Known Associates crime-comedy film The Drop added to eVOD as 'cinematic love letter to Johannesburg's gritty charm'

by Thinus Ferreira

The crime-comedy film The Drop, directed by Jonathan Parkinson and written by Athos Kyriakides will debut on eMedia's eVOD on 30 January, starring Didintle Khunou, Siyabonga Xaba, Garion Dowds, Bonko Khoza and Makgotso Monyemorathoe.

Produced and distributed by Known Associates, The Drop is the story of three flatmates whose mundane lives take a turn after they find themselves at the wrong end of a bank heist gone wrong.

When a robber crashes into their apartment with a bag full of stolen money, the trio's ordinary world is turned upside down.

What follows is botched escape plans, run-ins with law enforcement and an intimidating Russian mobster who wants his money back.

The Drop was filmed on location in Johannesburg's Maboneng precinct which the producers call a "cinematic love letter to Johannesburg's gritty charm and vibrant energy".

"As a director, my goal was to craft a film that blends high-stakes action with relatable, character-driven storytelling, with a wicked and sometimes quirky comedic undertone," says director Jonathan Parkinson.

"The Drop is unapologetically South African, and it’s been an incredible journey bringing this vision to life alongside an exceptional team, and seriously talented cast."

Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri, producer and Known Associates group CEO, says "This is more than just a film; it's a statement about the vibrancy and resilience of South African storytelling".

"The Drop captures the grit, humour, and unfiltered energy of Johannesburg while showcasing the immense talent our country has to offer. We're excited to deliver a story that's bold, unapologetically local, and universally relatable."

Namibian Film Fund set up by Known Associates and Tulinane Entertainment to support filmmakers and bolster Namibia's film industry.

by Thinus Ferreira

Known Associates in South Africa and Tulinane Entertainment in Namibia together with Moonlighting Films Namibia have created the Namibian Film Fund (NFF) with the aim to bolster Namibia's growing film industry through providing financial support to filmmakers.

The Namibian Film Fund tells TVwithThinus that specific details regarding eligibility criteria, application processes and fund allocation timelines are still being finalised and that more information about the fund to help filmmakers will be shared over the coming months.

The Namibian Film Fund will help with financial support and resources to filmmakers at all stages of their careers.

The Namibia Film Fund is envisioned as a financial anchor to the Namibian film industry, and to try and eliminate some of the massive financial hurdles which filmmakers in the country are facing.

"Known Associates looks forward to supporting the burgeoning talent within the Namibian film industry," said Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri, CEO of Known Associates.

"Once established, the Namibia Film Fund will provide essential financial resources and support to filmmakers, enabling them to bring their creative visions to life and share Namibia's unique narratives with the world."

Moonlighting Films, with its subsidiary Moonlighting Namibia, has over 30 years of experience in the film production industry, working on international projects such as The Woman King, Beast, Mission Impossible 8, 1923, the TV series Warrior and Boy Kills World.

Moonlighting Films Namibia will now be a joint venture partnership with Moonlighting Films and Tulinane Entertainment.

"Tulinane Entertainment is excited to collaborate with Known Associates and our esteemed partners," says Obed Emvula of Tulinane Entertainment. 

"The Namibia Film Fund represents a pivotal opportunity to empower local filmmakers and spotlight the incredible stories from Namibia."

Florence Haifene, head of the Namibian Film Commission (NFC), says "Funding has always been a challenge in Namibia, and as the Namibian Film Commission, we are excited to unlock talent, foster collaborations, and bring to life the scripts that have been lying on shelves".

"We proudly endorse and advocate for the Namibia Film Fund, a transformative collaboration between Known Associates and Tulinane Entertainment."

"This initiative exemplifies our commitment to empowering Namibian filmmakers and amplifying our cultural narratives globally. We eagerly anticipate the creative projects that will emerge, showcasing Namibia's rich heritage and diverse talent."