
“
Often, due to time restraints and our positioning at the tip of Africa we are called upon to offer mechanical solutions to adapt equipment to achieve specific needs or to manufacture grips rigs and art department assistance in order to achieve a particular shot or effect – all of which we are very capable of doing with our in-house facilities.
market that is accustomed to using the latest technology – being on the southern tip of Africa makes no difference. To service this market you have to stay abreast with technology and need to supply the latest and greatest,” Du Toit says. Other gear companies worth mentioning are Photo Hire and its sister Cine Photo Tools, an equipment rental, sales and repairs service that offers an eclectic range of both cinematic and photographic supplies, and Visual Impact, one of the largest broadcasting and film equipment rental companies in South Africa, based in Johannesburg and Cape Town. As Marius van Straaten, Director at Visual Impact says, “We supply the camera infrastructure, the audio infrastructure, as well as what’s very important: the workflow. We are very, very good at workflows and integration.” South African gear houses are able to supply all your lighting and gripping rigs, as well as your DIT and consumables requirements.
56
INFRASTRUCTURE: CREW AND ARTISTS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
© Starz Entertainment
Jessica Parker Kennedy as Max in Black Sails.
INFRASTRUCTURE: Crew and Artists
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures © Chappie
Neill Blomkamp’s Chappie featuring Yolandi Visser from Die Antwoord.
INFRASTRUCTURE: CREW AND ARTISTS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
57 An official South African/German Co-Production/ A Wall to Wall Media / Warner Bros Entertainment GmbH / Moonlighting Co-Production for BBC & HBO Films
I
Costume designer Dianna Cilliers and her assistant Melissa Moritz were nominated for a Emmy for their work on The Girl. n a first for South Africa, Robert Bentley and Deon Du Preez were nominated for a 2015 Locations Managers Guild of America Award for Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Television Series for their work on season four of Homeland, where they
doubled Cape Town for Kabul, Islamabad City, New York, Rawalpindi, Virginia, Washington DC, and Waziristan. Bentley and Du Preez are just the latest in a long line of South African crew who’ve been recognised internationally as among the best in the world.
Other recent accolades include:
Television Society Best Make-Up Award for The Devil’s Whore in 2009 • Art director Sylvain Gingras and set decorator Emma Eunson were nominated for a 2011 Emmy for Gettysburg • Special effects supervisor Max Pullman and costume supervisor Abigail Metcalfe won 2011 Emmys for Gettysburg • Directors Craig and Damon Foster and underwater cinematographer Roger Horrocks were nominated for Best Cinematography on Into The Dragon’s Lair in 2011 • DOPs Lee Doig and Mike Yelseth won an Emmy for Survivor in 2010
• Special effects lead Doug Hardy won a 2014 Emmy for his work on Black Sails • Production designer Darryl Hammer won a 2013 BAFTA and was
South Africa also boasts experienced, ethnically diverse actors and models. While South Africa boasts a long list of talent making a name
nominated for a Art Directors Guild Award for her work on
of themselves in Hollywood, from Oscar-winner Charlize Theron to
The Girl
Neill Blomkamp favourite Sharlto Copley, locally-based actors are
• Visual effects producer Simon Hansen won a 2013 Royal
increasingly making waves without even needing to emigrate.
Television Craft and Design Award for Best Digital Effects on The Girl • Costume designer Dianna Cilliers and her assistant Melissa Moritz were nominated for a 2013 Emmy for their work on The Girl • Composer Philip Miller was nominated for a 2013 Emmy for his score on The Girl • Composer Bruce Retief was nominated for a 2013 Annie Award for his score on Adventures in Zambezia • Hair and makeup designer Nadine Prigge and prosthetics designer Clinton Smith were nominated for a 2013 BAFTA for Best MakeUp and Hair Design. Nadine was also nominated for a Royal
For example: • Brandon Auret has starred in all Neill Blomkamp’s films: District 9, Elysium and Chappie • Carl Beukes starred as archangel Gabriel in SyFy’s hit 2014 series, Dominion • Langley Kirkwood starred as Colonel Douglas Stowe in season three of Banshee • Louise Barnes, Sean Cameron Michael and Hakeem Kae-Kazim have lead roles in Black Sails • Fana Mokoena starred in World War Z and The Book of Negroes
58
SPECIALIST SERVICES
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
SPECIALIST Services
O
n Chappie, like many blockbusters shot in South
South Africa has it all. The country has proved itself on films
Africa, the special effects, mechanical effects and
that have topped the US box office, like 10 000 BC, Chappie,
stunt teams were completely local. Max Poolman
Chronicle, District 9 and Safe House, as well as blockbusters like
oversaw the SFX and Grant Hulley the stunts. “I love
Avengers: Age of Ultron and Mad Max: Fury Road.
working with them,” says director Neill Blomkamp. “They are both
In addition to a pristine coastline and dedicated tanks at Cape
world-class and easy to work with. No BS. Really talented. Max
Town Film Studios, South Africa also boasts a comprehensive
is absolutely hilarious and he genuinely loves blowing things up,
marine-support service, which includes certified and qualified
which means I will automatically like him.”
personnel, boats and equipment.
As MJZ commercials producer Stephen Johnson says, “South
Underwater cinematographer Charles Maxwell won an Emmy
Africa is a hi-tech centre for Hollywood-style stunts.”
for his work on Blue Planet as far back as 2001, while Roger
Whether you need mist, prosthetics, pyrotechnics, stunt vehicles,
Horrocks was nominated for an Emmy for Into The Dragon’s Lair
or enough armourers and weapons specialists to stage a war,
in 2011.
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures © Chappie Courtesy of Columbia Pictures © Chappie
Chappie’s special effects, mechanical effects and stunt teams were completely local.
SPECIALIST SERVICES
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
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South Africa is a hi-tech centre for Hollywood-style stunts. Whether you need mist, prosthetics, pyrotechnics, stunt vehicles, or enough armourers and weapons specialists to stage a war, South Africa has it all. The country has proved itself on films that have topped the US box office, like 10 000 BC, Chappie, Chronicle, District 9 and Safe House, as well as blockbusters like Avengers: Age of Ultron and Mad Max: Fury Road.
“
South Africa’s impressive list of ocean-set successes includes
As a premier wildlife tourism destination, South Africa also offers
the Emmy-winning pirate drama Black Sails; the BAFTA and Royal
both animals and experienced wranglers to handle them.
Television Society nominee To The Ends of the Earth; the BAFTA-
Whether you need aerial services, car detailing, complex logistics,
nominated Sinking of the Laconia; and Free Willy: Escape From
medical expertise, prop houses, rope access, or security, South
Pirate’s Cove.
Africa has a specialist waiting to facilitate.
© Ollie Upton, Warner Bros Entertainment
© Warner Bros Entertainment
10 000 BC features Steven Strait as D’Leh and Camilla Belle as Evolet.
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That was one of the advantages of going to Cape Town. The level of crew was really high, in terms of their talent and experience, but also in terms of what we could build and how far our dollars went.
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
Dominion showrunner Vaun Wilmott in Collider
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES
U2’s This Is Where You Find Me Now, directed by Bryan Little © Filipa Domingues
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
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AAA ENTERTAINMENT
CONTACT DETAILS
AAA Entertainment is a sales and distribution company owned by two
101D The Main Change,
founding members Mayenzeke Baza and Pascal Schmitz. Situated in
5th Floor Maboneng Precinct
Johannesburg, we exist to fill the gap in the world market for African
20 Kruger Street, Jeppestown,
films and films that can sell in Africa. Based on the belief that this
Johannesburg, South Africa
continent is brimming with great locations and talent that present the
t. +27 86 722 7173
African film industry with a new frontier of high production value, we
f. +27 86 535 7334
seek to deliver fresh creativity of high production quality films with
e: info@aaa-entertain.com
great entertainment value to the global world.
www.aaa-entertain.com
PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
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BE PART OF OUR FAMILY!
AFS PRODUCTIONS
Genres of Film: Service production, commercial production, feature
AFS is a hip, family run company and we pride ourselves on
films, TV, documentary and stills | Languages Spoken: English, Afrikaans
organization with meticulous detail, dedication, and the highest level of professionalism.
CONTACT DETAILS
We provide a world-class production infrastructure and logistical
Metal Lane, 4 Kloof Street, Cape Town, 8001
support in a fun and friendly environment.
Dale Kushner / Brin Kushner
We look for cost-effective solutions that don’t compromise your
t: +27 21 424 9999
creativity. We handle all pre-production, production and post-
f: +27 21 424 9998
production concerns, and ensure that your shoot runs smoothly
e: info@afsproductions.com
from start to finish, with a personal AFS family touch.
www.afsproductions.com
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
MANDELA BAY PICTURES
Mandela Bay Pictures seek to employ individuals who bring a diversity
Mandela Bay Pictures (MBP) is a growing company with 100% black
of high skills and talent to the company. We believe that empowerment
ownership. With offices in Nelson Mandela Bay and Johannesburg,
is an essential part of our business. MBP makes documentary, fiction
the company’s business strategy is founded on principles of skills
and factual projects for the SABC and the international market, and is
development and job creation that will promote the growth of the
also in development of a feature documentary, feature fiction dance
film and television industry in the Eastern Cape province. We are
and lifestyle travel show projects due for release in 2016.
involved in facilitating the growth and development of the Eastern Cape’s fledgling film and television industry which presents unique
CONTACT DETAILS
opportunities in training, skills development and job creation in arguably
t: +27 83 263 9489
the poorest province in the country. As we grow, and with each project,
e: mbp@vodamail.co.za
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
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METAL TIGER
Genres of film production include Commercial service, Stills, Music video,
Metal Tiger Productions is a streamlined production company offering
Features and Documentary.
huge experience without the expensive frills. The core team, with veteran Liz O’Shaughnessy at the helm, does all the preliminary research
CONTACT DETAILS
to avoid unnecessary extra costs, with Liz doing all the budgeting
PO Box 13693, Mobray, 7705
herself. Metal Tiger has wonderful relationships with the top freelance
Liz O’Shaughnessy
crews and suppliers, bringing the right people on board for each job.
m: +27 82 45 44 100
The company also uses stringent accounting practices to ensure fast,
t: +27 21 448 8794
efficient and transparent reconciling of all jobs. And, of course, as Noel
e: liz@metaltigerproductions.co.za
Coward said, “Work is more fun than fun!”
www.metaltigerproductions.co.za
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
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MOONLIGHTING Shayne Brookstein and founder Philip Key lead our dynamic production team providing hands-on, problem-solving and intuitive production
CONTACT DETAILS
services throughout Southern Africa for commercials, TV doccies,
Shayne Brookstein (Executive Producer)
stills and all media formats. We began in 1989 and offer 26 years
e: shayne@moonlighting.co.za
accumulated experience and solid track record from our Cape Town
Beccy Kellond (Marketing Manager)
base. We are also on the approved supplier list for Unilever.
e: beccy@moonlighting.co.za
Images show: Compare the Market for Passion Pictures, UK; Windhoek
t: +27 21 447 2209
Lager (with Didier Drogba) for Jupiter Drawing Room; Garnier for
f: +27 86 606 3250
Tempesta, Paris; and Garage Hard Lemon for Hobby Films, Sweden.
www.moonlighting.co.za
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
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THE SHOOTING GALLERY
wonderful working group of producers, directors, technical and creative
The Shooting Gallery provides a nurturing environment for international
crew. Together, we put our everything into everything we do, because
filmmakers. More than 16 years and over 300 international commercials
we want you to do your best work right here in our beautiful country.
later, our unwavering support and determination to stretch your budget have made us a leading service production company in South Africa.
