Mbongeni Ngema, a distinguished South African musician and creator of the musical “Sarafina!,” died on Wednesday in a car accident. He was 68.
“Ngema was killed in a head-on car accident while returning from a funeral he was attending in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape this evening,” his family said in a statement to the Associated Press. It is understood that he was a passenger in the car.
A playwright, producer and composer, he is best known for creating the 1987 stage musical “Sarafina!,” which tells the tale of a student woman who sees her teacher sent to jail and inspires other to fight against the racial segregation system known as apartheid. In 1981, he also created “Woza Albert,” a satirical stage drama in which Jesus Christ returns to Earth as a black South African.
“Sarafina!,” with lyrics co-written by Hugh Masekela, first opened at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg with Leleti Khumalo in the title role.
“Ngema was killed in a head-on car accident while returning from a funeral he was attending in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape this evening,” his family said in a statement to the Associated Press. It is understood that he was a passenger in the car.
A playwright, producer and composer, he is best known for creating the 1987 stage musical “Sarafina!,” which tells the tale of a student woman who sees her teacher sent to jail and inspires other to fight against the racial segregation system known as apartheid. In 1981, he also created “Woza Albert,” a satirical stage drama in which Jesus Christ returns to Earth as a black South African.
“Sarafina!,” with lyrics co-written by Hugh Masekela, first opened at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg with Leleti Khumalo in the title role.
- 12/28/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Screen is profiling every submission for best international feature at the 96th Academy Awards.
Entries for the 2024 Oscar for best international feature are underway, and Screen is profiling each one on this page.
The 96th Academy Awards is set to take place on March 10, 2024 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) produced outside the US with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track and can include animated and documentary features.
Submitted films must have been released theatrically in their respective countries between December 1, 2022, and October 31, 2023. The deadline...
Entries for the 2024 Oscar for best international feature are underway, and Screen is profiling each one on this page.
The 96th Academy Awards is set to take place on March 10, 2024 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) produced outside the US with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track and can include animated and documentary features.
Submitted films must have been released theatrically in their respective countries between December 1, 2022, and October 31, 2023. The deadline...
- 11/10/2023
- by Screen staff¬Ellie Calnan
- ScreenDaily
Screen is profiling every submission for best international feature at the 96th Academy Awards.
Entries for the 2024 Oscar for best international feature are underway, and Screen is profiling each one on this page.
The 96th Academy Awards is set to take place on March 10, 2024 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) produced outside the US with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track and can include animated and documentary features.
Submitted films must have been released theatrically in their respective countries between December 1, 2022, and October 31, 2023. The deadline...
Entries for the 2024 Oscar for best international feature are underway, and Screen is profiling each one on this page.
The 96th Academy Awards is set to take place on March 10, 2024 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) produced outside the US with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track and can include animated and documentary features.
Submitted films must have been released theatrically in their respective countries between December 1, 2022, and October 31, 2023. The deadline...
- 11/2/2023
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
TF1 Studio/ Newen Connect has picked up international sales rights to “Sarafina!,” the iconic South African musical-dance-drama that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 1992.
“Sarafina!” was the first major film to be made in South Africa after the release of Nelson Mandela from his 27-year prison term. The film tells of the strength of the young women who made their mark during South Africa’s long journey to freedom.
A restored version of the film will play in the Cannes Classics section this Sunday. It is a digitally remastered ‘producer’s cut’ which was created in partnership with Imax and includes never-seen-before footage.
The film was produced by Anant Singh through his Videovision Entertainment and directed by Darrel James Roodt from a screenplay by Mbongeni Ngema and William Nicholson. It stars Whoopi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo, Miriam Makeba, Mbongeni Ngema, John Kani and Somizi Mhlongo.
“ ‘Sarafina!’ is as entertaining and...
“Sarafina!” was the first major film to be made in South Africa after the release of Nelson Mandela from his 27-year prison term. The film tells of the strength of the young women who made their mark during South Africa’s long journey to freedom.
A restored version of the film will play in the Cannes Classics section this Sunday. It is a digitally remastered ‘producer’s cut’ which was created in partnership with Imax and includes never-seen-before footage.
The film was produced by Anant Singh through his Videovision Entertainment and directed by Darrel James Roodt from a screenplay by Mbongeni Ngema and William Nicholson. It stars Whoopi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo, Miriam Makeba, Mbongeni Ngema, John Kani and Somizi Mhlongo.
“ ‘Sarafina!’ is as entertaining and...
- 5/19/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
In keeping with tradition, the 2023 edition of Cannes Classics promises to be a feast for cineastes with tributes to global masters and restored versions of all-time classics.
Cannes Classics’ Memories of Jean-Luc Godard strand pays homage to the master who died in 2022 by screening a restored version of “Contempt” (1963); “Godard by Godard,” a self-portrait of the auteur; and the world premiere of “Phony Wars,” a trailer for a film that will never get made, described by the festival as a venture where the filmmaker “transformed his synopses into aesthetic programs.”
Liv Ullman will be present at the strand with “Liv Ullmann – A Road Less Travelled,” a documentary directed by Dheeraj Akolkar.
Japanese master Ozu Yasujiro will be paid tribute to with screenings of “Record of a Tenement Gentleman” (1947) and “The Munekata Sisters” (1950) off restored prints. “Return to Reason” – where four films of painter, photographer and director Man Ray have been...
Cannes Classics’ Memories of Jean-Luc Godard strand pays homage to the master who died in 2022 by screening a restored version of “Contempt” (1963); “Godard by Godard,” a self-portrait of the auteur; and the world premiere of “Phony Wars,” a trailer for a film that will never get made, described by the festival as a venture where the filmmaker “transformed his synopses into aesthetic programs.”
Liv Ullman will be present at the strand with “Liv Ullmann – A Road Less Travelled,” a documentary directed by Dheeraj Akolkar.
Japanese master Ozu Yasujiro will be paid tribute to with screenings of “Record of a Tenement Gentleman” (1947) and “The Munekata Sisters” (1950) off restored prints. “Return to Reason” – where four films of painter, photographer and director Man Ray have been...
- 5/5/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: South African filmmakers are shocked, angry and disappointed after the country failed to submit a film for the international feature Oscar race for the first time in 15 years, with one producer slamming the selection committee for what he says are unfounded concerns about his film’s depiction of marginalized groups, and comparing the opaque selection process to the dark days of apartheid.
Nine films were submitted to South Africa’s National Film & Video Foundation (Nfvf) for consideration for the 95th Academy Awards, which will be held March 12 at the Dolby Theatre. Ultimately, none were put forward.
