by Thinus Ferreira
M-Net is running a local films showcase on Sunday nights for the work of young filmmakers on Mzansi Bioskop (DStv 164) starting on 7 January and running until April.
Calling it a Young Bloods Movie Festival that will apparently be running for its third year this year - although I've never before heard anything about it from M-Net and Mzansi Magic's PR people and this being the first time I'm ever hearing about it now - the Sunday night young filmmakers showcase starts this Sunday 7 January at 19:00.
Every Sunday - from 7 January until Sunday 31 March - Mzansi Bioskop will show a film made by South Africa's young and upcoming filmmakers.
"Filmmaking has always been seen as
reserved for the experienced, well-connected and those with money to acquire
the necessary equipment and maybe studio time," says Shirley Adonisi, M-Net's channel director for local interest channels, in a statement about the Sunday film festival.
"With the Young Blood Movie Festival, we are zoning in on the talent that so many young
and aspiring filmmakers are demonstrating lately. As Mzansi Bioskop our objective is
not only to showcase the best of our locally produced content but also to use
this platform to inspire, help develop, and nurture young talent."
"These are the
production companies that may end up being content creators and suppliers for
many similar platforms," Shirley Adonisi says.
The featured movies on Mzansi Bioskop until April will highlight various themes ranging from social commentary on issues affecting society, to various ethical dilemmas prompting young people to consider complex moral issues. Some films offer simply escapism and relaxation from the pressures of daily life.
Mzansi Bioskop will showcase film titles including Madumane on 7 January produced by Leburugraphy about three young
matriculants with a dream of being Amapiano DJs, as well as Pakiso High produced
by Kerry Productions that deals with the contentious issue of child-headed households and the effects that this has on young lives.
SBWL-Gram produced by Ngomoya Productions tells a story about the real-life effects of living in the so-called aspirational world of social media while
missing out on real life.
Mapitso Ralephatha, Madumane executive producer, says the film "taps into the pulse of youth
culture, music, and storytelling while simultaneously offering a joyful and
meaningful experience".
"We got a chance to collaborate with emerging talent in
the film industry who are making their mark, which led to fresh perspectives
and innovative storytelling. We are grateful to the Mzansi team for believing
in us and supporting our narratives."
The line-up of titles of the Young Blood Movie Festival on Mzansi Biokop are as follows:
7 Jan: Madumane
14 Jan: Ziyawa
21 Jan: Pakiso High
28 Jan: Pens Down
4 Feb: Jolang
11 Feb: Shela Ndoda
18 Feb: Ba Strata
25 Feb: Yivale Mfana
3 March: Lakhe's Matric
10 March: Sunday School
17 March: Umcelo
24 March: Ma 2000
31 March: SBWL-Gram