CONTACT DETAILS
Claire founded The Shooting Gallery in 1998, offering production houses
Claire Richards (Executive Producer)
from around the globe all she had learned from over a decade of living,
m: +27 82 466 6400
breathing and producing commercials for South African Directors. She
t: +27 21 461 7600
is the heart of the company, our fearless leader and your main contact.
e: claire@theshootinggallery.co.za
We treasure our many trusted friendships and associations with a
www.theshootinggallery.co.za
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PRODUCTION COMPANIES A- Z
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Made in Mauritius Stranded in Paradise
In Einem WildenLand
BAFTA Nominated The Sinking of the Laconia
TWO OCEANS PRODUCTION
CONTACT DETAILS
With the primary objective of delivering a professional specially geared
Giselher Venzke: Company Director / Producer / Bertha Spieker:
service to the European television market, TOP has grown to one of
Company Director / Producer / Marco le Roux: Producer /
the leading production companies in South Africa. We have completed
Andrea Pienaar: Head of Production
over 75 international feature length films and numerous commercials for
2 Milner Street, Paarden Eiland, 7405, Cape Town, South Africa
clients around the world. We believe in building unique and personalised
PO Box 369, Paarden Eiland, 7420, Cape Town, South Africa
relationships with our clients and by giving hands on, expert attention to each
t: +27 21 506 3300
production from start to finish, TOP guarantees a cost-effective solutions-
f: +27 21 506 3316
driven experience. We offer tailor made, hands on, cost-effective commercials
e: top@topproductions.co.za
facilitation and long-form coproduction, co-financing and service facilitation.
www.topproduction.de
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
CAN-CAN FILMS Di Britz, Executive Producer Under the dynamic leadership of Di Britz, one of South Africa’s most experienced commercials producers, Can-Can offers an innovative approach to facilitating International Commercials. Please visit our website for background on our unique service and opportunities.
m: +27 83 227 3041 e: di@can-canfilms.co.za www.can-canfilms.co.za
CAPE DIRECT Cape Direct was established in 1992 and was one of the first production film service companies to operate in Cape Town. Dianne Bramhill is still at the helm of this well-established and highly-esteemed company. We like to think of ourselves as an extension of our international clients, working together as a team to provide cost-effective solutions and great commercials. We offer all services necessary for setting up and executing a successful shoot. t: +27 21 424 4495 e: production@capedirect.com www.capedirect.com
GINGER PICTURES Ginger Pictures is a creative production and facilitating company based in Johannesburg. We exist to give life to your ideas. At Ginger Pictures, we shoot top end commercials, no matter the budget because we are passionate about filmmaking. We shoot in Africa and South Africa. Our last award is an Emerald Award (Bronze) at the African Cristal Festival 2014 in Marrakech.
m: +27 76 030 7284 e: julie@gingerpictures.tv www.gingerpictures.tv
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HUNGRY FILMS With two experienced resident directors — Oscar Strauss and Ian Difford — Hungry Films has established itself as a leading commercial production company in South Africa. Oscar specialises in directing performance, especially children’s performance, while Ian, with his background in art and commercial photography, has a master’s touch for creating beautiful pictures, whatever the subject. t: +27 11 482 2171 / 2 e: info@hungryfilms.co.za jackie@hungryfilms.co.za www.hungryfilms.co.za
LUCKY FISH PRODUCTIONS Lucky Fish Productions is a boutique production house in Cape Town, specialising in servicing and producing local and international commercials, feature films and documentaries. Lucky Fish believes in strong on-going relationships based on trust and has loyal clients that return year after year creating a strong understanding of what their clients require and expect. Contact: Platon Trakoshis t: +27 21 424 3513 m: +27 83 2901502 e: platon@luckyfishproductions.co.za www.luckyfishproductions.co.za
SPITFIRE FILMS
Spitfire Films is a creative content studio and collective based in Hyde Park Johannesburg, specialising in creating content for advertisers big and small. We offer a turnkey solution and offer brands opportunities to get their message or awareness onto any screen. We are locally and internationally awarded. Our awards include Cannes Lions, Loeries and Promax. In a nutshell, we make flipping great ads and we won’t rip you off. t: +27 11 325 6227 e: liesl@spitfirefilms.tv www.spitfirefilms.tv
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
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CREATIVE PROFILES A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
You really get a chance to delve into your character when you’re away from home and you’re immersed in a different setting for six months. I think it’s a great adventure. Homeland star Nazanin Boniada
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CREATIVE PROFILES
Eva Green © Campari Calendar 2015
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JAN VERBOOM Jan Verboom is an award-winning photographer from Cape Town with years of advertising experience. He understands that images need to communicate ideas, concept and appeal. Jan looks for those unique angles, those images that capture the feel of the shoot. Images that tell a story that can be used across the board
CONTACT DETAILS
whether it’s a brand building ad campaign, a conceptual billboard, that
m: +27 82 652 2278
ambassadorial portrait, the cute lifestyle image, a perfect product shot,
t: +27 21 447 6326
delicious food visuals or those behind-the-scenes Facebook pics.
e: jverboom@iafrica.com
Jan will give you more than just the Ad shot!
www.janverboom.com
CREATIVE PROFILES A- Z
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PETER POHORSKY
Based in Cape Town, working 50/50 in Joburg and Cape Town, backed by
Ranked one of the top performance directors in South Africa, Pete not
a strong effective production team from a stunning office in Cape Town
only comes with many years of directing experience, most of which
and our satellite office in Joburg. Looking forward to working with you.
during the 12 years in his own company, Plank, but he also comes with a wicked sense of humour. What he doesn’t have, is an ego and you
CONTACT DETAILS
definitely won’t find any airs and graces. What you see is what you get
Anco Henning (Executive Producer)
from Pete, but what you get from his work always exceeds expectations
m: +27 83 235 6720
and sometimes even surprises him a little. Needless to say, never a dull
t: +27 21 461 0887
moment with a beautiful mix of hard, dedicated work and fun, topped
e: anco@plank.co.za
with a healthy dose of craziness.
www.plank.co.za
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CREATIVE PROFILES A- Z
BOUFFANT bouffant launched in 2007, headed by directors Erik Van Wyk, Dean Blumberg, Marc Sidelsky and Andre Liebenberg, reaching the status of number one ranked production company in South Africa in 2012. Now headed up by Executive Producer Peter Carr, the brand continues to be recognised as a leading company in the industry.
38 Wessel Road, Rivonia, Johannesburg t: +27 11 234 8820 e: peter@bouffant.tv www.bouffant.tv
DAVID HOUSTON Mantra is the home of Sound Engineer, Designer and Composer David Houston. With a strong emphasis and clarity, creativity and emotion plus years of experience in the Industry, David specialises in providing solutions with quick turn around for your projects. Key areas are Location Sound, Sound Editing, Noise Reduction/Restoration, Sound Design, Final-mix and Music Composition.
m: +27 72 698 3834 e: dave@mantrasound.co.za www.mantrasound.co.za
ENDPOST EndPost recently opened their doors in Woodstock with Roshni Haraldsen on board as the company’s Creative Director. With over 150 hours of programming, EndPost are experts in long-form editing and have produced award-winning shows, including Best Reality and Best Variety shows at the 2015 SAFTA’s, as well as their first feature film, Hollywood in my Huis, which won three awards at the 2014 Silwerskerm Fees. Contact: Roshni Haraldsen t: +27 21 447 1139 m: +27 82 498 4803 e: roshni@endpost.co.za www.endpost.co.za
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
REFINERY Refinery is one of SA’s longest standing and leading post production facilities. International productions include Disney/ Marvel, Warner Bros, HBO, ABC, Sony, CBS, NBC Universal, Fox, BBC, Discovery and Weinstein. Services include: Digital Dailies, Editorial cutting rooms, On-line, VFX and Animation, Truelight Colour Grading, Dolby Accredited Sound Studios, DCP Encoding, and Mastering, QC and Deliveries. Contact: Tracey Williams t: +27 11 799 7800 f: +27 11 706 0300 e: tracey@refinery.co.za www.refinery.co.za
VATIC Vatic is a creative studio co-founded by photographer Brett Rubin and art director and stylist Nicole Van Heerden. Since their launch in 2011, Vatic has developed a unique perspective on contemporary South Africa through their collaborations, on photographic, film and styling briefs, with many of the country’s leading and emerging fashion designers, artists, performers, luxury brands, advertising agencies and publications. t: +27 82 515 1386 e: nicole@vatic.co / brett@vatic.co www.vatic.co
VELOCITY Velocity is currently ranked as the number one production company in South Africa and has offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Founded in 1990, we continue to house some of the country’s top awardwinning directors and have the invaluable support of experienced and specialised production teams. 38 Wessel Road, Rivonia, Johannesburg 30 Keerom Street, Cape Town t: +27 11 807 0100 +27 21 424 4971 e: helena@velocityfilms.com / karen@velocityfilms.com www.velocityfilms.com
CREATIVE PROFILES A- Z
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VISUAL IMPACT Visual Impact South Africa is the leading provider of broadcast and multicam solutions in Africa and productions originating from South Africa. Visual Impact does not only rent out broadcast equipment, but sells a wide range of equipment through our expert personnel. Visual Impact is able to engineer and setup workflows anywhere in the world. We have participated in large and specialised reality TV projects such as MasterChef, Fear Factor, Idols, The Block, The Apprentice and Survivor. t: +27 87 550 0737 e: SArentals@visuals.tv / sales@visuals.tv www.visuals.tv
VINCENT SHANTALL Special Effects and Flutter Fetti (confetti) applications - Based in the Western Cape Stockist of the largest range of Flutter Fetti and relevant machines to expel confetti as well as Bubble Machines, Pyrotechnics, Snowmachines, Streamer Cannons, Fireworks, Balloons, Laser Machines, Flame machines and many other products. t: +27 21 511 9676 m: +27 82 553 0438 e: viscreatect@mweb.co.za www.visualc.co.za Facebook: (Top Level Effects Cape Town): facebook.com/pages/Top-LevelEffects/1404392953160056
WINK We do film. That’s anything and everything that involves a vision and a camera. Our service is competitive, accessible and honest. Your storyboard is our challenge and we understand what it takes to win jobs. We head up a kick-ass network of resources and talent, providing an excellent production service with offices in both Cape Town AND Johannesburg. 30 Keerom Street, Cape Town 38 Wessel Road, Rivonia, Johannesburg t: +27 21 424 4971 e: alison@winkfilms.tv chrism@winkfilms.tv www.winkfilms.tv
production service
Joe Alblas MOTION PICTURE STILL PHOTOGRAPHER
CLIENT LIST Apollo Movie Beteiligungs, Ascot Entertainment Group, BBC One, BBC America, Canal Plus, Conquering Pictures, DNA Films, DO Productions, Elite Filmproduktion AG, Entertainment One, Film Afrika, HBO, Hollywood Media Bridge, Hollywood Pictures, History Channel, ITV, Jumping Horse Film, Kalahari Pictures, Kudos Film & Television, Left Bank Pictures, Light Workers Media, Lionsgate, Metro Goldwyn Mayer, Moonlighting Films, NBC, Nordisk Film Egmont, Nostromo Pictures, Nova Film, Nutopia, One Three Media, Open Road Films, Out of Africa Entertainment, Sienna Films, Silver Pictures, SKY HD Atlantic, Spier Films, Starz Entertainment LLC, Tandem Communications GmbH, Thunder Road Pictures, 20th Century Fox Entertainment, United Artists, Warner Bros. GmbH, Warner Premiere, Working Title Television, Wiedemann & Berg Film GmbH, Wrekin Hill Entertainment and Zentropa.