In a letter sent to the snubbed filmmakers, a copy of which was obtained by Variety, the Nfvf said that the nine films were rejected by the selection committee “due to either non-compliance with the [Academy’s] selection criteria and/or a concern regarding the representation of marginalized communities.” The controversy was first reported by the Afrikaans-language website Maroela Media.
Nine films were submitted to South Africa’s National Film & Video Foundation (Nfvf) for consideration for the 95th Academy Awards, which will be held March 12 at the Dolby Theatre. Ultimately, none were put forward.
In a letter sent to the snubbed filmmakers, a copy of which was obtained by Variety, the Nfvf said that the nine films were rejected by the selection committee “due to either non-compliance with the [Academy’s] selection criteria and/or a concern regarding the representation of marginalized communities.” The controversy was first reported by the Afrikaans-language website Maroela Media.
- 12/21/2022
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
“In space, no one can hear you scream.” That tagline isn’t amazing just because it’s attached to Alien, one of the greatest movies of all time. It also captures the inherent horror of space: the vast emptiness, the utter solitude, the complete helplessness. It’s no wonder that horror has been a part of space stories since the beginning, as seen in not only the Alien franchise, but also forerunners such as It! The Terror From Beyond Space and Planet of the Vampires.
With that in mind, it shouldn’t be too much of a surprise that several horror franchises have sought to shake things up by sending their monsters to space. Yes, it might initially sound odd to launch a gothic castle dweller like Count Dracula or the campground-bound Jason Voorhees through the stars, but the premise allows moviemakers to enhance the threat posed by their monsters...
With that in mind, it shouldn’t be too much of a surprise that several horror franchises have sought to shake things up by sending their monsters to space. Yes, it might initially sound odd to launch a gothic castle dweller like Count Dracula or the campground-bound Jason Voorhees through the stars, but the premise allows moviemakers to enhance the threat posed by their monsters...
- 10/10/2022
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Sad news this Wednesday evening as TMZ reports that Coolio has passed away at the age of 59.
“The rapper who achieved enormous success in the 90s was visiting a friend late Wednesday afternoon when he passed away,” explains the site.
“Coolio’s longtime manager, Jarez, says Coolio went to the bathroom at his friend’s house, but when he didn’t come after a while … the friend kept calling for him, and eventually went in and found Coolio laying on the floor.”
Coolio, who became a household name in the 90s, appeared in a handful of horror movies including Leprechaun in the Hood (2000) and Mike Mendez’s neon-soaked classic The Convent (2000) alongside Bill Moseley. He can also be seen in the 2004 Darrell Roodt-directed Dracula 3000.
TMZ was told the friend called EMTs, who arrived and pronounced Coolio dead on the scene — “and Jarez tells us the paramedics suspect he suffered cardiac arrest.
“The rapper who achieved enormous success in the 90s was visiting a friend late Wednesday afternoon when he passed away,” explains the site.
“Coolio’s longtime manager, Jarez, says Coolio went to the bathroom at his friend’s house, but when he didn’t come after a while … the friend kept calling for him, and eventually went in and found Coolio laying on the floor.”
Coolio, who became a household name in the 90s, appeared in a handful of horror movies including Leprechaun in the Hood (2000) and Mike Mendez’s neon-soaked classic The Convent (2000) alongside Bill Moseley. He can also be seen in the 2004 Darrell Roodt-directed Dracula 3000.
TMZ was told the friend called EMTs, who arrived and pronounced Coolio dead on the scene — “and Jarez tells us the paramedics suspect he suffered cardiac arrest.
- 9/29/2022
- by Brad Miska
- bloody-disgusting.com
Gravel Road Distribution Group has acquired world sales rights with producer Rani Sitaram to “Greytown Girl,” a romantic drama set in Apartheid-era South Africa from Oscar-nominated director Darrell Roodt (“Yesterday”).
The film tells the true story of a small-town South African girl, Meena, who was born with physical limitations and abandoned as a baby. Through her personal bravery she’s able to build a better life, even as her journey of self-realization and self-love unspools against the dramatic backdrop of Apartheid South Africa’s journey toward its first democratic elections.
“What I love most about ‘Greytown Girl’ is its authenticity. You can hear the characters come to life on every page,” said Roodt. “This is because Meena’s story is a true story, and so are the characters in it. They are steeped in culture, which provides depth and richness beyond the image.”
“I chose to partner with a distributor...
The film tells the true story of a small-town South African girl, Meena, who was born with physical limitations and abandoned as a baby. Through her personal bravery she’s able to build a better life, even as her journey of self-realization and self-love unspools against the dramatic backdrop of Apartheid South Africa’s journey toward its first democratic elections.
“What I love most about ‘Greytown Girl’ is its authenticity. You can hear the characters come to life on every page,” said Roodt. “This is because Meena’s story is a true story, and so are the characters in it. They are steeped in culture, which provides depth and richness beyond the image.”
“I chose to partner with a distributor...
- 5/18/2022
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
India’s Oscar entry is screening from Jan 27, 3pm UK time.
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The upcoming screenings are listed below, with more titles set to be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
Click here to RSVP or fill out the form below
For more...
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The upcoming screenings are listed below, with more titles set to be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
Click here to RSVP or fill out the form below
For more...
- 1/25/2021
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
India’s Oscar entry is screening from Jan 27, 3pm UK time.
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The upcoming screenings are listed below, with more titles set to be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
Click here to RSVP or fill out the form below
For more...
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The upcoming screenings are listed below, with more titles set to be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
Click here to RSVP or fill out the form below
For more...
- 1/24/2021
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Nigeria’s Oscar entry is screening from Jan 22, 3pm UK time.
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The first screenings in the programme are the Oscar entries for India (Jallikattu); Latvia (Blizzard Of Souls); Nigeria (The Milkmaid); and South Africa (Toorbos). More titles will be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
Screen International has partnered with film market platform Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The first screenings in the programme are the Oscar entries for India (Jallikattu); Latvia (Blizzard Of Souls); Nigeria (The Milkmaid); and South Africa (Toorbos). More titles will be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available for 24 hours after the start time.
- 1/20/2021
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
The first titles are the Oscar entries for India, Latvia, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Screen International has partnered with film market Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The first screenings in the programme are the Oscar entries for India (Jallikattu); Latvia (Blizzard Of Souls); Nigeria (The Milkmaid); and South Africa (Toorbos). More titles will be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available...
Screen International has partnered with film market Archipel Market on an exclusive series of screenings focused on the international feature awards race.
This initiative is designed to enable each country to organise an event around their submission.
