Oscar contender could produce another winner

L to R: Oliver Schmitz, Lerato Mvelase, Khomotso Manyaka and Harriet Manamela.

click to enlarge

The film has been awarded the Prix Francois Chalais, which was presented to the South African co-producer Greig Buckle and the Best Actress Award for first time actress, Khomotso Manyaka (Chanda), at the 31st Durban International Film Festival.

"The film has proven internationally that it is a story that resonates with the audiences by the reception it received at previous global festivals. The storyline, high quality direction and production, and the excellent performances portrayed by the actresses will stand the film in good stead when presented to the International Academy Awards Selection Committee," says Eddie Mbalo, CEO of the NFVF and chairperson of the SA Academy Awards Selection Committee.

Directed by Oliver Schmitz (Mapantsula), the film stars Lerato Mvelase (Home Affairs), Harriet Manamela (Hotel Rwanda, Hijack Stories) and Khomotso Manyaka. It is based on the international award-winning novel Chanda's Secret by Allan Stratton. It is an emotional and universal drama about a young girl who fights the fear and shame that has poisoned her community and captures the enduring strength of loyalty and a courage powered by the heart.

When Azania Muendane, acting head of marketing and public affairs, announced the news to Greig Buckle, the co-producer, he said, "We've received such an unbelievable response wherever the film is shown and we're getting exactly the results we wished for. I hope that the film goes further and brings home another statuette; the country has waited too long for another one."