CONTACT DETAILS t: +27 21 438 2773 | m: +27 83 338 7800 | e: joe@joealblas.com | www.joealblas.com
Image courtesy
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SPECIALIST SERVICES A-Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
South Africa has proven itself many times… The support system that has been set up with the government, the dti and Wesgro is exceptional in that everyone is so invested. In America we don’t have the same support from our government officials. You have direct personal and financial investment in building an industry… The commitment you have from all levels of government is truly astounding. I’ve never seen the degree of investment and courage as I’ve seen in South Africa.
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- Vance van Petten, Executive Director of the Producers Guild of America
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
SPECIALIST SERVICES A-Z
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SPECIALIST SERVICES
© Silver Bullet Productions
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SPECIALIST SERVICES A- Z
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LIFT UP TELEPORTER
All our operators are trained and certified. Our certified mechanics are
LiftUp Teleporter, based in Cape Town is a leading supplier of
available for repairs, servicing and maintenance.
Manitou and Magni telescopic material handlers to the Film Industry,
LiftUp Teleporter is available 24/7; our motto is: “You call - we deliver.�
specializing in telehandler sales, rentals and support. With a fleet of Manitou and Magni telescopic and rotating teleporters
CONTACT DETAILS
from 2.3 to five tons, and from five to 30 metres in height, and more
LiftUp Teleporter, Container Depot Culemborg,
than 20 available attachments, a single machine can be used to
Christaan Barnard Street, 8001, Cape Town
perform multiple tasks.
m: +27 83 375 9661 (Ulli Plotz) / +27 83 458 4326 (Lambert Ludik)
We also design and manufacture custom attachments to suit your
t. +27 21 418 7773
every need.
e: info@liftup.capetown / admin@liftup.capetown
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
SPECIALIST SERVICES A- Z
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SAE INSTITUTE
de force of architecture and technology located in Cape Town’s
The cornerstone of SAE’s approach is to produce graduates that
Woodstock Exchange.
are not simply talented animators, filmmakers, music producers and
If the ethos of SAE Institute resonates with you, please visit us online
sound engineers, but credible citizens of the world who make a
www.capetown.sae.edu or call us on +27 87 351 0828.
significant contribution to society and the economy. It is no secret; employers seek to hire mature, astute and humble professionals and
CONTACT DETAILS
not idealistic prima donnas.
t: +27 87 351 0828
SAE Institute offers bachelor degrees, higher certificates and a
e: capetown@sae.edu
suite of short courses in their remarkable campus that is a tour
www.capetown.sae.edu
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SPECIALIST SERVICES A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Aon South Africa Sport, Recreation & Entertainment Insurance Aon specialises in insurance cover for the film and advertising agency industries. Innovative, custom made insurance solutions to cater to the unique risks associated with feature films and TV commercials. We can arrange Film Producers’ Package Policy, Weatherday, Personal Accident for Crew and Cast, as well as Film Errors and Omissions. Aon is an Authorised Financial Services Provider. t: +27 11 944 7290 e: info@aon.co.za aon.co.za
Film Finances Ltd came into being in 1950. Over the years they expanded around the world becoming the world leader in completion guarantees. It was imperative that in the early 90’s Film Finances develop a presence in South Africa to support local and international filmmakers by protecting them against the unforeseen. The guarantees are an important element of financing providing the necessary reassurance to the investor and banks. t: +27 11 513 3563 e: jane@filmfinances.co.za / thandeka@filmfinances.co.za www.filmfinances.com
INSPIRE FURNITURE RENTALS We supply rental furniture to the Exhibition, Conference and Events Industry. We also sell furniture to the Corporate, Hospitality and Domestic Markets. We have well trained staff who go above the call of duty to make sure that they meet and exceed the client’s expectation. We have a manufacturing department in house therefore our furniture is always up to standard. t: +27 76 644 0271 (Johannesburg) +27 73 893 0315 (Cape Town) e: JHB@inspirefurniture.co.za CPT@inspirefurniture.co.za www.inspirefurniture.co.za
© Chappie
FILM FINANCES SOUTH AFRICA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
MOUNTAIN MARINA Unrivalled comfort and elegance on the water’s edge, offering a world-class location with Table Mountain as a majestic backdrop. Mountain Marina is a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with the penthouses as the premier units. The apartments are fully serviced and equipped to the highest standard. Each apartment comprises modern, airconditioned, spacious en-suite bedrooms with separate lounge and dining areas. t: +27 21 421 3070 f: +27 86 613 5208 e: stay@mountainmarina.co.za www.mountainmarina.com
PERFECT HIDEAWAYS Perfect Hideaways has a portfolio of farms, villas, houses, cottages, boutique hotels and island locations– each handpicked because of their individual beauty, quirks and charm. Be transported to a world away from the one you know… and be matched to your ideal escape whether for a holiday or location in South Africa and Mozambique.
t: +27 860 8888 62 e: stay@perfecthideaways.co.za www.perfecthideaways.co.za
SPECIALIST SERVICES A- Z
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SOUTH AFRICA
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www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
SOUTH AFRICA
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SOUTH AFRICA
Limpopo © SA Tourism
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AFRICA FILM FACTS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
AFRICA FILM FACTS Film Incentives in Africa The African continent has a number of film co-production treaties and film incentives for both locals and internationals creating features. Here are just a few of them: •
The Mauritius Film Rebate Scheme: A project of the Board of Investment in association with the Mauritius Film Development Corporation, the scheme is open to locals and internationals and encourages them to shoot on the island. It provides a 30% rebate for Qualifying Production Expenditures incurred in Mauritius, from travel and accommodation to professional services,
Why Africa? •
labour costs and catering. For more information contact
Variety of landscapes and locations within close
Jean-Claude Labat on +230 57533702 in Mauritius
proximity of city centres
or Sebastian van’t Hoff on +27 76 226 0161 in South
•
CBD’s can double for many cities worldwide
•
Lengthy daylight hours in summer
•
World class skills base - Local industry professionals
offer outright film incentives to productions, it does
are competent, experienced and technically proficient,
continue to make the country an attractive spot with
professional local actors, sector includes pre-and post-
low production costs backed by a 20% VAT reduction
production activities
on goods and service bought in Morocco. Imports are
First rate film studios capable of mammoth
simplified for producers, while fees for shooting at
productions, such as The Cape Town Film Studio and
historic sites may also be waived. In Ouarzazate, one can
•
Africa. Email: info@vanthoffassociates.com •
Waterfront Studios • •
save between 30-50% of production costs. •
to the incentives South Africa already offers, it launched
The province has highly competitive production cost
the Emerging Black Filmmakers Incentive in July last
rates when compared to major film markets.
year. This rebate offers locals up to 50% rebate for the
Major international films already been produced within
first R6 million spent from the Qualifying South African
South Africa •
SA Emerging Black Filmmakers Incentive: In addition
telecommunications, road networks, and ports
Numerous film festivals and markets are hosted in South
Production Expenditure and 25% thereafter. •
Namibian Film Rebates: The Namibian Film Commission
Africa and Africa
(NFC) launched a new tax rebate in 2014 for production
•
South Africa has high standards of copyright protection
companies that spend a minimum of US$500,000. One
•
South Africa has a film friendly policy, enabling ease of
of these incentives is a 20% direct grant and a 10% cash
access and governmental support
rebate for qualifying expenses. Visit www.nfc.na
Black Sails © Starz Entertainment
•
World-class infrastructure in terms of banks,
Morocco Tax Breaks: Although Morocco does not
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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
GAUTENG:
A Rich History in the Cinematic Arts © Karin Blid Alsbirk
Gavin Hood made history with Tsotsi. © Coming of Age
H
ome to the economic powerhouse of Southern Africa – Johannesburg – Gauteng is a province of vibrant diversity; from wildlife reserves and World Heritage Sites to art and culture set against a thriving urban
backdrop. Its history is steeped in film, too, with the first cinema newsreels shot on the frontlines of the Anglo-Boer War and with ‘blaxploitation’ films of the 50’s through 80s silently making their rounds in the townships. Joburg has become known for films like Cry, The Beloved Country, Sarafina!, and anti-apartheid films such
as the critically acclaimed Cry Freedom and A World Apart despite being banned until 1990. More recently, however, Gauteng has forged a completely different name for itself in the filmmaking arena. Director Gavin Hood made history in 2005 with Tsotsi, which won Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars that year and forever placed the country on the map. Ralph Ziman’s Jerusalema (2008), also known as Gangster’s Paradise, was well-received by critics and grossed R2.8-million (US$400,000) locally. And in the last few years, Johannesburg has seen a slew of high-profile productions from Catch a Fire and Goodbye Bafana to Endgame and Invictus, as well as Neil Blomkamp’s highly successful District 9 and Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron.
Coming of Age screened at the 65th annual Berlin International Film Festival.
The Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) helps develop, promote
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Gauteng has a host of locations within its borders, from the historic and industrial to the artistic and the gritt y. Its township and central business districts are sought after as unique urban settings for a myriad of productions, both local and international.
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• The GFC has released industry Guidelines for Location Filming in Gauteng, as well as an A-Z Guide to Studios
© SA Tourism
Facts in Gauteng, and other information manuals for film producers. • Project Gaullywood was a 2007 investigation into the size, scope and impact of the Gauteng film production industry. It is now widely considered one of the most comprehensive sources of sector data in the country. • Some new film festivals have emerged from Gauteng in the last few years: the Jozi Film Festival in 2012, the Independent Mzansi Short Film Festival, which was launched in 2014, and the Females in Film and Television Industry (Fifti) Festival, which takes place in August 2015. • More information on filming in Gauteng can be found at www.gautengfilm.org.za.
Cinematic Soweto in Johannesburg. and coordinate the film and television production industries
initiative, it helps ensure that the region’s fascinatingly diverse
in the region. Some of the services they offer include logistic
locations are matched with technical capability, skilled crew and
support, content development support and funding, and advisory
competitively priced services.
and marketing services among others. The region has almost 20 major studios that feed the broadcasting, commercials and film
How to Get There
sectors, with many more smaller studios working on both local and
Although Gauteng is a landlocked province, it offers easy and
international projects. The GFC also supports ‘Made in Gauteng’
convenient access to the rest of the region. It is a two-hour flight
projects and practitioners by providing development funds, offering
to the Okavango Delta, the Victoria Falls, the Cape Winelands
production assistance, granting funding for internships and training
and the tropical beaches of Maputo in Mozambique, as well as
programmes, and is active in creating a “vibrant screen sector for
the Namib Desert and the Kruger National Park. Flights to most
independent filmmakers”.
international and regional destinations can be booked through OR
Filming Requirements
Tambo International Airport, while private taxis, buses, trains and other alternative transportation is available intercity. Gauteng’s
Gauteng has a host of locations within its borders, from the historic
climate is summery, warm and wind-free, although in winter it can
and industrial to the artistic and the gritty. Its township and central
get very cold at night.
business districts are sought after as unique urban settings for a myriad of productions, both local and international.
Did You Know?