The first screenings in the programme are the Oscar entries for India (Jallikattu); Latvia (Blizzard Of Souls); Nigeria (The Milkmaid); and South Africa (Toorbos). More titles will be added during this year’s awards season.
The screenings are open to awards voters and industry professionals and will be available...
- 1/12/2021
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Bookmark this page for all the latest international feature submissions.
Submissions for the best international feature film award at the 2021 Academy Awards have started to come in, and Screen is keeping a running list of each film below.
Scroll down for the full list
The 93rd Academy Awards is set to take place on April 25, 2021. It was originally set to be held on February 28, before both the ceremony and eligibility period were postponed for two months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Submitted films must have been released in their respective countries between the expanded dates of October 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. (Last year it was October-September.
Submissions for the best international feature film award at the 2021 Academy Awards have started to come in, and Screen is keeping a running list of each film below.
Scroll down for the full list
The 93rd Academy Awards is set to take place on April 25, 2021. It was originally set to be held on February 28, before both the ceremony and eligibility period were postponed for two months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Submitted films must have been released in their respective countries between the expanded dates of October 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. (Last year it was October-September.
- 11/17/2020
- by Ben Dalton¬Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Mandisa Ralane ran the event from 2007 to 2012.
Encounters South African International Documentary Festival has appointmented Mandisa Ralane as festival director for its 21st edition.
Ralane returns to the festival having previously been director from 2007 to 2012. During that time she acted as an international ambassador for the South African film industry. This included setting up partnerships with Sichuan TV Festival in China; with the French Embassy in South Africa, where she coordinated the first Afriadoc Sa documentary writing residency; and with Al Jazeera English, in which 20 African documentaries were pitched to the global broadcaster.
She has recently been in management in the academic and government sector.
Encounters South African International Documentary Festival has appointmented Mandisa Ralane as festival director for its 21st edition.
Ralane returns to the festival having previously been director from 2007 to 2012. During that time she acted as an international ambassador for the South African film industry. This included setting up partnerships with Sichuan TV Festival in China; with the French Embassy in South Africa, where she coordinated the first Afriadoc Sa documentary writing residency; and with Al Jazeera English, in which 20 African documentaries were pitched to the global broadcaster.
She has recently been in management in the academic and government sector.
- 4/4/2019
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Jennifer Hills is back! Forty years after 1978’s I Spit On Your Grave shocked the world with its story of a beautiful career woman assaulted and left for dead, and her notorious revenge on those responsible, cinema’s most lethal lady vengeance returns in the most anticipated sequel of all time. Reuniting star Camille Keaton and original director Meir Zarchi, I Spit On Your Grave: Deja Vu sends now successful writer Jennifer Hills hurtling back to where it all began – to face the wrath of the families of those she murdered. Kidnapped along with her daughter Christy ( Jamie Bernadette), it’s a tense game of hunt – or be hunted – against a ruthless gang of degenerates overseen by a violently unhinged matriarch Becky, (Maria Olsen).
Meir Zarchi delivers the next explosive saga in the most controversial tale of an eye-for-an-eye ever committed to celluloid. Some grudges refuse to be buried… I Spit On Your Grave: Deja Vu...
Meir Zarchi delivers the next explosive saga in the most controversial tale of an eye-for-an-eye ever committed to celluloid. Some grudges refuse to be buried… I Spit On Your Grave: Deja Vu...
- 3/7/2019
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Screen’s regularly updated list of foreign language Oscar submissions.
Nominations for the 91st Academy Awards are not until Tuesday January 22, but the first submissions for best foreign-language film are now being announced.
Last year saw a record 92 submissions for the award, which were narrowed down to a shortlist of nine. This was cut to five nominees, with Sebastián Lelio’s transgender drama A Fantastic Woman ultimately taking home the gold statue.
Screen’s interview with Mark Johnson, chair of the Academy’s foreign-language film committee, explains the shortlisting process from submission to voting.
Submitted films must be released theatrically...
Nominations for the 91st Academy Awards are not until Tuesday January 22, but the first submissions for best foreign-language film are now being announced.
Last year saw a record 92 submissions for the award, which were narrowed down to a shortlist of nine. This was cut to five nominees, with Sebastián Lelio’s transgender drama A Fantastic Woman ultimately taking home the gold statue.
Screen’s interview with Mark Johnson, chair of the Academy’s foreign-language film committee, explains the shortlisting process from submission to voting.
Submitted films must be released theatrically...
- 9/24/2018
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Screen’s regularly updated list of foreign language Oscar submissions.
Nominations for the 91st Academy Awards are not until Tuesday January 22, but the first submissions for best foreign-language film are now being announced.
Last year saw a record 92 submissions for the award, which were narrowed down to a shortlist of nine. This was cut to five nominees, with Sebastián Lelio’s transgender drama A Fantastic Woman ultimately taking home the gold statue.
Screen’s interview with Mark Johnson, chair of the Academy’s foreign-language film committee, explains the shortlisting process from submission to voting.
Submitted films must be released theatrically...
Nominations for the 91st Academy Awards are not until Tuesday January 22, but the first submissions for best foreign-language film are now being announced.
Last year saw a record 92 submissions for the award, which were narrowed down to a shortlist of nine. This was cut to five nominees, with Sebastián Lelio’s transgender drama A Fantastic Woman ultimately taking home the gold statue.
Screen’s interview with Mark Johnson, chair of the Academy’s foreign-language film committee, explains the shortlisting process from submission to voting.
Submitted films must be released theatrically...
- 9/24/2018
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Warning signs exist for a reason, friends! The giant crocodile is back in what is the sixth installment in the Lake Placid franchise and as usual, it's looking for snacks. Starring Katherine Barrell (Wynonna Earp), Tim Rozon (Wynonna Earp), Joe Pantoliano (The Matrix), and Sai Bennett, Lake Placid: Legacy will be released on DVD and digital on September 4th from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment:
Press Release: Culver City, Calif. – Lake Placid: Legacy, the sixth installment of the wildly popular franchise, finds a team of young explorers who set out to reveal the secrets of an abandoned scientific facility. They discover its horrific legacy: the island is home to a deadly predator eager to feast on those who ignore the warnings. However, before they can turn back, they are dragged into a battle for their lives -- and will need to work together if they hope to survive. Directed by...
Press Release: Culver City, Calif. – Lake Placid: Legacy, the sixth installment of the wildly popular franchise, finds a team of young explorers who set out to reveal the secrets of an abandoned scientific facility. They discover its horrific legacy: the island is home to a deadly predator eager to feast on those who ignore the warnings. However, before they can turn back, they are dragged into a battle for their lives -- and will need to work together if they hope to survive. Directed by...