All film crews are required to obtain film permits when filming in
Seven South African films were screened at the 65th annual
public spaces such as streets, pavements, and government-owned
Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) this year, one of the
buildings and should be applied for at least 14 working days before
largest festivals in the world – Breathe Umphefumlo, Coming of
the shoot. The GFC has a listing of location scouts, managers and
Age, Necktie Youth, Joe Bullet, Umbango, Abaabi ba boda boda and
facilitation companies. Through the GFC’s Film Friendly Gauteng
Black President.
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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Š Jaap Buitendijk
Blood Diamond
KWAZULU-NATAL:
A Firm Favourite for Feature Films
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Kingdom, KwaZulu-Natal – fondly known to locals as KZN – is a well-established location for both South African and international filmmakers. The region has some spectacular
destinations, from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the mountainous ‘Barrier of Spears’, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park: both of which are World Heritage Sites. KZN is the land of a thousand hills, flanked by the pristine Indian Ocean and also holds one of the continent’s major port destinations in the city of Durban. Apart from being a domestic tourism leader, KwaZulu-Natal is also renowned for its stunning locales and is the third-largest film
“
Films like Blood Diamond, Thunder, Blue Crush, Spud: The Movie, Mr Bob, Man to Man, BBC’s Blood and Oil, I Dreamed of Africa, Durban Poison, and the 1960’s classic Zulu were all shot on location here.
“
A
province of indescribable beauty and home to the Zulu
93
industry in South Africa, worth R237.6-million per year. Films like Blood Diamond, Thunder, Blue Crush, Spud: The Movie, Mr Bob, Man to Man, BBC’s Blood and Oil, I Dreamed of Africa, Durban Poison, and
Because visas are no longer issued at South African ports of entry,
the 1960’s classic Zulu were all shot on location here. The region has
crew will need to arrange this before leaving for intended destinations.
access to highly experienced crew, award-winning stunt performers,
Film incentives are available through the Department of Trade and
excellent technicians and an ethnically diverse talent pool. Because
Industry, SARS, a number of co-production treaties, as well as the
of its proximity to Southeast Asia, it is also a popular destination for
province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Bollywood films with stars like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra gracing Durban with their presence. South Africa recently
How to Get There
signed one of SA’s largest Bollywood deals offering a rebate for two
KwaZulu-Natal is easily accessible through King Shaka International
films by Javed Aboobaker, who will be shooting locally in April.
Airport, the third-largest airport in South Africa. Located on the
KZN is home to one of South Africa’s biggest events on the film
outskirts of Durban, it is conveniently located for ease of travel and
calendar – the Durban International Film Festival and its counterpart,
offers a number of other travel options in and around the city. Prince
Durban FilmMart. Other notable events that take place around the
Mangosuthu Buthelezi Airport in Ulundi is conveniently situated near
festival are the annual Simon Sabela Awards and Talent Campus
a number of National Parks and historic Zulu attractions. Flights can
Durban. This is coordinated by the Durban Film Office in conjunction
be booked through www.federalair.com. KZN’s climate is varied yet
with the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, both of whom support and
verdant, with a subtropical coastline and much cooler inland regions.
facilitate the local film industry in the region along with the Zulu Coast
Durban has warm winters, while the Zululand north coast has the
Film Office.
highest humidity.
Film Requirements
Did You Know?
Film permits are required for most international and local productions
One of South Africa’s most acclaimed local films for 2014 was
in KZN, as with much of the country. Durban Film Office offers the
produced in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Hard To Get tells a twisted Romeo
option of applying for permits online, while more information and
and Juliet story of two young lovers trying to survive in Joburg’s
required documentation is available on all other film commission sites.
underworld.
•
Durban is the fastest growing urban area in the world, with the busiest harbour in South Africa and one of the
© SA Tourism
Facts 10 largest in the world. •
Durban was the first city in South Africa to erect a permanent building for motion pictures – the Electric Theatre in 1909.
•
A number of documentaries and reality formats were filmed in KZN in 2013, including ITV’s 28UP South Africa, SA’s Got Talent, Step Up or Step Out and Ultimate Braai Master.
•
For more information on filming in KwaZulu-Natal, visit www.kwazulunatalfilm.co.za, www.durbanfilmoffice.com or www.film-zulucoast.co.za.
KwaZulu-Natal, flanked by the pristine Indian Ocean, is the perfect location for filming surf scenes.
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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
WESTERN CAPE: Brimming with Production Opportunities
W
ell known for its stunning locations and world-class
parastatals and film industry representative bodies. Some of the
crew, the Western Cape is situated on the tip of
most recent productions that have been filmed in the Western Cape
the African continent. From blue flag beaches to
include Adam Sandler’s Blended, children’s book adaptation The Giver
elegant modern and period era locations – not to
featuring Meryl Streep, and the widely acclaimed, South African
mention home to the state-of-the-art Cape Town Film Studios –
feel-good film Felix. Other noteworthy productions are Wallender,
there’s no end to the possibilities here. The province is a popular
Bluestone 42, Black Sails seasons 1 and 2, local animated feature
production haven for both locals and internationals, with four main
Khumba, and Anant Singh’s Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom featuring
filmmaking regions: the City of Cape Town, the Cape Winelands,
Idris Elba.
George and Plettenberg Bay.
Wesgro also helps facilitate and promote films and locations in the
The Cape Film Commission, established in 2000, helps promote and
region, with Monica Rorvik at the helm of the Film Promotion sector.
facilitate filmmakers and television producers to the Western Cape,
She says that South African locations are a force to be reckoned
working closely with local municipalities, government agencies,
with on the continent and that “the Western Cape has an abundance of world-class locations” for filmmakers. Not only are places like the V&A Waterfront, Stellenbosch and the Table Mountain National Park © Keith Bernstein
renowned for their beauty and touristic appeal, but many are well preserved to ensure environments remain pristine.
Film Requirements It’s not difficult to obtain location permits to places in the Western Cape, although these do take time to process. “Apply for permits as early as possible with the most accurate information you can deliver,” says Rorvik. It should also be noted that the City of Cape Town has the only formalised system for location permits in the province, making it advisable to inquire with various commissions and governing bodies – or to hire a local scout who knows their way
Idris Elba as Nelson Mandela in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.
around the area.
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
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95
• To date, South Africa has entered into eight Audiovisual Co-Production treaties, although these vary from
© SA Tourism
Facts country to country. The National Film and Video Foundation have prepared guidelines for filmmakers applying for Co-Productions. • According to a recent economic impact assessment study ordered by the Cape Film Commission, the film industry’s direct annual turnover reaches over ZAR2.65billion (US$213.9-million) and contributes an indirect annual turnover of more than ZAR3.5-billion (US$282.5million) to the country’s GDP. • At least 21 major projects were shot in South Africa in 2014, most of which were shot on location in the Western Cape, either partially or fully. • More information on filming in the Western Cape can be found at www.capefilmcommission.co.za or www.wesgro.co.za.
Penguins ponder the scene at Boulders Beach, Cape Town.
Due to recent changes in visa requirements, passport holders both
and other parts of the country. The city is easily navigable, sprawled
from non-exempt and visa-exempt countries must apply for short-
around Table Mountain, with quality highways across the province
term work visas. These must be done from the country of origin
connecting smaller coastal towns. The Western Cape’s climate is
rather than at a Port of Entry, so it’s once again advisable to start
Mediterranean, with war, dry summers and mild, moist winters.
preparing travel documents as early as possible. Most applications require a Letter of Invitation, which can be provided by the Cape
Did You Know?
Film Commission upon request. One visa extension is allowed per
Khumba has become one of the most successful films and the
person and applications must be made 60 days before the current
first feature animation to come out of Cape Town. It topped one
visa expires.
million tickets in China recently, grossing over $6-million, ran
How to Get There
in Belgium for an incredible seven months in theatres, had over 500,000 admissions in France and became one of the top-grossing
The Western Cape is easily accessible through Cape Town
independent films of all time in the Netherlands. It also became the
International Airport, which offers a number of international flights
first triple simulcast broadcast in SA when it was shown on TV in
out of South Africa and serves as a connector with Johannesburg,
English, Afrikaans and isiZulu simultaneously on Heritage Day.
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AFRICA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
AFRICA
97
FILMMAKER’S GUIDE TO AFRICA
Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania North © japrea
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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | MOROCCO
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
MOROCCO:
Mediterranean Hollywood © Universal Pictures
Ridley Scott’s Gladiator
COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | MOROCCO
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Major Airports: Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport Film Permits: A film permit from the Moroccan
© Piotr Menducki
Facts:
Cinematographic Centre (CCM) is required for any filming in Morocco. Visas: 66 countries do not require visas to enter the Kingdom of Morocco. Among them are United States of America, Canada, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Great Britain, and France. Travel items: Sunglasses, light clothing, sunscreen
S
Imilchil Lake, Morocco weeping deserts, flawless lakes, and deep gorges comprise
Morocco’s film commission has reported 2014 as a record year
the enthralling country of Morocco. Morocco is home to
for international companies filming in Morocco. 38 international
a number of charming and vibrant cities boasting unique
film productions, with a combined budget of $120-million in 2014,
attractions. From palm-lined boulevards in Casablanca,
constituted a six fold increase from $22-million in the previous year.
picturesque beaches in Agadir, and ancient souks in Marrakech;
The country saw major productions being shot, with its city streets
Morocco caters to every taste.
and deserts as the backdrop, including Christopher McQuarrie’s
Filming in Morocco
anticipated new Bond film Spectre, all releasing this year.
The monarchy has its very own remote Hollywood in the gateway
Mission: Impossible 5 and scenes from American Sniper and the highly
city to the Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate. The marvel that is Ouarzazate
You need to know about
is sprawled across Southern Morocco. Resting atop a bare plateau in
Beyond the epic nature of productions that have been filmed in
the High Atlas Mountains, the dry land is home to unspoiled locations
this location, and the location itself, costs are drastically reduced.
and cultures, unique fortified villages, and traditional Berber adobe
These studios are estimated to give a 50% saving, as the cost of
houses. Gorges in this region, depending on the lighting, appear to be
labour is much less than Western counterparts in the same field, and
red, pink or mauve.
incentives for filming in Morocco include an exemption from VAT on
The desolate city is a noted filmmaking location, and is home to CLA
all costs.
Studios Morocco and Atlas Corporation Studios – the world’s largest movie studio – which extends over 20 hectares.
Climate
World-class directors haven chosen Atlas Corporation Studios as
Morocco has a moderate and subtropical climate, cooled by breezes
their canvas including the likes of David Lean (Lawrence of Arabia
off the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Temperatures range from highs
was made on location here before the studio opened), Martin
of 35°C to lows of 5°C, with hot and dry summer months and inland
Scorsese (Kundun), Ridley Scott (Kingdom of Heaven), and Oliver Stone
regions experiencing a hotter, drier, continental climate. The country
(Alexander the Great). The location was also the set of Mel Gibson’s
enjoys warm winter temperatures and low humidity, and is an ideal
The Passion of the Christ and Ridley Scott’s Gladiator.
filming destination all year round.
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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | NAMIBIA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
NAMIBIA:
Where the desert meets the ocean
Facts Major Airports: Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport Visas: All foreign cast and crew entering Namibia require work visas to film in Namibia. Travel items: Sunscreen, shades, light clothing with a longsleeve top for cool evenings
COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | NAMIBIA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
N
101
amibia is large desert country boasting an extremely
where wildlife thrives. This region serves as a genuine “African
low population density with about two people per
Safari" background for your shot.
square kilometre. From seas of desert dunes to crystal
The Fish River Canyon, one of Namibia’s main tourist attractions,
blue oceans, Namibia is home to spectacular locations.
is the second-biggest of its kind in the world. The gigantic ravine spreads 160 kilometres long, and up to 27 kilometres wide,
Location location location!
offering spectacular views as it cuts deep into the arid plateau.
The Namib Desert, said to be the oldest desert in the world,
The Namib Escarpment is a region between the Namib Desert
stretches along the Atlantic Ocean from Angola to South Africa.
and the Central Plateau is a plain. The landscape is rugged with
This ancient desert offers high-rise dunes and an inspiring sense of
peculiar rock formations, dry river beds, and dissected ground,
space. The dunes display colours from yellow to red across rolling
as a result of the glaring sun. This particular region, although
dunes as far as the eye can see.
easily accessible, is so barren that there is no trace of trees or
Amidst the dunes is a central plateau, home to thorn bush typical
civilisation, giving this region a doomsday atmosphere as seen in
to African drylands, rising mountains, and savannah landscapes
Mad Max: Fury Road.
© Warner Bros Entertainment 2014
© Frank Fassen
Mad Max: Fury Road, produced and co-written by George Miller.
Filming in Namibia The Namib Desert and surrounding areas were the scene for John Moore’s Flight of the Phoenix and Roland Emmerich’s 10 000 BC. Namibia is also the location for the sensational Mad Max: Fury Road movie, produced and co-written by George Miller, released this year. City of Violence is a film exploring the depths of the enduring scars of Apartheid. The French director, Jérôme Salle's blockbuster stars Orlando Bloom and Forrest Whitaker, investigating a spate of horrific murders, with the hostile and arid locations of Namibia as the backdrop. Namibia is fast becoming one of the world’s preferred filming destinations for international film productions, and the country’s attraction of interest from major studios and independents looks promising.
Climate: This unexplored wilderness has a climate typical of semi-desert terrain, enjoying hot days and cool nights. Regional variations in temperature are experienced, yet the country as a whole is predominantly dry, and warm, yet has low humidity. A cold Benguela current keeps the coast cool, damp and free of rain for most of the year. With temperatures in summer ranging between 20°C and 34°C, and sometimes soaring up to 40°C, and between 18°C and 22°C in winter, Namibia is a year-round destination.
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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | NIGERIA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
© Zouzou Wizman
One of three bridges from Lagos Island to the mainland. © Rainer Wozny
Makoko, Nigeria.
NIGERIA:
Africa’s Filmmaking Powerhouse
N
igeria, often referred to as the ‘Giant of Africa’, is the most
is iROKOtv, an online streaming service with access to thousands
populous country on the continent with a fascinating 500
of hours of Nigerian, continental and now international films and
ethnic groups and 250 indigenous languages, of which
television shows. Although the country still only has 23 movie
Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba are the most common. It also
theatres in a nation of almost 170 million, there is untapped potential
boasts one of the biggest film industries in the world, but it is also
in the predominantly young population and rapidly growing middle
a country that plays by its own rules. Nollywood, as the local film
class. According to the Association of Nollywood Core Producers
industry is fondly known as, produces around 1 000 films annually
(ANCOP), the country generated around N126.4 billion (US$800
and has over one million film industry workers. It is the second-largest
million) in film revenue in the last three years. The country has over
producer of movies in the world after Bollywood, and with its unique
30 associations for various professionals in the industry, and is also
and vibrant distribution model – largely local street vendors – it
home the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAAs) and the African
keeps its average film budgets at around US$40 000 (roughly
International Film Festival (AFRIFF). The critically acclaimed film Half
R500 000). This of course, has led to films that are sub-standard
of a Yellow Sun was filmed in Nigeria.
in quality, and has, in turn, begun an educational and upskilling
In 2011, then President Goodluck Jonathan established a US$200
movement in recent years as the government and private sector
million fund for the film industry, making it possible for two film
have realised its international potential.
distributors to establish new channels which commenced business
Perhaps one of the best-known companies to come out of Nigeria
last year. In March 2013, President Jonathan announced the
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Facts • iROKOtv has been hailed as the ‘Netflix of Africa’, and has drawn users from 170 countries worldwide. The streaming platform scored 152 million views by the end of 2011. • The Nigerian film industry is estimated to contribute US$9-billion to Nigeria’s GDP of US$510-billion. • The film industry employs 250 000 directly and one
COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | NIGERIA
105
130 people. • 56% of films are in indigenous languages and 44% are in English. • Piracy is an issue the industry continues to grapple with. The World Bank estimates that for every legitimate copy sold, nine others are pirated. • For more information on filming in Nigeria, contact the
million people indirectly, according to the World Bank
Nigerian Film Corporation (www.services.gov.ng/nfc). For
2011, making Nollywood the largest employer after
support while filming in Lagos, contact the Lagos State
agriculture. The average film production employs
Film Office (www.lagosstate.gov.ng/entities.php?k=206).
Half of a Yellow Sun was filmed in Nigeria.
founding of Project ACTNollywood, a N3-billion (US$17-million)
is the official regulatory agency for the film and video sector, while
grant scheme to support training and skills acquisition for film
Lagos State Film Office assists filmmakers shooting in the capital.
production and distribution. Plans are also afoot for a muchanticipated Lagos Film Village.
Film Requirements
How to Get There Most international and regional flights land in Murtala Muhammed International Airport, with other international airports located in
Nigeria has a host of extraordinary landscapes to choose from
Abuja, Enugu, Kano and Port Harcourt. A number of domestic airports
when filming on location. Its bustling cities in the south are filled to
serve as connections to the rest of the country. Nigeria’s location in
the brim, creating dramatic urban jungles, while its far north holds
the tropics means that its climate varies dramatically during the year
Sahara desert transitioning into savannahs. The far-south boasts
from rainy season to dry season.
idyllic rainforests and beaches, and the southeast and southwest are marked with rugged plateaus. Filming requires permits from the
Did You Know?
Nigerian Film Corporation, as well as Journalist Accreditation from
Nigeria has an energetic culture with a lively young population.
the Federal Ministry of Information. Permits are typically given within
As such, the nightlife and entertainment sectors are enticing and
a couple of days, although it’s always prudent to apply well ahead of
unparalleled to the rest of Africa. Think you can twerk? Visit Lagos
the planned shooting time. The National Film & Video Censors Board
and have your mind blown.
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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | TANZANIA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
TANZANIA:
For scintillating cinematic settings
T
anzania has a wealth of beauty and creatures. The volcanic
National Park. Mount Kilimanjaro towers at 5,895 metres above sea
country boasts tranquil scenes of turquoise waters and
level in northern Tanzania. The mountainous terrain of the country
pearly beaches, as well as a dense concentration of
offers magnificent views and unparalleled elevation scenes.
wildlife. Tanzania has the largest concentration of wildlife
The Ngorongoro Crater is another of Tanzania’s iconic backdrops.
per square kilometre, with more than four million wild animals and
The magnificent volcanic crater spreads 20 kilometres in width and
representatives of 430 species and subspecies. Teeming with game
gorges 600 metres deep. The crater is the largest unflooded and
reserves and national parks while skirted by the warm Indian Ocean,
unbroken caldera in the world.
Tanzania parades a classic African setting.
Land is in abundance in Tanzania. Sprawled over 14,750m² is the
Filming Attractions in Tanzania Africa’s highest point, Mount Kilimanjaro, resides in the Kilimanjaro
incredible Serengeti National Park. The vast terrain comprises savannah and woodlands, as well as the almost treeless grasslands of the Serengeti plains.
COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | TANZANIA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Tanzania has the largest concentration of wildlife per square kilometre, with more than four million wild animals and representatives of 430 species and subspecies. Teeming with game reserves and national parks while skirted by the warm Indian Ocean, Tanzania parades a classic African setting.
“
“
107
© Sidney Baldwin, Warner Bros. Entertainment
© Feans
Tanzania created the backdrop to The Bucket List. © Gopal Vijayaraghavan
Facts Major Airports: Kilimanjaro International Airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport Visas: Visas are required for entry into Tanzania. However, no visas required for South African passport holders. Film Permits: Filming permits are required, and can be obtained from High Commission Travel items: Swimming costume, sunscreen, something warm for cool nights, comfortable walking shoes
Sensory explosion at the Arusha Market in Tanzania. The African paradise, Tanzania, flaunts a jewel: Zanzibar.
Wildlife stampede. Reiner’s feel-good comedy-drama, The Bucket List. Tanzania was also
The prized extension of the country is a semi-autonomous
the backdrop for the classic 1950’s film, The African Queen directed
archipelago. Zanzibar consists of a number of exotic islands
by John Huston, starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.
with pristine beaches offering some of the most picturesque destinations. The islands also serve agricultural scenes of interest,
Climate
including coffee, tea, cotton, and spice plantations for shots of
Situated just below the equator and rugged by the Indian Ocean,
yester-year.
Tanzania offers a tropical climate. As a result of its topography,
Tanzania comprises beauty and substance. This combination,
Tanzania has a regional variation of seasonal temperatures. For the
among other attractions, results in Tanzania being a destination
larger part of the land, temperatures rarely falls below 20 °C, while
of choice for foreign film companies. With its bountiful location
temperatures in the highlands range between 10-20 °C in cooler and
options, it is no surprise that Tanzania was the setting for Rob
warmer months respectively.