- 7/31/2018
- by Tamika Jones
- DailyDead
It causes mysterious illnesses, haunts children’s nightmares, and provides regular fodder for South African tabloid scribes. (Typical headline: “Tokoloshe Made Me A Sex Slave.”) Now the diminutive, mischievous, sinister spirit known as the tokoloshe is making the leap from Zulu myth to the big screen in director Jerome Pikwane’s feature debut, which opens the Durban Int’l. Film Festival July 19.
“The Tokoloshe” is a psychological thriller about a destitute hospital cleaner, Busi (Petronella Tshuma), who’s forced to confront the demons of her past to try to save a child’s life. Setting it against the harrowing backdrop of child abuse and sexual violence in South Africa, Pikwane – who co-wrote the script with novelist Richard Kunzmann – offers a film that, as with so many of the best horror flicks, is equal parts scarer and social commentary.
“Originally, we were going to do a straight out horror film—you know,...
“The Tokoloshe” is a psychological thriller about a destitute hospital cleaner, Busi (Petronella Tshuma), who’s forced to confront the demons of her past to try to save a child’s life. Setting it against the harrowing backdrop of child abuse and sexual violence in South Africa, Pikwane – who co-wrote the script with novelist Richard Kunzmann – offers a film that, as with so many of the best horror flicks, is equal parts scarer and social commentary.
“Originally, we were going to do a straight out horror film—you know,...
- 7/18/2018
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
'Yesterday' movie: Leleti Khumalo and Lihle Mvelase. 'Yesterday' movie review: Fantastic central performance in South African AIDS drama To date, nowhere has the AIDS pandemic been felt more strongly than in Sub-Saharan Africa, home to approximately 10 percent of the world's population and two-thirds of the planet's 30-35 million AIDS cases. In the past thirty years, it is estimated that more than 20 million Sub-Saharan Africans have died from complications of the disease.* Even today, drug cocktails that are relatively accessible in other parts of the globe are still beyond the means of the vast majority of Africans. Writer-director Darrell Roodt's South African drama Yesterday is set in this catastrophic scenario. The film depicts the effects of AIDS in the life of a young Zulu woman who contracts HIV from her husband. Although Roodt's narrative maintains its focus on the plight of one particular individual, the (for non-Zulus) quirkily named Yesterday represents millions of other women,...
- 6/1/2015
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
Oscar 2015 winners (photo: Chris Pratt during Oscar 2015 rehearsals) The complete list of Oscar 2015 winners and nominees can be found below. See also: Oscar 2015 presenters and performers. Now, a little Oscar 2015 trivia. If you know a bit about the history of the Academy Awards, you'll have noticed several little curiosities about this year's nominations. For instance, there are quite a few first-time nominees in the acting and directing categories. In fact, nine of the nominated actors and three of the nominated directors are Oscar newcomers. Here's the list in the acting categories: Eddie Redmayne. Michael Keaton. Steve Carell. Benedict Cumberbatch. Felicity Jones. Rosamund Pike. J.K. Simmons. Emma Stone. Patricia Arquette. The three directors are: Morten Tyldum. Richard Linklater. Wes Anderson. Oscar 2015 comebacks Oscar 2015 also marks the Academy Awards' "comeback" of several performers and directors last nominated years ago. Marion Cotillard and Reese Witherspoon won Best Actress Oscars for, respectively, Olivier Dahan...
- 2/22/2015
- by Steve Montgomery
- Alt Film Guide
From D Films, Sneak Peek director Darrell Roodt's dramatic feature "Winnie", coming to home entertainment February 4, 2014, starring Jennifer Hudson, Terrence Howard, Elias Koteas and Wendy Crewson:
"...this intimate, in-depth and unbiased film takes the audience on a remarkable journey of understanding 'Winnie Mandela', exploring both her personal and political life.
"Through her fierce determination and dauntless courage, Winnie Mandela survived her husband's imprisonment, continuous harassment by the security police, banishment to a small 'Free State' town, betrayal by friends and allies, and more than a year in solitary confinement - all the while keeping the name of 'Nelson Mandela' alive.
"A sensitive and balanced portrayal, the film nevertheless thoroughly investigates and honestly examines the controversies that dogged Winnie Mandela in recent years..."
Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "Winnie"...
"...this intimate, in-depth and unbiased film takes the audience on a remarkable journey of understanding 'Winnie Mandela', exploring both her personal and political life.
"Through her fierce determination and dauntless courage, Winnie Mandela survived her husband's imprisonment, continuous harassment by the security police, banishment to a small 'Free State' town, betrayal by friends and allies, and more than a year in solitary confinement - all the while keeping the name of 'Nelson Mandela' alive.
"A sensitive and balanced portrayal, the film nevertheless thoroughly investigates and honestly examines the controversies that dogged Winnie Mandela in recent years..."
Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "Winnie"...
- 1/23/2014
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Marlon Brando in ‘A Dry White Season,’ James Earl Jones in ‘Cry the Beloved Country’: Apartheid movies (photo: Marlon Brando in ‘A Dry White Season’) (See previous post: “Nelson Mandela: Sidney Poitier and ‘Malcolm X’ Cameo Apperance.”) Besides the Nelson Mandela movies discussed in the previous two posts, South Africa’s apartheid has been portrayed in a number of films in the last few decades. Among the most notable ones are the following: Zoltan Korda’s Cry the Beloved Country (1951). Based on Alan Paton’s novel, this British-made film features Canada Lee and Charles Carson as two men struggling to deal with the disastrous consequences of apartheid. Ralph Nelson’s The Wilby Conspiracy (1975). Sidney Poitier and Michael Caine star as, respectively, an anti-apartheid South African activist and a British engineer on the run from South Africa’s secret police, headed by racist Nicol Williamson. Chris Menges’ A World Apart...
- 12/7/2013
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
Nelson Mandela on film and TV: From Sidney Poitier to Terrence Howard (photo: Sidney Poitier as Nelson Mandela in ‘Mandela and de Klerk’) (See previous post: "Nelson Mandela Movies: ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,’ ‘Invictus.’") As found on the IMDb, here are a handful of other narrative big-screen films featuring Nelson Mandela: Darrell Roodt’s Winnie Mandela (2011), with Jennifer Hudson in the title role and Terrence Howard as Nelson Mandela. Pete Travis’ Endgame (2009), with Clarke Peters’ Mandela as less a martyred saint than a skillful realpolitik negotiator. This political drama also features Chiwetel Ejiofor, William Hurt, Jonny Lee Miller, Mark Strong, and Derek Jacobi. Zola Maseko’s 1950s-set Drum (2004), in which Mandela is played — for a change — by a South African actor, Lindani Nkosi. As reported by Peter Bradshaw in The Guardian, British filmmaker Peter Kosminsky (White Oleander, Wuthering Heights) "got into hot water a couple of years ago...