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DIARISE
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
JANUARY
APRIL
ROTTERDAM
KKNK
INTERNATIONAL FILM
3 – 11 April
FESTIVAL
Oudtshoorn, South Africa
21 January – 1 February MIPTV
Rotterdam, Netherlands
13 – 16 April SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
Cannes, France
22 January – 1 February TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL
Utah, USA
15 – 26 April CINEMART 24 – 29 January
MARCH
JUNE
New York, USA ANNECY INTERNATIONAL HOT DOCS
ANIMATION FILM
AFCI LOCATION SHOW
DOCUMENTARY FILM
1 – 6 June
SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM
5 – 7 March
FESTIVAL
Annecy, France
FESTIVAL
Los Angeles, USA
23 April - 3 May
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Toronto, Canada
29 January – 1 February San Diego, USA
ENCOUNTERS
LUXOR AFRICAN FILM
DOCUMENTARY FILM
FESTIVAL
FESTIVAL
Cairo, Egypt
MAY
ADFEST
AFRICAN, ASIAN & LATIN
EUROPEAN FILM MARKET
19 – 21 March
AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL
AMERICAN BLACK FILM
3 – 15 February
Pattaya, Thailand
MILAN
FESTIVAL
4 – 10 May
11 – 14 June
Milan, Italy
New York, USA
BROADBAND & TV
ZANZIBAR
CONNECT ASIA 2015
INTERNATIONAL FILM
NORTH CAROLINA BLACK
12 – 13 May
FESTIVAL
JOZI FILM FESTIVAL
FILM FESTIVAL
Suntec, Singapore
18 – 26 June
19 – 22 February
26 – 29 March
Johannesburg, South Africa
North Carolina, USA
ALUTA FILM FESTIVAL
MERCEDES-BENZ BOKEH
26 – 28 February
FASHION FILM FESTIVAL
Durban, South Africa
27 – 28 March
SATCOM AFRICA
Cape Town, South Africa
26 – 27 May
16 – 21 March
FEBRUARY
4 – 14 June Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa
Berlin, Germany SAFTAS BERLIN FILM FESTIVAL
20 – 22 March
5 – 15 February
Johannesburg, South Africa
Berlin, Germany
PAN AFRICAN FILM &
Zanzibar, Tanzania CANNES FILM FESTIVAL 13 – 24 May
CANNES LIONS
Cannes, France
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 21 – 27 June
Johannesburg, South Africa
Cannes, France AFRICAN MOVIE
TELEVISION FESTIVAL OF
CINEMAFRICA FILM
OUAGADOUGOU
FESTIVAL
OTT TV AND VOD SUMMIT
(AMAA)
28 February – 7 March
27 – 29 March
26 – 28 May
June
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Stockholm, Sweden
Johannesburg, South Africa
Lagos, Nigeria
ACADEMY AWARDS
DIARISE
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109
NOVEMBER DISCOP AFRICA 4 – 6 November Johannesburg, South Africa AMERICAN FILM MARKET 4 – 11 November California, USA AFI FEST
JULY
5 – 12 November
INDEPENDENT MZANSI
CAIRO INTERNATIONAL
SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
FILM FESTIVAL
2 - 5 July
8 – 17 November
Johannesburg, South Africa
Cairo, Egypt
California, USA
OCTOBER
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL 2 – 12 July
DOCKANEMA FILM FESTIVAL 8 – 29 November
MIPCOM
Grahamstown, South Africa
Pedro Pimenta, Mozambique
5 – 8 October MEDIATECH AFRICA
Cannes, France
15 – 17 July
AFRICACOM 17 – 19 November
BFI LONDON FILM
Johannesburg, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
FESTIVAL DURBAN INTERNATIONAL
7 – 18 October
NEW YORK AFRICAN
FILM FESTIVAL
London, England
DIASPORA FILM FESTIVAL
16 – 26 July
23 November – 11
Durban, South Africa
SHNIT INTERNATIONAL
December
SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
New York, USA
DURBAN FILMMART
7 – 18 October
17 – 20 July
Clermont-Ferrand, France
Durban, South Africa
SEPTEMBER
KUNJANIMATION TBC November
SILICON VALLEY AFRICAN
Cape Town, South Africa
FILM FESTIVAL
AUGUST
TORONTO
16 – 18 October
INTERNATIONAL FILM
Silicon Valley, USA
FESTIVAL
DECEMBER
ANIMATION FESTIVAL
10 – 20 September
AFRICA IN MOTION
1 - 2 August
Toronto, Canada
22 – 31 October
MANDELA
Glasgow, Scotland
INTERNATIONAL FILM
New York, USA
FESTIVAL
URBANWORLD FILM FEMALES IN FILM AND TV
FESTIVAL
ABUJA INTERNATIONAL
3 – 13 December
INDUSTRY FESTIVAL
17 – 21 September
FILM FESTIVAL
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
6 –10 August
New York, USA
27 – 30 October
Johannesburg, South Africa
Lagos, Nigeria
MARRAKECH INTERNATIONAL FILM
CAPE WINELANDS FILM FESTIVAL
PHOTO & FILM EXPO
FESTIVAL
10 – 16 August
27 August – 5 September
28 October – 1 November
4 – 12 December
Durban, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
Marrakech, Morocco
©Derek Serra
LOERIES CREATIVE WEEK
110
FUNDING ASSOCIATIONS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
FUNDING ASSOCIATIONS
British Council The British Council in South Africa aims to build partnerships with local and UK organizations to deliver development projects, arts events, skills
Business and Arts South Africa
training, policy dialogues and examination services.
Chicago Underground Film Fund
The council in recent years has created campaigns that
The Chicago Underground
The fund is motivated
Business and Arts South
provide certain grants for
Film Festival established its
towards supporting and
Africa (NPC) promotes
filmmakers if the project
film fund five years ago. The
promoting works that push
mutually beneficial,
has a link to Britain. The
aid of the fund was to help
boundaries defy commercial
equitable and sustainable
council also may provide
support underground and
expectations and transcend
business-arts partnerships
funding for a visit to a
independent film makers.
the mainstream of
for the benefit of the
British film festival if your
The fund specifically looks
independent filmmaking.
whole of society. We do
film is being screened there.
at candidates that share
The fund is open to all film
this through research and
t: +27 11 718 4300
the festival’s spirit and
and video directors and
seminars that examine the
f: +27 11 718 4402
defiant attitude. Selected
producers.
arts-business relationships.
e: information@
winners will receive cash
t: +1 773 327 3456
t: +27 11 447 2295
britishcouncil.org.za
grants of between $500 and
f: +1 773 327 3464
e: info@basa.co.za
www.britishcouncil.org/
$2000 for post production
e: info@cuff.org
www.basa.co.za
southafrica
on works-in-progress.
www.cuff.org
FUNDING ASSOCIATIONS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Additional Cinema Funds
South African Co-Production Treaties
African cinema can also apply for funding from the likes of:
• South Africa / Canada, 1997
• Africa Caribbean Pacific Films
• South Africa / Italy, 2003
• Atelier des Journees Cinematographiques De Carthage
• South Africa / Germany, 2004
• Fonds Images Afrique
• South Africa / United Kingdom, 2007
• Francophone Fund For Audiovisual Production of the South
• South Africa / France, 2010
• The Global Film Initiative
• South Africa / Australia, 2010
• The Hubert Bals Fund
• South Africa / New Zealand, 2011
• The National Empowerment Fund
• South Africa / Ireland, 2012
111
• SANAD • Visions Sud Est • The World Cinema Fund • World Cinema Support Fund
French Institute The French Institute in over the last few years have created various programs to assist those in the creative arts industry. The institute each year under the IFASCulture umbrella offers a bursary in the field of
Frameline Completion Fund
Wesgro
theatre and mime to South African artists who would like to attend the Lecoq
The Frameline Completion
School in Paris (France). The purposeful effort to address
main aim is to promote the
to both established and
the shortage of gay film
exchange of South African
emerging filmmakers. This
makers in the industry and
and French arts and culture.
program was created to
additionally to encourage
Specifically for film makers
provide financial aid and
gay film makers to tell their
the French Institute calls for
support to artists who often
story. Grants in a range
those interested to submit
struggle to secure funding
of $1000 to $3,000 are
proposals for funding for
to complete their works.
available for projects in the
their various films.
The fund specifically targets
final stages of production.
t: +27 11 836 0561/2/3/4
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and
t: +415 703 8650
f: +27 11 836 5850
transgender film and video
e: info@frameline.org
e: ifas@ifas.org.za
makers. This is done as a
www.frameline.org
www.ifas.org.za
©Wavescape Surf Film Festival 2014
Fund provides grants
Wesgro is the official Destination Marketing, Investment and Trade Promotion Agency for the Western Cape, located in Cape Town. We are the first point of contact for foreign buyers, local exporters and investors wishing to take advantage of the unlimited business potential in the region. t: +27 21 487 8600 e: info@wesgro.co.za wesgro.co.za
112
FIXERS IN AFRICA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
FIXERS IN AFRICA NAME
COMPANY NAME/ FREELANCE
COUNTRY
SPECIALITY
CONTACT DETAILS
Ayubu Kasasa
Freelance
Rwanda
Director, Producer, Securing Film Permits and Sourcing Local Actors
Tel: +25 07 88 844 473
Bernd
Lemon Reel Film Services
Namibia
Scouting, Locations, Permits and Local Crew/ Equipment
Tel: +264 81 122 7717 Email: bernd@lemonreel.com
Brad Logan BLM
Productions Film and Stills Production
South Africa: Cape Town, Durban
Production, Locations
Tel: +27 21 437 1621
Caleb Bahati Kabanda
Freelance
Democratic Republic of Congo
News crews in politically volatile areas
Tel: +243 82 249 1027 Email: calebkaban@yahoo.fr
Coen Oldenhof and Hary Rason
CinĂŠroutes
Madagascar
Fixer/producer, Crews, Documentaries
Tel: +261 32 400 0404 Tel: +261 32 021 7843 Email: cineroutes@moov.mg Email: routes.2000@wxs.nl
Colette Massier
Desert Rain Films
Namibia
Landscapes, Wildlife, People, Cinematography
Tel: +264 81 659 5405 Email: colette@naankuse.com
Derrick Kibisi
talking film PRODUCTION
Uganda
Producer/Crew Fixer
Tel: +25 6792 902 991 Email: dkibisi@talkingfilmproduction.com
Gavin McJannet
Farm Film
Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Congo, Nigeria, Swaziland, Zambia
Producer/Fixer/Documentaries/ Locations
Tel: +27 21 424 7714 Email: gavin@farmfilm.tv
Ginger Wilson
Ginger Ink Producer
Nairobi
Locations, People, Equipment, Ccrew, Logistics
Email: info@gingerink.tv
Helen Atty
Two Seas TV
South Africa
Locations, People, Equipment, Crew, Logistics
Email: helen@twoseas.cc
Jean Hartley
Viewfinders EPZ Ltd
Kenya
Facilitation, Documentary Film Crews, Permits
Tel: +254 716 875928 Email: info@viewfindersltd.com
Joseph Muwowo
Mystic Pictures Zambia
Zambia
Post-Production, Electronic News Gathering, Shooting
Tel: +26 0955 558 259
FIXERS IN AFRICA
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
Wildlife Documentary Production, Reality Production, Budget Development
113
Karen Brooks
Freelance
South Africa, Lesotho, Malawi, Swaziland, Zambia,
Tel: +27 83 259 6324 Email: kbrooks@netactive.co.za
Lesley-Anne Mulder
Outbound Film
Namibia, Zambia
LĂŠonce Ngabo
Freelance
Burundi
Researching
Tel: + 257 79 563 611 Email: lngabo@yahoo.fr
Margie McMahon
Freelance
Nigeria, Zambia, Tanzania, Seychelles,Ghana
Line Producing, Locations, Logistics, Equipment
Tel: +27 21 422 1321 Email: mcmahon@icon.co.za
Paul van der Ploeg
Sandstone Logistics
Namibia
Scouting, Location Management, Permits, Environmental Impact Studies
Tel: +264 81 2769 Email: paulnamibia@iway.na
Ramses Mahfoudh
Godolphin Films
Tunisia
Researching
Tel: +216 71 755 610 Email: Info@godolphin-films.com
Richard and Janice Beatty
African Environments
Tanzania
Location, Accommodation, Talent Finding, Aerial Filming
Tel: +255 27 250 8625 Email: beatty@africanenvironments.co.tz> janiceb@africanenvironments.com
Rick Matthews
Big Banana Films
South Africa, Namibia
Producer / Location Scout / Photographer
Tel: +27 11 880 6686 Email: bigbanana@mweb.co.za
Rob Clifford
Robin Pope Safaris
Zambia
Wildlife-specific Fixer
Tel: +260 978 695 732 Email: rob@robinpopesafaris.net
Rob Neuhold and Greg Chater
Forward Motion
South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia and other parts of Southern Africa
Documentaries, feature films, TV commercials, reality TV, wildlife series, corporate videos, event live streaming
Tel: +27 72 879 7921 (Rob) Email: rob@forwardmotion.tv Tel: +27 71 857 6363 Email: greg@forwardmotion.tv (Greg)
Tania Jenkins
AfriScreen Films
Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia
Editorial ideas, Logistical Support and Production Management
Tel: +267 680 1123 / 6862570 Email: tania.jenkins@afriscreen.com
Zablon Beyene
Zab Ethiopia Tours
Ethiopia
Researching, Locations Management
Tel: +251 118 60 85 64 Email: zablon@zabtoursethiopia.com
Tel: +264 81 458 6554 (Namibia) Email: lesley@outboundfilm.co.za
Š Candy Kennedy
114
CLASSIFIEDS ACCOMMODATION
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
ACCOMMODATION
BROADCAST EQUIPMENT
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Cape Winelands, NH The Lord Charles welcomes guests with warm hospitality and eortless
Awarded Best All Suite Hotel for 2010.
luxury. Located 20 minutes from Cape Town
30 one or two bedroom sea-facing suites, each
International Airport and only 10 minutes
with en-suite bathroom, separate lounge and
from Cape Town Film Studios, the hotel oers
dining room, kitchen, private balcony and free Wi-
198 beautifully appointed bedrooms and
Fi access. Facilities include The George restaurant,
a fully equipped conference centre with a
bar and lounge, spa and swimming pool.
capacity of up to 1500 delegates.
Specialists in service to the Production Industry.
Jaco du Plooy
Corner Hill & Romney Roads,
Arne Sack
t: +27 21 855 1040
Green Point, Cape Town
75 Fleet Street, Ferndale, Randburg
f: +27 21 855 1107
t: +27 21 439 4555
m: 082 576 1366
e: j.duplooy@nh-hotels.co.za
f: +27 21 439 4747
t: +27 11 462 0000
www.nh-hotels.co.za
e: info@romneypark.co.za
e: info@pro-sales.co.za
www.nh-hotels.com
www.romneypark.co.za
www.pro-sales.co.za
CASTING DIRECTORS
CONSUMABLES
DIVING AND MARINE SUPPORT
At Kayos Casting Directors we are passionate about making sure that everyone we work with looks good. It's that simple and is what still drives us after nearly 20 years and
Sourcing and delivery of digital storage media and technical consumables to
The Frog Squad is the premier commercial
the film, stills and tv industry.
diving and marine support service to the South African Film Industry.
+- 4500 television commercials. Contact:
genevieve le cordeur
Monique Murray /
m: +27 82 335 3973
Cape Town, South Africa
Kay Price-Lindsay
t: +27 21 447 8857
t: 0823496688 / 0823400991
Unit 5, Zoe Park, Capricorn Park
t: +27 21 462 6353
f: +27 86 697 1082
e: jason@frogsquad.co.za /
e: monique@kayos.co.za
e: gen@hotsource.tv
jimmy@frogsquad.co.za
www.kayos.co.za
www.hotsource.tv
www.frogsquad.co.za
CLASSIFIEDS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
MULTI-MEDIA PRODUCTION
PRODUCTION COMPANY
PRODUCTION COMPANY
Velocity Afrika produces commercials
Commercial & Video Production
115
We offer clients true 360° strategically driven creative solutions. We are devoted to producing the most innovative and highest-quality productions across a variety of media platforms, from Broadcast Design to Bespoke Event Solutions, Online and Social Media Videos, Animation, On-Air Promos, Visual Effects, AV Production, Post-Production and Print Design.
in SA and on the African continent. The team values their uncanny ability to shoot anywhere – from the forests of Cameroon to the urban surrounds of Johannesburg.
Events Management & Activations Artist Management
Orijin CPT & JHB m. +27 83 414 6788
38 Wessel Road, Rivonia, Johannesburg
t: 011 465 4066
t. +27 21 686 1411
t: +27 11 807 0883
e: kirsten@witchwizard.co.za
e. info@orijin.co.za
e: monareng@velocityafrika.co.za
jenny@witchwizard.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
www.velocityafrika.co.za
www.witchwizard.co.za
TWO-WAY RADIOS
VIDEO / DIGITAL EQUIPMENT
facebook: www.facebook/orijin
PHYSICAL SPECIAL EFFECTS
Need two-way radios for a commercial,
Cape Town’s quirkiest HD video camera
movie, event or short term project?
and digital cinema equipment rental house.
MXFX is headed by the Emmy award winning
Need two-way radios throughout
Zootee Studios caters to indie filmmakers
Max Poolman who has over 32 year’s
South Africa? Need them urgently?
needing cameras at affordable rates ranging
Working to a budget?
from RED DRAGONs to DSLRS. We also
experience in the film and effects business. We offer: Rain bars
Electric / Gas Smoke Machines Wind Machines
and Bubble Machines
Snow, Fog
Need advice on what to get?
hire out grips, lighting, sound and
Use Lazer Communications.
studio space. Plus we’re friendly, solar
Air Cannons
powered and smell nice. Winning.
16 Transvaal Street, Paarden Eiland,
2 Berkley Road,
Unit 10B Gold Street, Northgate
Cape Town, 7405
Maitland, Cape Town
Business Park (in Northgate Estate),
t: +27 21 510 0076
t: +27 21 510 5450
Brooklyn, Cape Town, 7405
f: +27 21 510 0087
f: +27 21 510 2622
t: +27 21 510 1928 / +27 21 510 4641
e: max@mxfx.co.za
e: info@lazer.co.za
e: info@zooteestudios.com
www.mxfx.co.za
www.lazer.co.za
www.zooteestudios.com
118
DIRECTORY A- Z
COMPANY
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
+27 21 439 4555
info@romneypark.co.za
www.romneypark.co.za
Film Product Placement
+27 11 824 3750
wendy@filmproductplacement.co.za
www.filmproductplacement.co.za
Marnox Media
+27 11 789 6614
mark@marnox.co.za
www.marnox.co.za
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
CIVAIR Helicopters & Aeroplanes (Pty) ltd
+27 21 934 4488
info@civair.co.za
FC Hamman Films
+27 11 465 2210
fch@iafrica.com
www.fchammanfilms.co.za
Bugbox Animation
+27 11 875 2303
margo@bugbox.co.za
www.bugbox.co.za
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
+27 21 510 0076
max@mxfx.co.za
www.mxfx.co.za
115
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
Sony South Africa
+27 11 690 3200
anu.thomas@eu.sony.com
www.sony-psmea.com
Inside Back Cover
Zootee Studios
+27 21 510 1928
info@zooteestudios.com
www.zooteestudios.com
115
+27 21 864 2872
action@bickers.co.za
www.bickers.co.za
+27 82 658 7987
kay@kayos.co.za
www.kayos.co.za
+27 21 934 4488
info@civair.co.za
Accommodation Romney Park
114
Advertising
115
Aerial Filming
Animation
Animation & FX MXFX Audio Visual Orijin Broadcast Television Orijin Camera Equipment
Camera Rentals & Broadcast Sales Bickers Action SA Casting Studio Kayos
114
Charter CIVAIR Helicopters & Aeroplanes (Pty) ltd
Commercials Production Company Axis International
+27 21 713 1424
noel@axisinternational.co.za
www.axisinternational.co.za
Birdfilm
+27 21 448 8771
alan@birdfilm.com
www.birdfilm.com
Farm Film Africa
+27 21 424 7714
gavin@farmfilm.tv
www.farmfilm.tv/farm-africa/
Groundglass (PTY) Ltd
+27 21 422 2591
gabby@groundglass.co.za
www.groundglass.co.za
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
+27 21 447 8857
gen@hotsource.tv
www.hotsource.tv
114
Consumables Hot Source
DIRECTORY A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
COMPANY
119
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
Film Freight cc
+27 11 706 0143
vivian@filmfreight.co.za
www.filmfreight.co.za
Royale International
+27 861 769 253
helga@royaleafrica.com
SAE Institute
+27 21 469 3600
capetown@sae.edu
www.capetown.sae.edu
83
DTI
+27 12 394 1681
contactus@thedti.gov.za
www.dti.gov.za
Outside Back Cover
82
Couriers
55, 99
Creative Media Institute
Director / DOP / Cinematographer Say Cheese Productions
+27 63 775 6952
pmcgee@ion.co.za
Lift Up Teleporter
+27 21 418 7773
info@liftup.capetown
www.liftup.capetown
Media Film Service Cape Town
+27 21 511 3300
info@mediafilmservice.com
www.mediafilmservice.com
Media Film Service Johannesburg
+27 11 258 5000
info@mediafilmservice.com
www.mediafilmservice.com
Panalux
+27 21 529 4200
michele.starnaud@panalux.co.za
www.panalux.biz
Inside Front Cover
Panavision SA / Panalux
+27 21 555 1780
nicholas.doble@panavision.za.com
www.panavision.com
1
Say Cheese Productions
+27 63 775 6952
pmcgee@ion.co.za
Visual Impact
+27 11 788 9879
goran@visuals.tv
www.visuals.tv
78
+27 21 510 5450
info@lazer.co.za
www.lazer.co.za
115
+27 11 462 0000
info@pro-sales.co.za
www.pro-sales.co.za
114
+27 83 263 9489
mbp@vodamail.co.za
www.mandelabaypictures.com
64
Cape Film Commission
+27 21 701 0924
info@capefilmcommission.co.za
Gauteng Film Commission
+27 11 833 0409
puisano@gautengfilm.org.za
www.gautengfilm.org.za
22
KZN Film Commission
+27 33 355 6515
info@kwazulunatalfilm.co.za
www.kwazulunatalfilm.co.za
24
South African Film Commission
+27 21 701 0924
info@southafricanfilmcommission.com
Zulu Coast Film Office
+27 35 799 2582
mavundlan@uthungulo.co.za
www.film-zulucoast.co.za
32
DIFF
+27 31 260 2506
diff@ukzn.ac.za
www.durbanfilmfest.co.za
2
Aon
+27 11 944 7290
info@aon.co.za
www.aon.co.za
84
+27 82 506 8312
pascal@aaa-entertain.com
www.aaa-entertain.com
62
+27 82 411 4088
jane@filmfinances.co.za
www.filmfinances.com
84
Equipment Rental
Equipment Rental - Two-way Radios Lazer Communications Equipment Supplier Pro-Sales
Facilitating Growth & Development – Film & Television Mandela Bay Pictures Film Commission
Film Festival
Film Sales and Distribution AAA Entertainment Financial Institution Film Finances SA
120
DIRECTORY A- Z
COMPANY
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
+27 861 274 96753
films.support@cpiworld.co.za
www.cpiword.co.za
+27 11 783 0474
genie@igpcc.co.za
www.igpcc.co.za
+27 83 229 1811
res@pakamisa.co.za
www.pakamisa.co.za
+27 21 487 4868
monica@wesgro.co.za
www.wesgro.co.za
6
+44 20 3033 4000
delegates@canneslions.com
www.canneslions.com
116
+1 312 650 9275
info@intlmediaconcierge.com
www.intlmediaconcierge.com
89
+27 11 885 2042
klr@movievision.co.za
www.movievision.co.za
Aquila Game Reserve
+27 21 430 7260
res@aquilasafari.com
www.aquilasafari.com
14
Cape Nature
+27 21 200 1388
locations@permitz.co.za
www.permitz.co.za
16
CTICC
+27 21 410 5000
info@cticc.co.za
www.cticc.co.za
18
JHB Expo Centre
+27 11 494 1920
info@expocentre.co.za
www.expocentre.co.za
20
Kurland Hotel
+27 44 534 8082
info@kurland.co.za
www.kurland.co.za
26
Mountain Marina
+27 21 421 3075
info@mountainmarina.com
www.mountainmarina.com
85
NH The Lord Charles Hotel
+27 21 855 1040
info@nh-hotels.co.za
www.nh-hotels.co.za
114
The Rockwell All Suite Hotel
+27 21 421 0015
reservations@rockwellhotel.co.za
www.rockwellhotel.co.za
30
+27 21 408 7632
locations@waterfront.co.za
www.waterfront.co.za
34
+27 21 790 0972
jessica@perfecthideaways.co.za
www.perfecthideaways.co.za
85
+27 82 349 6688
jason@frogsquad.co.za
www.frogsquad.co.za
114
+27 11 824 3750
wendy@wmta.co.za
www.wmta.co.za
Film Payroll CPI
53
Full Service Video & Photography - Studio / Agency IGProductions Game Reserve / Lodge Pakamisa Private Game Reserve Government Agency Wesgro International Festival Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
International Film Travel Services International Media Concierge Lighting, Sound & Staging Movievision Location
Location & Venue V & A Waterfront Location Agent Perfect Hideaways Marine Film Company Frog Squad Modeling Agencies Wendy's Talent Agency
Music & Sound Design - Film / Commercial Arcadia Sound
+27 83 963 9220
tristan@arcadiasound.com
www.arcadiasound.com