- 12/7/2013
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
An unexpected choice; but glad to see the man working. Vondie Curtis-Hall will replace South African director Darrell Roodt (Winnie) to helm Four Stars International's Paul Robeson biopic, which British actor David Harewood, was attached to star in. Sydney Tamiia Poitier (daughter of Sidney Poitier) was also attached to the project, to play Paul Robeson’s wife, Eslanda ("Essie") Goode Robeson. I say both actor were attached because, according to a new Variety report, the producers have opted to read other actors for the the lead role specifically - meaning, Harewood may actually no longer be involved. The project will be...
- 12/6/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
With "Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom" now playing in theaters, here's a reminder that there was another person standing by Nelson Mandela's side in the struggle to rid South Africa of Apartheid, and she too has her own movie. "Winnie Mandela" is on its way to home video and we've got a few copies for some lucky readers along with one big grand prize. Directed by Darrell J. Roodt ("Sarafina," "Cry The Beloved Country"), the film stars singer/actress Jennifer Hudson in the title role, the will the tell the story of a young Winnie, who finds love with Nelson Mandela (played by Terrence Howard) and continues his message of protest and resistance against a brutal Apartheid government, when Nelson gets imprisoned. For those looking to fill in the corners of the cinematic story in 'Long Walk To Freedom,' this might help. And we've got a poster signed...
- 12/2/2013
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
Upon completion of my first viewing of Darrell Roodt’s Winnie Mandela, I couldn’t help but struggle a little bit. Who exactly is the film for? Surely it can’t be for history buffs – the events of the famous anti-apartheid activist’s life have been heavily glorified here. It makes for a better film, yes, but is a bit bothersome when paralleled with reality. Given its origin from the biography Winnie Mandela: A Life, I imagine anybody serious about gaining an understanding of what Winnie’s actual struggles were like would simply take that work for a spin instead.
Alright, that’s fine then – nobody said films based on reality have to reflect it entirely. As a reviewer, I’m more than okay with sacrifices being made for the sake of telling a great story, or developing compelling characters. Surely the desire to craft a likable and relatable...
Alright, that’s fine then – nobody said films based on reality have to reflect it entirely. As a reviewer, I’m more than okay with sacrifices being made for the sake of telling a great story, or developing compelling characters. Surely the desire to craft a likable and relatable...
- 9/9/2013
- by Griffin Vacheron
- We Got This Covered
Winnie Mandela
Written by Darrell Roodt and Andre Pieterse
Directed by Darrell Roodt
Canada/South Africa, 2011
Darrell Roodt’s film Winnie Mandela is an oddity. It’s almost trying to be two movies squeezed into the running time of one: first, a typical biography of the “Mother of the Nation” of South Africa; later, a dark and ambiguous look at some of the horrible things that Winnie Mandela was accused of doing while her husband Nelson served a 27-year prison sentence. Both movies have good intentions but both are also heavily flawed, with awkward tonal shifts and misuse of fine actors. There will be better movies this fall, and worse ones, but no movie this season will be quite so strange.
Roodt (a South African director responsible for the well-received Sarafina! and the vile Dangerous Ground) recruited Academy-recognized talent for this joint Canadian/South African production: Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson...
Written by Darrell Roodt and Andre Pieterse
Directed by Darrell Roodt
Canada/South Africa, 2011
Darrell Roodt’s film Winnie Mandela is an oddity. It’s almost trying to be two movies squeezed into the running time of one: first, a typical biography of the “Mother of the Nation” of South Africa; later, a dark and ambiguous look at some of the horrible things that Winnie Mandela was accused of doing while her husband Nelson served a 27-year prison sentence. Both movies have good intentions but both are also heavily flawed, with awkward tonal shifts and misuse of fine actors. There will be better movies this fall, and worse ones, but no movie this season will be quite so strange.
Roodt (a South African director responsible for the well-received Sarafina! and the vile Dangerous Ground) recruited Academy-recognized talent for this joint Canadian/South African production: Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson...
- 9/7/2013
- by Mark Young
- SoundOnSight
If only for its refusal to sand down the rough edges of its protagonist’s life, “Winnie Mandela” stands out in a field of movies that offer up sanitized, classroom-ready biographies of famous people. But this is a movie that’s destined to be remembered for proving that Jennifer Hudson’s “Dreamgirls” performance was no fluke; here, she hits a vast array of notes even though she doesn’t get to sing until the final credits. While “Winnie Mandela” mostly connects its plot dots in a purely predictable biopic fashion, writer-director Darrell Roodt (co-scripting with Andre Pieterse, working from the biography by Anne Marie.
- 9/6/2013
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
New Release
Winnie Mandela
R, 1 Hr., 47 Mins.
Darrell J. Roodt’s bland biopic of the South African antiapartheid activist feels like the Hallmark Hall of Fame version of history. Jennifer Hudson brings some fire to the controversial crusader and Terrence Howard is very good as her husband, Nelson Mandela. But this well-intentioned film is an oversimplified mess. C —Chris Nashawaty
New Release
99% — The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative FIlm
Not Rated, 1 Hr., 37 Mins.
The Occupy Wall Street movement deserves enormous credit for locking the “meme” of the 99 percent into the American psyche. But that doesn’t make this day-to-day documentary about...
Winnie Mandela
R, 1 Hr., 47 Mins.
Darrell J. Roodt’s bland biopic of the South African antiapartheid activist feels like the Hallmark Hall of Fame version of history. Jennifer Hudson brings some fire to the controversial crusader and Terrence Howard is very good as her husband, Nelson Mandela. But this well-intentioned film is an oversimplified mess. C —Chris Nashawaty
New Release
99% — The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative FIlm
Not Rated, 1 Hr., 37 Mins.
The Occupy Wall Street movement deserves enormous credit for locking the “meme” of the 99 percent into the American psyche. But that doesn’t make this day-to-day documentary about...
- 9/4/2013
- by Deven Persaud
- EW - Inside Movies
Title: Winnie Mandela (originally called Winnie) Director: Darrell Roodt Starring: Jennifer Hudson, Terrence Howard, Elias Koteas, Wendy Crewson, Angelique Pretorius “Winnie Mandela,” originally called “Winnie” during its indie circuit run, is, of course, a film that relates the story of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela (Jennifer Hudson), the first wife of Nelson Mandela (Terrence Howard). The film starts out a little glowing, but soon delves head-first into the life of Winnie. If you don’t know that much about Winnie’s life, then this film might be a great insight into her life. But, if you do know a lot about the real life Madikizela-Mandela, then you might think this film is a little lacking, [ Read More ]
The post Winnie Mandela Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post Winnie Mandela Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 8/30/2013
- by monique
- ShockYa
Contrary to what some filmmakers would like you to believe, life in Africa is not all wilderness, famine, war, disease, and hungry animals. That's why I cringe whenever I hear of projects like director Darrell Roodt's found-footage South Africa-set film, Safari. The tagline for Safari is "This Is Africa." [Insert side-eye Here] As an African himself, who has done film and TV which better represent South African life specifically (Sarafina, Cry, The Beloved Country, Room 9), I'm surprised at Roodt for this one. The main problem I have with this project is that it reinforces a perception that far too many people have of what Africa is-- a tourist attraction full of wild animals...
- 8/22/2013
- by Emmanuel Akitobi
- ShadowAndAct
Oh look, another biopic. If you’ve heard any buzz about a Nelson Mandela-centric movie this year, it was probably about Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, the Idris Elba and Naomie Harris vehicle set to hit theaters this fall. But after getting negative buzz at Tiff all the way back in 2011 and finally securing a distributor this spring, it looks like Winnie Mandela will also see the light of day in September. Directed by Darrell J. Roodt (Sarafina; Cry, The Beloved Country), the biopic follows the story of the South African freedom fighter (Terrence Howard) from the perspective of his wife, Winnie (Jennifer Hudson), as she campaigns for his release from jail and in the fight against apartheid. And in the fashion of some, if not a lot of biopics, it seems like a safe bet for all involved. As soon as the trailer starts and you get sucker-punched by the emotional soundtrack, it...
- 8/7/2013
- by Samantha Wilson
- FilmSchoolRejects.com
After debuting the first trailer last fall, the biographical drama Winne Mandela (formerly known as Winnie) is coming to theaters this fall, with hope for some awards season attention. This makes the second film focusing on the lives of the Mandela family along with Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. However, as the title indicates, this film focuses more on Nelson Mandela's wife as she campaigns for his release from prison and helps fight against apartheid. Jennifer Hudson plays Winnie while Terrence Howard plays Nelson. The film feels like it's built on a familiar template, but maybe the performances will make it shine. Here's the new trailer for Darrell Roodt's Winnie Mandela from Blackfilm (via The Playlist): Focus ranges from her image as a mother, wife and steadfast supporter of her husband, to campaigning for his release from jail and fight against apartheid. The story in it focuses...
- 8/6/2013
- by Ethan Anderton
- firstshowing.net
Premiering at Tiff way back in 2011 to largely negative reviews, and failing to find a distributor until this past spring, the signs aren't so good for "Winnie Mandela" (formerly known as "Winnie"), the biopic of the wife of the famed South Africa freedom fighter. But perhaps it serves as a curious second half to a double bill for anyone checking out the Idris Elba and Naomi Harris-starring "Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom" this fall. Anyway, in this new trailer for the Darrell J. Roodt ("Sarafina," "Cry The Beloved Country") directed film, you can see how Terrence Howard and Jennifer Hudson stack up as Nelson and Winnie, in the movie that views the struggle to end apartheid from the perspective of the woman behind the man. It all looks fairly safe and template driven, with all the right notes of soaring emotion and important drama being hit, but it never quite seems compelling.
- 8/6/2013
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
'Kick-ass' authorised biography starring Idris Elba expected to win plaudits, while troubled Winnie stumbles in its wake
As millions pray for Nelson Mandela, hospitalised for a week with a recurring lung infection, the race is under way to provide the definitive film version of his extraordinary life and times.
Leading the charge is a big-budget adaptation of Mandela's bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, starring Idris Elba, best known for The Wire and Luther, and Naomie Harris, recently seen in Skyfall.
Later this year it could go head-to-head at the box office with Winnie, featuring Jennifer Hudson as Mandela's wife, the struggle heroine Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, with Terrence Howard as South Africa's first black president.
The casting of foreigners has been controversial in South Africa and accents will be under close scrutiny in the latest films, which represent a transatlantic duel between Britons Elba and Harris and Americans Hudson and Howard.
As millions pray for Nelson Mandela, hospitalised for a week with a recurring lung infection, the race is under way to provide the definitive film version of his extraordinary life and times.
Leading the charge is a big-budget adaptation of Mandela's bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, starring Idris Elba, best known for The Wire and Luther, and Naomie Harris, recently seen in Skyfall.
Later this year it could go head-to-head at the box office with Winnie, featuring Jennifer Hudson as Mandela's wife, the struggle heroine Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, with Terrence Howard as South Africa's first black president.
The casting of foreigners has been controversial in South Africa and accents will be under close scrutiny in the latest films, which represent a transatlantic duel between Britons Elba and Harris and Americans Hudson and Howard.
- 6/14/2013
- by David Smith
- The Guardian - Film News
An unexpected choice; her name wouldn't have been the first one to come to mind for the role. Sydney Tamiia Poitier (daughter of Sidney Poitier) has been tapped to play Paul Robeson’s wife, Eslanda ("Essie") Goode Robeson, opposite former co-star of Showtime's hit drama series Homeland, British actor David Harewood, who's attached to star in the biopic. South African director Darrell Roodt (Winnie) is set to helm what is shaping up to be a multi-continental production, both in front of and behind the camera. The project comes from Four Stars International, and will be produced by Greg Carter and executive produced...
- 6/12/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
The director of Sydney film festival describes the magic of film festivals and the communal discovery of great new works
My first experience of a film festival was through a catalogue. I was about 16 at the time, and in my weekly forays into Durban's city centre I would pick up a copy of the New Musical Express, and the occasional football or cricket magazine. One day, I came upon the catalogue for the Durban International Film Festival. Though I was too young to attend, I bought it, and pored over it for weeks, noting all the films I wished I could see – all of them really.
Around the same time, a friend had somehow managed to get his hands on a UK-distributed VHS tape of Takeshi Kitano's Sonatine. I adored everything about the film: the extreme violence, the childish games on the beach, the black suits, the dreaminess of it.
My first experience of a film festival was through a catalogue. I was about 16 at the time, and in my weekly forays into Durban's city centre I would pick up a copy of the New Musical Express, and the occasional football or cricket magazine. One day, I came upon the catalogue for the Durban International Film Festival. Though I was too young to attend, I bought it, and pored over it for weeks, noting all the films I wished I could see – all of them really.
Around the same time, a friend had somehow managed to get his hands on a UK-distributed VHS tape of Takeshi Kitano's Sonatine. I adored everything about the film: the extreme violence, the childish games on the beach, the black suits, the dreaminess of it.
- 6/7/2013
- The Guardian - Film News
Image Entertainment announced today its acquisition of domestic distribution rights to Jennifer Hudson-starrer "Winnie Mandela", the biopic focusing on the wife of South African President Nelson Mandela that debuted at the Toronto Film Festival last fall after much delay. Based on the book by Anne Marie du Preez Bezdrob, the film adaptation was written and directed by Darrell Roodt ("Yesterday"). Terrence Howard plays Mr. Mandela, and the film is scheduled for a fall 2013 release. Hudson has garnered only a handful of unenviable roles since her Oscar win for "Dreamgirls" in 2006, most recently on the axed TV series, "Smash." "Winnie Mandela" could mark a return to winning ways for the former American Idol, who also lends her voice to a song by Diane Warren for the film. Though a tepid response out of Toronto (Winnie Mandela herself has also spoken out against it).
- 5/16/2013
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
Image Entertainment has picked up all Us rights to "Winnie Mandela," starring Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson as Nelson Mandela's long-time partner. The film, which is written and directed by Darrell J. Roodt from Anne Marie de Preez Bezdrob's biography, is slated for a fall 2013 release, which puts it up against the Justin Chadwick/William Nicholson biopic "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," starring Idris Elba in the title role and "Skyfall" star Naomie Harris as Winnie (November 29, limited). The Weinsteins are expected to preview footage for the press on May 17 in Cannes. "Winnie Mandela" also stars Terrence Howard as the former South-African president and anti-apartheid revolutionary. Here's a more detailed synopsis:"Winnie Mandela" explores the personal and political life of the wife of renowned activist and former South African President, Nelson Mandela (Terrence Howard). The film tells the compelling story of one woman’s journey as she fights for the freedom of the.
- 5/16/2013
- by Beth Hanna
- Thompson on Hollywood
Image Entertainment has acquired all U.S. rights to Winnie Mandela at the 2013 Cannes International Film Festival. Budgeted at $15 million, the film is an adaptation of Anné Mariè du Preez Bezdrob.s biography "Winnie Mandela: A Life" and is written and directed by Darrell J. Roodt. Winnie Mandela stars Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson ( Dreamgirls , Sex in the City ) and Academy Award nominee Terrence Howard ( Hustle & Flow , Red Tails , Iron Man ) and will be released in theaters fall 2013. The film is presented by Td Jakes, and produced by André Pieterse (Ironwood Films) and Michael Mosca (Equinoxe Films). Bill Bromiley, Chief Acquisitions Officer for Image Entertainment, made today.s announcement. .Both Jennifer Hudson (as Winnie) and Terrence Howard...
- 5/16/2013
- Comingsoon.net
Let's celebrate Woman's Day on AfricaFilms.tv, discover a selection of titles directed by or celegrating the African Woman...
Films
Moolaade by Ousmane Sembène 2004 – Senegal
Sembène Ousmane’s last film is an award-winning tribute to non-conformism, women and a stance against female genital mutilation.
Bal Poussiere by Henri Duparc 1988 – Ivory Coast
Half-God has five wives. He decides to add a sixth one: one for each day of the week, while Sundays are strictly reserved for the best wife of the week.
Saint-louis Blues by Dyana Gaye 2008 -Senegal
En route to Saint Louis from Dakar in the company of one taxidriver, seven passengers, and nineteen musicians.
Long Street by Revel Fox 2010 - South Africa
An intimately rendered portrait of the fragile relationship between recovering drug addict Sia and her mother Maria
Zimbabwe by Darrell James Roodt 2008 - South Africa
The courageous journey of a 19-years old girl trying to find a better life through emigration. Selected in more than 30 festivals worldwide.
Visa/Vie by Elan Gamaker 2010 - South Africa
Anna, a French emigré, is caught working illegally in a Cape Town restaurant. She has 48 hours to find a husband to avoid having to leave the country...
Adera by Nega Tariku 2010 – Ethiopia
A story of emigration and adoption. Box office champion in Addis Abeba in 2009.
Series
The Mating Game by Alex Yazbek 2010 - South Africa
Men come in all shapes and sizes. Some bring us love. Some bring us money. And some bring us sex. Seldom do we get all three.
Secrets by Sitsofe Akoto & Juliet Asante 2008 – Ghana
At Saints folks from all walks of life cross paths. What unites them is that they all have something to hide.
Games People Play by Jake Aernan 2005 – Ghana
One restaurant, four adult daughters, two ex-husbands. No wonder Ma Getty needs a young lover by her side.
Documentary
Women Bear Africa On Their Back by Idrissa Diabate 2009 - Ivory Coast
The daily life of 5 courageous African Women. A multi-awarded documentary by one of the leading masters of the genre on the continent.
Puberty Rites by Richard Prempeh 2010 - Ghana
The passage from childhood to womanhood is not easy, but the Dipo rite makes for a smoother transition.
Surfing Soweto by Sara Blecher 2010 - South Africa
With nothing to lose, taking drugs and surfing trains might be less frightening for Prince, Lefa and Mzembe than growing up in a society that has nothing else to offer.
Lome Vivina by Marie-Samantha Salvy 2011 – Togo
The puzzling phenomenon of Sunday crowd jogging in Lome, Togo. A still-doccie that became a festival must.
Films
Moolaade by Ousmane Sembène 2004 – Senegal
Sembène Ousmane’s last film is an award-winning tribute to non-conformism, women and a stance against female genital mutilation.
Bal Poussiere by Henri Duparc 1988 – Ivory Coast
Half-God has five wives. He decides to add a sixth one: one for each day of the week, while Sundays are strictly reserved for the best wife of the week.
Saint-louis Blues by Dyana Gaye 2008 -Senegal
En route to Saint Louis from Dakar in the company of one taxidriver, seven passengers, and nineteen musicians.
Long Street by Revel Fox 2010 - South Africa
An intimately rendered portrait of the fragile relationship between recovering drug addict Sia and her mother Maria
Zimbabwe by Darrell James Roodt 2008 - South Africa
The courageous journey of a 19-years old girl trying to find a better life through emigration. Selected in more than 30 festivals worldwide.
Visa/Vie by Elan Gamaker 2010 - South Africa
Anna, a French emigré, is caught working illegally in a Cape Town restaurant. She has 48 hours to find a husband to avoid having to leave the country...
Adera by Nega Tariku 2010 – Ethiopia
A story of emigration and adoption. Box office champion in Addis Abeba in 2009.
Series
The Mating Game by Alex Yazbek 2010 - South Africa
Men come in all shapes and sizes. Some bring us love. Some bring us money. And some bring us sex. Seldom do we get all three.
Secrets by Sitsofe Akoto & Juliet Asante 2008 – Ghana
At Saints folks from all walks of life cross paths. What unites them is that they all have something to hide.
Games People Play by Jake Aernan 2005 – Ghana
One restaurant, four adult daughters, two ex-husbands. No wonder Ma Getty needs a young lover by her side.
Documentary
Women Bear Africa On Their Back by Idrissa Diabate 2009 - Ivory Coast
The daily life of 5 courageous African Women. A multi-awarded documentary by one of the leading masters of the genre on the continent.
Puberty Rites by Richard Prempeh 2010 - Ghana
The passage from childhood to womanhood is not easy, but the Dipo rite makes for a smoother transition.
Surfing Soweto by Sara Blecher 2010 - South Africa
With nothing to lose, taking drugs and surfing trains might be less frightening for Prince, Lefa and Mzembe than growing up in a society that has nothing else to offer.
Lome Vivina by Marie-Samantha Salvy 2011 – Togo
The puzzling phenomenon of Sunday crowd jogging in Lome, Togo. A still-doccie that became a festival must.
- 3/8/2013
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Homeland alum David Harewood is reuniting with the Showtime series’ executive producers Howard Gordon, Alex Gansa and Alex Cary. Harewood has become the first actor cast in the CBS drama pilot Anatomy Of Violence, written and executive produced by Gordon, Gansa and Cary and directed by Mark Pellington. Inspired by the non-fiction book The Anatomy Of Violence: The Biological Roots Of Crime by Adrian Raine, the 20th TV-produced drama centers on Raines, a criminal psychologist with an expertise in sociopaths who partners with a young female detective with whom he shares a conflicted past. Harewood will play Alejo, Special Agent in Charge, celebrated profiler and Raines’ boss and friend. Harewood, repped by Apa, Conway Van Gelder Grant and Authentic, just finished a two-season stint on Emmy-winning Homeland as CIA bigwig David Estes. He most recently filmed a supporting role in Paul Haggis’ The Third Person and is attached to play...
- 2/21/2013
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
South African filmmaker Darrell Roodt ("Sarafina," "Cry the Beloved Country") has signed on to helm the indie biopic "Robeson" for Four Stars International and Nexus Film.
"Homeland" star David Harewood is already attached to play singer and actor Paul Robeson.
Robeson's political activism brought him to the attention of Senator Joseph McCarthy, leading to the revocation of his passport for eight years despite his contributions as an entertainer to the Allied forces in WWII.
Louis Gossett Jr. is also onboard to play W.E.B. Dubois. Filming kicks off this Summer.
Source: Variety...
"Homeland" star David Harewood is already attached to play singer and actor Paul Robeson.
Robeson's political activism brought him to the attention of Senator Joseph McCarthy, leading to the revocation of his passport for eight years despite his contributions as an entertainer to the Allied forces in WWII.
Louis Gossett Jr. is also onboard to play W.E.B. Dubois. Filming kicks off this Summer.
Source: Variety...
- 2/14/2013
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Interesting choice, and not one I was expecting at all. South African director Darrell Roodt has been hired to helm the Paul Robeson biopic that co-star of Showtime's hit drama series Homeland, David Harewood, has signed up to star in. In what is shaping up to be a multi-continental production, both in front of and behind the camera, the project comes from Four Stars International, and will be produced by Greg Carter and executive produced by Richard Akel, with a script penned by Akel and Terry Bisson, with promises of a film that's worthy of its subject. Also of note, we now know what role Louis Gossett Jr., who has also long been attached, will play...
- 2/12/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Variety has some news on the Paul Robeson biographical film staring Homeland's David Harewood. South African director Darrell Roodt has agreed to direct the film for Four Star International and Greg Carter of Nexus films. Some of his works include Winnie and Cry, The Beloved Country. Paul Robeson was a singer and actor "whose political activism brought him to the attention of Sen. Joseph McCarthy, leading to the revocation of his passport for eight years despite his contributions as...
- 2/12/2013
- by Jesse Giroux
- JoBlo.com
Darrell Roodt's latest work (not Winnie), titled Umfaan (or Little One), was South Africa's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar category. Unfortunately, it didn't make the final nominations list of 5. But the film will be released theatrically in South Africa on April 26 (no word on whether it'll travel). It also has a new trailer and an official poster, both embedded below. Recapping... the film tells the story of a child rape victim left for dead in a township near Johannesburg, and is eventually found and rescued by an older woman, who becomes very close to the little girl, and decides to launch her own...
- 2/4/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Trailer For Darrell Roodt's 'Little One' - South Africa's Entry For Best Foreign Language Film Oscar
As I announced just over a month ago, Darrell Roodt's latest work (not Winnie), titled Umfaan (or Little One), is South Africa's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar category. At the time of that late September post, I didn't have a lot of info on the film; it didn't even have an IMDb listing, nor was it listed on Roodt's IMDb or IMDBPro pages. Recapping what I did find... the film tells the story of a child rape victim left for dead in a township near Johannesburg, and is eventually found and rescued by an older woman, who becomes very close to the little girl, and decides to launch her own investigation...
- 11/1/2012
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
In the world's never-ending quest to confuse us as much as possible, two new horror flicks are under way with the same title, Safari. The good news? They couldn't be more different. Read on for the details regarding both of them.
Last week Bloody Disgusting dropped the news that Safari, a found-footage thriller, was gearing up to start shooting on October 15th in Johannesburg, South Africa. Directed by Academy Award nominee Darrell Roodt (Little One, Yesterday) and written by Dark Was The Night scribe Tyler Hisel, the pedigree is right for this one to be a cut above.
That film “centers on a band of American tourists, stranded and hunted in the heart of the South African wilderness. Their struggle to survive the elements and the vicious predators lurking the African plain is documented by the video cameras meant to record their vacation.” Rocky Myers (Vamp U) and Kim Argetsinger...
Last week Bloody Disgusting dropped the news that Safari, a found-footage thriller, was gearing up to start shooting on October 15th in Johannesburg, South Africa. Directed by Academy Award nominee Darrell Roodt (Little One, Yesterday) and written by Dark Was The Night scribe Tyler Hisel, the pedigree is right for this one to be a cut above.
That film “centers on a band of American tourists, stranded and hunted in the heart of the South African wilderness. Their struggle to survive the elements and the vicious predators lurking the African plain is documented by the video cameras meant to record their vacation.” Rocky Myers (Vamp U) and Kim Argetsinger...
- 10/19/2012
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
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