TheWorkRoom Audio Post
+27 21 426 5497
info@theworkroom.co.za
www.theworkroom.co.za
DIRECTORY A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
COMPANY
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
+27 72 698 3834
dave@mantrasound.co.za
www.mantrasound.co.za
+27 11 438 7038
publishing7@sheer.co.za
www.sheerpublishing.co.za
+27 82 333 9901
hello@brettrubin.com
www.brettrubin.com
77
+27 21 447 6326
info@roodebloemstudios.co.za
www.roodebloemstudios.co.za
74
Loco VFX
+27 83 414 0026
info@locovfx.com
www.locovfx.com
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
Ministry of Illusion
+27 11 463 8538
wendy@moi.co.za
www.moi.co.za
Refinery
+27 11 799 7800
info@refinery.co.za
www.refinery.co.za
TheWorkRoom Audio Post
+27 21 426 5497
info@theworkroom.co.za
www.theworkroom.co.za
Waterfront Film Studios
+27 87 742 2210
ivan@lasernet.co.za
www.waterfrontfilmstudios.com
85
+27 21 447 1139
info@endpost.co.za
www.endpost.co.za
76
Lucky Fish Productions
+27 21 424 3513
platon@luckyfishproductions.co.za
www.luckyfishproductions.co.za
70
Ministry of Illusion
+27 11 463 8538
wendy@moi.co.za
www.moi.co.za
Moonlighting Film Production Services
+27 21 447 2209
philip@moonlighting.co.za
www.moonlighting.co.za
66
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
Plank Film Productions
+27 21 461 0887
anco@plank.co.za
www.plank.co.za
75
The Shooting Gallery
+27 21 461 7600
claire@theshootinggallery.co.za
www.theshootinggallery.co.za
67
alan@birdfilm.com
www.birdfilm.com
Music and Sound Design David Housten
76
Music Supervisory / Clearances Sheer Publishing Photographers Vatic Photographic Studio Roodebloem Studios Post Production
115
77
Post Production Studios End Post Production Production Company
Production Company - Commercial Service Birdfilm
+27 21 448 8771
Cinergy
+27 21 447 4700
Farm Film Africa
+27 21 424 7714
gavin@farmfilm.tv
ShootAway Production
+27 82 475 1212
info@shootawayproduction.com
www.cinergy.tv www.farmfilm.tv
Production Company - Directors Cinergy
+27 21 447 4700
www.cinergy.tv
Direction Films
+27 21 461 0887
anco@directionfilms.tv
www.directionfilms.tv
Groundglass (PTY) Ltd
+27 21 422 2591
gabby@groundglass.co.za
www.groundglass.co.za
Production Company - Film & Television DO Productions (Pty) Ltd
+27 82 451 5492
marlow@doproductions.com
www.doproductions.com
Film Afrika
+27 21 461 7950
belinda.johnson@filmarika.com
www.filmafrika.com
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
121
122
DIRECTORY A- Z
COMPANY
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
African Film Services
+27 21 424 9999
info@afsproductions.com
www.afsproductions.com
63
Black Brain
+27 11 709 6600
info@blackbrain.co.za
www.blackbrain.co.za
64
Bouffant
+27 11 234 8820
peter@bouffant.tv
www.bouffant.tv
76
Can-Can Films
+27 83 227 3041
di@can-canfilms.co.za
www.can-canfilms.co.za
69
Cape Direct
+27 21 424 4495
production@capedirect.com
www.capedirect.com
69
Ginger Pictures
+27 11 888 8240
julie@gingerpictures.tv
www.gingerpictures.tv
69
Hungry Films
+27 11 482 2171
info@hungryfilms.co.za
www.hungryfilms.co.za
70
Imwe Namibia Holdings
+264 64 46 3371
gwen@namibiafilms.com
www.imwe.com.na
102
Metal Tiger Productions
+27 21 448 8794
liz@metaltigerproductions.co.za
www.metaltigerproductions.co.za
65
Orijin
+27 21 686 411
info@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
Spitfire Films
+27 11 325 6227
liesl@spitfirefilms.tv
www.spitfirefilms.tv
70
Two Oceans Productions
+27 21 506 3300
top@topproductions.co.za
www.topproduction.de
68
Velocity Afrika
+27 11 807 0883
monareng@velocityafrika.co.za
www.velocityafrika.co.za
115
Velocity Films
+27 11 807 0100
helena@velocityfilms.com
www.velocityfilms.com
77
Wink
+27 21 424 4971
alison@winkfilms.tv
www.winkfilms.tv
78
Witch & Wizard Productions
+27 11 465 6066
kirsten@witchwizard.co.za
www.witchwizard.co.za
115
+27 11 438 7037
mandrew@skumba.co.za
www.sheerpublishing.co.za
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
+27 61 497 2945
info@inspirefurniture.co.za
www.inspirefurniture.co.za
84
+27 11 887 9351
johnharrison@southernlighting.co.za
www.southernlighting.co.za
+27 21 465 0000
info@aubergine.co.za
www.aubergine.co.za
+27 21 425 2170
info@proevents-sa.co.za
www.proevents-sa.co.za
Plaster Art
+27 21 531 3609
info@plaster-art.co.za
www.plaster-art.co.za
Sets Non Stop
+27 11 882 8822
action@setsnonstop.co.za
www.setsnonstop.co.za
+27 21 785 5487
soundtrax@icon.co.za
Production House
Production Music Skumba Music Library Production TV Orijin Props Inspire Furniture Rental Companies Southern Lighting Solutions Restaurant Aubergine Restaurant Security Services Pro Events
9
Set Design & Construction
Sound Recording Sound-Trax (Pty) Ltd.
47
DIRECTORY A- Z
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
COMPANY
TEL
WEBSITE
PAGE
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
115
Vincent Shantall
+27 21 511 9676
viscreatect@mweb.co.za
www.visualc.co.za
78
+27 83 376 9044
michael@michaelcarstensen.com
www.michaelcarstensen.com
+27 83 338 7800
joe@joealblas.com
www.joealblas.com
+27 21 511 9151
info@stuntco.co.za
www.stuntco.co.za
+27 21 465 1000
info@ermstars.com
www.ermstars.com
+27 76 453 6497
film@cellucity.co.za
www.cellucity.co.za
59
+27 87 150 0100
info@lionpark.com
www.lionpark.com
28
+27 21 461 7950
seton@filmsa.co.za
www.filmsa.co.za
4
+27 21 426 2727
info@foliotranslations.com
www.folio-online.co.za
41
+27 21 906 0429
info@imvusatransport.co.za
Imperial Truck Rental
+27 21 551 7687
donreh@i-t-r.co.za
www.imperialtruckrental.co.za
11
Value Logistics
+27 86 010 0046
traceylr@value.co.za
www.value.co.za
71
+27 21 975 6907
sales@goldtravel.co.za
www.goldtravel.co.za
39
+27 21 424 1661
avisfilm@avis.co.za
www.avis.com
117
+27 21 511 8501
carolync@kempston.co.za
www.kempston.co.za
95
Loco VFX
+27 83 414 0026
info@locovfx.com
www.locovfx.com
Orijin
+27 83 414 6788
rudy@orijin.co.za
www.orijin.co.za
+27 72 230 3206
nerinepienaar@gmail.com
www.wardrobehire.co.za
Special Effects
Steadicam Owner Operator Michael Carstensen Steadicam Stills Photographer Joe Alblas
79
Stunts The Stunt Company
Talent Management & Castings Emma Ress Management Telecommunications Cellucity Tourist Destination Lion Park Training and Skills Developer FILM Translation Services Folio Translation Consultants Transport & Logistics Imvusa Transport Transport Rental
Travel Agent Gold Travel Vehicle Hire AVIS Rent-A-Car Vehicle Hire Bloemfontein Kempston Visual Effects
Wardrobe & Costume Rental The Wardrobe Studio Johannesburg
115
123
124
CREDITS
www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
2015 The Filmmakers Guide to Africa (fmg) is an annual African film industry marketing publication targeted at an international audience. As a marketing resource and information guide it makes a strong financial and strategic case for shooting in Africa by detailing incentives, rebates and subsidies, exploring regional features, locations, and logistics and creating a thorough overview of the infrastructure and experience that Africa has to offer. fmg is Africa’s premier marketing tool for African film.
CREDITS publisher Lance Gibbons strategic director Kathy English Brower executive editor Katie Reynolds contributing writer Kevin Kriedemann head of design Sheree Steenkamp editorial & design coordinator Kim Muller editorial assistant Carryn Gabriels group sales manager Lloyd Kirsten account executive Jennifer Dianez account executive Theo Jacobs production coordinator Tammi Klein business manager Taryn Fowler sales coordinator Tracey-Anne Arendse cover photographer © Brett Rubin: www.brettrubin.com photographic contributions Thank you to all the photographers, governments, organizations and advertisers who contributed. published by Film & Event Media copyright ©Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa. The copyright, including the right of reproduction in any form, of all material in the Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa is expressly reserved in terms of section 12 (7) of the South African Copyright Act. isbn number 978-0-620-65326-8 printing tandym print www.tandym.co.za for advertising queries Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa Please contact: +27 21 674 0646
Film & Event Media (FEM) is dedicated to growing and developing the film and business events industry in Africa. FEM publications include: The Event, Africa’s Leading Meetings Industry Magazine, The Callsheet, Africa’s Leading Film Industry Magazine, Event Planner’s Guide to Africa, and Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa.
ALSO ONLINE Visit Filmmaker Africa (www.filmmakerafrica.co.za) to access Film & Event Media’s filmrelated products including The Filmmakers Guide to South Africa (fmg) – the annual African film industry marketing publication targeted at an international audience, and The Callsheet – an award-winning monthly trade publication for the African film industry, which covers the commercials, features, stills, television, new media, and corporate videos markets. For Advertising Queries for The Filmmakers Guide to Africa and the range of publications and online products available from Film & Event Media please contact: +27 21 674 0646
57 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont, 7708 Cape Town, South Africa Tel: +27 21 674 0646 www.filmeventmedia.co.za disclaimer Opinions expressed in the Filmmaker’s Guide to Africa do not necessarily represent the official viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/ advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, Film & Event Media and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or omission committed by any person, including a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication.