Issue 10 | 2013
Callsheet Africa’s Leading Film Industry Magazine
+ Moving the Film Industry in Africa Air, Land, and Sea
+ MIPCOM
Content in the Spotlight
+ Loeries Creative Week African Creativity Shines
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18 www.filmmakerafrica.co.za Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@filmeventmedia.co.za Executive Editor: Maya Kulycky maya@filmeventmedia.co.za Business Manager: Taryn Fowler taryn@filmeventmedia.co.za Advertising Sales: Jennifer Dianez jennifer@filmeventmedia.co.za
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Contents Africa Makes the Most of MIPCOM
02
Okuhle Media: Where Strategy and Creativity Come Together
04
DISCOP Africa Delivers Content and Opportunities
05
Loeries Creative Week 2013
06
AFRIFF International Film Festival
11
South Africa’s Prison Broadcasting Network Closes
12
‘Of Good Report’ Screened in South Africa
12
Four New Channels for e.tv
13
Photo & Film Expo Offers the Imaging Industry Exposure
15
IBC Reflects Industry Changes
16
Moving the Film Industry: Land, Air, and Sea
18
Film & Event Media Wrap Party at the CTICC
27
Botswana: African Film Treasure
28
In Production
30
Industry Moves
32
Opportunities
34
Join us
Events
36
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thecallsheetsa Twitter: @FilmmakerAfrica Youtube: www.youtube.com/thecallsheet Linked In: Filmmaker Africa
Associations
38
Directory
40
Head of Design: Jess Novotna jess@filmeventmedia.co.za Editorial and Design Co-ordinator: Danielle Illman danielle@filmeventmedia.co.za 57 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont 7708, Cape Town, South Africa Telephone: +27 21 674 0646 www.filmeventmedia.co.za
DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Callsheet 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, The Callsheet and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission 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.
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NEWS
Africa Makes the Most of MIPCOM
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02 | T HE CALLSHE E T
Images © MIPCOM 2012
ntertainment content will be in the spotlight from 5-9 October in Cannes, France as MIPCOM takes centre stage. MIPCOM is the year’s most anticipated global market for entertainment content across all platforms. Each year, the industry’s leaders converge in Cannes for four days of meetings, screenings, and conferences, and to make deals - from blockbuster programming to ground breaking partnerships. The event is for co-producing, buying, selling, financing, licensing, partnerships, corporate consolidation, crossborder investments, trends forecasting and distributing entertainment content across all platforms. It attracts key industry leaders and decision-makers from the TV, film, digital media, and advertising industries. Over 13 500 people are expected to participate in MIPCOM this year, which will feature a keynote speech by Facebook’s Dan Rose and will name Dreamworks Animation’s Jeffery Katzenberg as “MIPCOM 2013 Personality of the Year”. The African continent will be represented at the event by over 60 companies. South Africa will have the most companies in attendance at MIPCOM - at least 28 are registered. Twenty-one Nigerian companies are expected to attend. Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Angola, Tunisia, and Algeria will also be at MIPCOM. South Africa’s Association for Transformation in Film and Television (ATFT), will be taking a delegation of emerging black filmmakers to MIPCOM and have partnered with established filmmakers to mentor them leading up to and at the market. The ATFT convened a training program to prepare filmmakers for the trip to Cannes that was conducted by the international Head of the Dutch Indies, Hans Boscher. They are also assisting producers attending MIPCOM in securing finance for
projects or a slate of projects and enabling producers to put in place the final elements of finance and distribution for their projects. ATFT highlights four key reasons for filmmakers to attend MIPCOM: • Find co-production partners; and discover new projects. • Find new international channels to network with and find out what they are really looking for. • Sharpen industry knowledge, understand the trends, discover new business models, and stay ahead of the curve. • Network and make deals with key decision-makers in the international content, broadcasting and entertainment industry.
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Okuhle Media Where Strategy and Creativity come together By Alison Evans
Okuhle Media founders and shareholders. From left to right: Minke Alves (Producer); Louise van Hoff (Executive Director: Production and Development); Paula Brown (Managing Director); Vuyokazi Matu (Head of HR); Anita Rowland (Producer)
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ape Town-based Television Production and Media experts, Okuhle Media (pronounced O-koo-shlé), has announced a restructuring of their Senior Management team as a result of the company’s continued growth over the past five years and their impending expansion with the new Okuhle HD Studios opening in November of this year. Joint CEOs, Louise van Hoff (McClelland) and Paula Brown, have strategically realigned their roles, with Louise heading up the fast-growing business unit, servicing both local and international markets, as Executive Director of Production and Development. Paula Brown will fill the role of Managing Director, with a continuing responsibility towards business development and marketing until the appointment of a Marketing Director in the near future.
04 | T HE CALLSHEET
Over the past 18 months, Okuhle has undertaken a series of measures to maintain momentum and ensure the continued growth of its business across all areas. This includes the business’ core offerings of Television Production, Marketing, Communications and Digital, being consolidated into distinct Business Units. “It is our intention to be geared to take full advantage of the opportunities that present themselves in a fast-changing world, thus creating a stronger and more versatile company,” said van Hoff. “Driving the focused business units is a single strategy with shared goals and a common vision that will provide a solid foundation from which to move into the future. A key part of this strategy is resource optimisation that has been highlighted as a fundamental need to achieving our 5-year vision,” van Hoff continued. For a period, the company considered the option of repositioning itself to focus entirely on production. After careful
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consideration, this was rejected as the true value of Okuhle Media, since inception in 2003, has been its ability to combine strategic marketing insight with production excellence to create viable content. In line with international trends that indicate a move towards content being conceptualised, created and executed under one roof, Okuhle Media as a true crossmedia company, is able to offer a broad range of integrated content services allowing customers, broadcasters and brands the satisfaction of knowing that all their media touch points are being taken into account, adding value to their bottom-line. “Managing change in a business takes time and effort to define exactly what is in the true interests of the business for future growth,” said Paula Brown. “I am very excited about the future. We have an incredibly talented and driven group of people working at Okuhle and believe that, with a streamlined, efficient workflow in place, and a structure geared to the future, we can only expect even greater rewards and opportunities in the years ahead.” concluded Brown.
NEWS
DISCOP Africa Delivers Content and Opportunities
A
frican entertainment content providers are preparing to showcase their best at DISCOP Africa, Africa’s premiere content development, production, and distribution industries gathering. This year’s event will be held from 6-8 November at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. DISCOP is Africa’s most highly regarded content development, production, and distribution industry gathering. “Africa is empowered by young populations, rising advertising markets, rapid digital switchover processes, strong broadband and mobile penetration, and continued growth in multiscreen viewing and subscription venues,” say organisers. “Africa is also transitioning from a massive importer to producer of entertainment, educational and informative content that is far more locally relevant.” DISCOP aims to strengthen African demand for local content and to increase overseas interest in Africa’s content. It aims to achieve this through a three-day conference that includes: • A market showcasing top regional, multicultural, and global Film and TV brands and their latest content • The “Formats from Africa” pitching competition promoting TV formats created in Africa that have local, regional, and international appeal • Networking opportunities bringing together experts and key-players driving content business across and with Africa • Face-to-face meetings which can be organised in advance between qualified participants • Mixing fundraising and learning opportunities for new generations of content producers through the new DISCOPRO program The new DISCOPRO initiative is being launched at DISCOP Africa, and was created to help TV content creators explore coproduction and fundraising opportunities, showcase their projects, and develop practical skills.
Sandton Convention Centre
Producers attending DISCOP Africa and DISCOP Istanbul, will be invited to take part in a pitching, matchmaking and training agenda code named DISCOPRO, designed to foster relations across and with Africa and Eurasia. “This initiative is sure to be a mustattend event for international producers, delivering deals, business connections and tailored solutions,” says Azania Muendane, DISCOPRO’s community manager, and adds, “…close to 200 producers with the desire to develop and co-produce TV content made in Africa will take part in the inaugural edition”. The forthcoming DISCOPRO program, taking place at DISCOP, will include three thematic pitching competitions rewarding TV shows created in Africa and dedicated meeting sessions between producers, commissioning editors and investors. A conference agenda will also feature, developed in partnership with Africa’s most active production communities, mixing inspiring discussions, thematic sessions and training tracks. Guest speakers will include Richard Bell, CEO of Wananchi Group and Zuku TV, Brett St. Clair, Head of New Products
Sub Sahara for Google/YouTube and Jason Njoku, CEO of iROKO Partners, the operators of the iROKOtv online platform, labelled the “Netflix of Africa”. The DISCOPRO program is presented with the support of Wananchi Group, East Africa’s leading home entertainment operator and the second largest Pay-TV operator in Africa. Wananchi Group operates the leading cable and satellite platform Zuku TV, which broadcasts more than 100 channels to audiences in East Africa. Richard Bell adds, “Zuku believes in partnership, and we have experience of how co-production partnerships can create highquality, high-value programming. DISCOPRO creates a unique environment for producers and broadcasters to find collaborators, across national and international borders, and even across industries.” More than 2000 delegates from 70-plus countries are expected to attend the 8th edition of DISCOP, representing more than 800 new and established regional and global companies driving content business and digital changes with and across Africa. National umbrellas representing the UK, France, the US, China, Korea, Kenya, Nigeria and South-Africa will also be present.
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NEWS
Loeries Creative Week 2013 Ice Cream Ninjas for Mediamark at The Loeries Expo
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ape Town, South Africa became a creative hub in September as over 4 000 members of the brand communication industry met to network, be inspired and educated by the power of creative communication at the Loeries Creative Week. This year, the Loeries put the business impact of and employment opportunities in the creative economy in the spotlight. At a time when economic growth and job creation are major challenges, raising awareness of the business impact of and employment opportunities in the creative economy is important. An estimated R100 million is generated through accommodation, meals, transport and hosting for the Loeries - a significant boost to the local economy. There were 3 000 entries to the Loerie Awards this year, which recognise, reward, and foster creative excellence in brand communications. “In many ways, the Loeries is a beacon of broader industry trends,” says Loeries CEO Andrew Human. “This year we saw a record number of entries in the digital category, and excellent growth in integrated campaigns and entries from Africa and the Middle East.” The fastest growing category, albeit from a small base, was the Ubuntu Award for sustainable marketing with an 80% increase in entries year on year. Sponsored for the first time by Unilever, this category recognises brands that can demonstrate programmes with a positive impact on communities and the environment.
0 6 | T HE CALLSHEET
‘Fatty Boom Boom’ won gold in the TV & Cinema Commercials Category. Agency: Egg Films Brand: Die Antwoord
The Loeries Expo Film & Event Media, which publishes The Callsheet, hosted the Loeries Expo – a creative platform featuring activations, giveaways and prizes. Exhibitors included DStv, Unilever, SAA, Hertz, Woolworths, The SpaceStation, Mediamark, Adams & Adams, Meltwater, Rocketseed, Chini Africa and Cape Town Tourism. Local fashion favourite Blue Collar White Collar had a pop-up store with a brand new range of Men’s and Women’s fashion, while tattoo artist Rob Turner allowed visitors to “leave their mark” at the Loeries. “Registration is where the party starts. We believe the entertainment value - music, competitions, and giveaways will hold people’s attention and create the right kind of networking to stimulate ideas and create brand awareness. The expo has exploded this year with a variety of brands being able to activate and market themselves to all delegates. Taryn Fowler, the exhibition organizer, has been working closely with the exhibitors, driving home creativity and out of the box promotions to ensure that creativity at Loeries 2013 is at an all-time high,” says Film & Event Media CEO Lance Gibbons.
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On The Red Carpet, Sunday 22 September 2013.
Jason Little at the International Seminar of Creativity
Send Your Facebook Profile to Cape Town won gold in the Digital & Interactive - Social Media Category. Agency: Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town Brand: Cape Town Tourism
NEWS
The Loeries Winner List Prize
Category
Brand/Product
Entry Company
Title
Grand Prix
Digital & Interactive - Social Media
Volkswagen/ VW Corporate
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Street Quest
Grand Prix
Media Innovation - Single Medium
MTN/ Telecoms
MetropolitanRepublic
Project Uganda
Grand Prix
Alternative Media & Field Marketing
Engen/ Engen Fire Blanket Calendar
DRAFTFCB Cape Town
Fire Blanket Calendar
Grand Prix
Radio Commercials - up to 90s
Frank.net/ Frank.net Life Cover
FOXP2
Death Doesn’t Have To Try Very Hard
Gold
Africa & Middle East - Print Communications
Land Rover/ Defender’90
Advantage Y&R
Bookshelf
Gold
Africa & Middle East - Outdoor & Collateral Media
Harvey Nichols/ Sale
Y&R Dubai
Pelicans
Gold
Three Dimensional & Environmental Design - Interior Design & Temporary Structures
Brandhouse/ Windhoek Draft
The Jupiter Drawing Room (South Africa) Cape Town
Windhoek Beer - Tavern Make Over
Gold
Publications Design - Annual Reports; Brochures & Technical Literature
Actuate/ Services
Actuate Marketing & Communications
A Guide to Employee Engagement
Gold
Digital & Interactive - Social Media
Cape Town Tourism/ Cape Town
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Send Your Facebook Profile to Cape Town
Gold
Outdoor Media
Tiger Brands/ Doom Super
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Wall of Shoes
Gold
Posters
Land Rover/Land Rover
Y&R South Africa
Webtropolis
Gold
TV & Cinema Commercials - above 90s
Die Antwoord/ Die Antwoord
Egg Films
Fatty Boom Boom
Gold
TV & Cinema Commercials - above 90s
Ster Kinekor/ Ster Kinekor
FOXP2
Intersection
Gold
Ubuntu Award
MTN/ Telecoms
MetropolitanRepublic
The Everywhere Library
Gold
Effective Creativity
South African Breweries/ Carling Black Label Cup
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Be The Coach
Gold
Student - Collateral Design
Selfpromo/ Infographic on Design Agencies
AAA School of Advertising Cape Town
A Few Options
Gold
Student - Architecture & Interior Design; Environmental & Package Design
Your Biltong Company/ Your Biltong Company DIY Biltong Kit
AAA School of Advertising Cape Town
Your Biltong Company DIY Biltong Kit
Gold
Student - Publication Design
Fokofpolisiekar/ Lyric Book
AAA School of Advertising Cape Town
Fokofpolisiekar
Craft Gold
Design Crafts - Writing
Actuate/ Services
Actuate Marketing & Communications
A Guide to Employee Engagement
Craft Gold
Digital Crafts - Interface & Navigation
Volkswagen/ VW Corporate
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Street Quest
Craft Gold
TV Crafts - Cinematography
Amstel Lager/ Amstel Lager
OwenKessel
Boxer
Craft Gold
Student - Print & Design Crafts Typography
Own/ Type Design for Blind and Seeing
AAA School of Advertising Cape Town
Reading Together
Campaign Gold
Africa & Middle East - Media Innovation Campaign
Radar Security/ Recruitment
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
The On-The-Job Interview
Campaign Gold
Brand Identity & Collateral Design Posters & Billboards
Loom/ Loom
iKineo
Scissors, Miami Poster, Hipster
Campaign Gold
Digital Mixed-Media Campaign
Loom de Nimes/ Loom
iKineo
Immersive Retails
Campaign Gold
PR Communication Campaign
Taste Holdings/ The Fish & Chip Co
MetropolitanRepublic
The Campaign That Never Flighted
Campaign Gold
Live Events
Volkswagen/ VW Corporate
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Street Quest
Campaign Gold
Newspaper Advertising
McDonalds/ Kids Birthday Parties
DDB South Africa
Houses
Campaign Gold
Newspaper Advertising
Independant Newspapers/ Cape Times
Lowe and Partners Cape Town
Selfies
Campaign Gold
Newspaper Advertising
Flight Centre/ Student Flights
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Weird Accents
Campaign Gold
Tactical Use of Newspaper
MTN/ Telecoms
MetropolitanRepublic
Project Uganda
Campaign Gold
Radio Commercials - up to 90s
One School At A Time/ Corporate
Joe Public
Project English
Campaign Gold
Radio Commercials - up to 90s
Mercedes Benz/ Collision Prevention Assist
NetworkBBDO
Distance To Danger
Campaign Gold
New Voice Non-English Radio
JIK - Reckitt Benckiser/ Jik
Havas Worldwide
Washing Machine
Campaign Craft Gold
Print & Collateral Crafts
Flight Centre/ Student Flights
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Weird Accents
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NEWS Prize
Category
Title
Entry Company
Brand/ Product
Campaign Craft Gold
Print & Collateral Crafts
McDonalds/ Kids Birthday Parties
DDB South Africa
Houses
Campaign Craft Gold
Radio Crafts - Writing
Frank.net/Frank Life Cover
FOXP2
Death Doesn’t Have To Try Very Hard
Campaign Craft Gold
Radio Crafts - Writing
Mercedes Benz/ Collision Prevention Assist
NetworkBBDO
Distance to Danger
Campaign Craft Gold
Student - Print & Design Crafts - Illustration
Self-Promotion/ If The Shoe Fits
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
If The Shoe Fits
Silver
Africa & Middle East - Print Communication
Girl Hub/ Nike Foundation/ Girl Hub (Girl Child Advocacy)
DDB Lagos
Speechless
Silver
Africa &Middle East - Outdoor & Collateral Media
Carex/ Carex Antibacterial Handwash
Ogilvy Africa
Dirty Money
Silver
Africa & Middle East - Media Innovation Single
Warid Telecom/ Warid
Scanad Uganda
SunDial
Silver
Brand Identity & Collateral Design - Posters & Billboards
Campaign for Cancer/ Campaign for Cancer
OPENCO The Open Collaboration
Tokolosh
Silver
Brand Identity & Collateral Design - Posters & Billboards
StopRhinPoaching.com/ Stop Rhino Poaching
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
The Rhino Stamp Project
Silver
Three Dimensional & Environmental Design Architecture
MC Weiler School, Chicken Licken, MAL Foundation/ SEED Library
NetworkBBDO & Architects of Justice
SEED Library
Silver
Three Dimensional & Environmental Design Interior Design & Temporary Structures
Brandhouse/ Windhoek Beer
The Jupiter Drawing Room (South Africa) Cape Town
Windhoek Beer - Bar Make Over
Silver
Three Dimensional & Environmental Design Package & Industrial Design
Compari International SAM/ Edward Snell & Co. Ltd/ SKYY Infusions Pineapple
Y&R South Africa
SKYY Infusions Pineapple Packaging
Silver
Design Mixed-Media Campaign
Marmite/ Marmite Sandwich Spread
MACHINE
Marmite Halloween
Silver
Design Mixed-Media Campaign
Brandhouse/ Windhoek Beer
The Jupiter Drawing Room (South Africa) Cape Town
Windhoek Pure Beer Society
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Internet Advertising
Audi South Africa/ Audi R8
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Gone in 5 Seconds
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Email Marketing
Toyota/ Toyota Hilux
Hellocomputer
Toyota Hiluk Dakar Emailer
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Social Media
Johannesburg Zoo/ Johannesburg Zoo
Hellocomputer & DRAFTFCB Johannesburg
World’s First Tweeting Badger
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Applications; Activation & Interactive Tools
SAB/ Castle Lite
Hellocomputer
Extra Cold Mind Booth
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Mobile Advertising
Playboy South Africa/ Playboy Magazine
Y&R South Africa
Debbie
Silver
Digital & Interactive - Mobile Applications & Sites
Volkswagen/ VW Corporate
Ogilvy & Mather Cape Town
Street Quest
Silver
Media Innovation - Single Medium
BMW/ BMW 7 Series
Gloo
BMW 7 series iPad Ad
Silver
Ambient Media
Tiger Brands/ Doom Fogger
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Roachville
Silver
Alternative Media & Field Marketing
MTN/ Telecoms
MetropolitanRepublic
Connector Bot
Silver
Alternative Media & Field Marketing
ODF/ The Exchange
NATIVE
The Exchange
Silver
Alternative Media & Field Marketing
Safety Lab & Blikkiesdorp4Hope/ Hope Soap
Y&R South Africa
Hope Soap
Silver
Radio Commericals - Up to 90s
Frank.net/ Frank.net Life Insurance
FOXP2
Frank Live Radio Read
Silver
New Voice Non-English Radio
KFC/ Soft Twirl
Ogilvy & Mather Johannesburg
Skhot’ So Hard
Silver
TV & Cinema Commercials - up to 90s
DARG/ DARG
Bester Burke (pty) Ltd
Love
Silver
TV & Cinema Commercials - up to 90s
Standard Bank/ Brand
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Sh-boom
Silver
Non-Broadcast Video & Film
Standard Bank/ Joy of Jazz
TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris Johannesburg
Pigeon Jazz
Silver
Ubuntu Award
Engen/ Engen Fire Blanket Calendar
DRAFTFCB Cape Town
Fire Blanket Calendar
Silver
Effective Creativity
Distell/ Oude Meester
140 BBDO
To The Masters
Silver
Student - TV; Cinema & Internet Commercials
Indigo Skate Camp
The Open Window School
Indigo Skate Camp
Silver
Student - Film; Video & Motion Graphics
Congo TV/ Congo TV Channel Identities
North-West University
Congo
Silver
Student - Film; Video & Motion Graphics
Passage
The Open Window School
Passage
Silver
Student - Collateral Design
Mission Vale Care Centre/ Mission Vale Care Centre Nutrition
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Double Barcode & Donation Box
Silver
Student - Architecture & Interior Design; Environmental & Package Design
Nagmaal
MGI Potchefstroom
Nagmaal
Silver
Student - Publication Design
None Artist Book/ Alice in Short Supply
North-West University
Alice in Short Supply
Silver
Student - Digital & Interactive Communication
Audible.com
Red & Yellow School
Fill The Gaps
08 | T HE CALLSHEET
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Trucks, Camera, Action! S By Greg Friedman
partan Film Division is a specialized division of Spartan Truck Hire & Logistics. Spartan Film Division provides South Africa with a nationwide rental service geared toward the vibrant film and TV industry. Our specialized fleet of vehicles range from one ton LDV’s to eight ton trucks that have been equipped for for lighting, special effects ( SFX) , wardrobe and unit .We have shelves available on request for lighting, unit and special effects vehicles .We also have rails available for all wardrobe requirements . Any other rigging is available on request .All vehicles are fitted with tow bars, and eight ton vehicles are equipped with tail lift gates and volumetric bodies. Nationwide support services include cross-border permits, live vehicle track and trace, and a 24/7 roadside assistance and anti-hijack team. For further details contact our nationwide call center on 0861 SPARTAN or visit www.spartantruckhire.co.za
www.f i l mma kera f r i ca .co.za T HE C A L L S HEET
| 09
Experience the Kings and Queens of Culinary Entertainment By Oyster King
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ant to give your guests the royal treatment? Choose some entertainment in a language that everyone speaks, the language of food. Choose any one of these roving royals: Oyster King, Biltong, Bubbly or Macaroon Queens, who will entertain your guests while serving a few gourmet-inspired morsels. Each brand activation is quite unique – a well-trained, personable promotional team serving oysters, macaroons, bubbly, biltong, or cake pops to your guests makes their way ‘round the crowd’. Oyster Kings and Queens are teams of debonair young guys and girls who are quick on the draw as they shuck, garnish and serve fresh West Coast oysters. Dressed in their leather attire,
they’re equipped with tools, oysters and condiments that will set the tone for a truly inspirational event. These Kings and Queens are also well versed in oyster trivia, to further enhance the experience. While they chatter, your guests are invited to top their oysters with tabasco, squeeze of lemon, or black pepper as they enjoy the taste of the sea without missing a beat in conversation. Some of the Royalty the Oyster King Group has entertained are King WillemAlexander of The Netherlands and the King of the Virgin Empire Sir Richard Branson. Spice up your event by including a King or Queen of rather tasty proportions. It’s the ‘cherry on the top’ of a perfect event. Contact www.oysterking.co.za 0860 OYSTER or info@oysterking.co.za
Tri-Continental Film Festival Gets Underway
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s The Callsheet went to print the eleventh annual Tri Continental Film Festival (TCFF), Africa’s longest-running human rights film festival, was underway. The festival showcases outstanding cinema that deals with socio/political and human rights themes. Festival Director Anita Khanna says, “this year’s selection represents the best
examples of the documentary craft and has deep resonance for all those in South Africa standing up for justice and economic freedom. Many films speak to the common theme of democracy, playing a dual role of bolstering the efforts of those fighting on the ground for service delivery and for a living wage, while exposing what is at stake when a country continues on a path of impunity of the rich and powerful.
And because violence against women has reached crisis point, the ongoing struggles for women’s rights are highlighted in the Sex Politics section.” The festival will feature an environmental justice section that is a space to discuss the collective response to the global climate crisis and Amnesty International South Africa will offer a prestigious new award to the Best Human Rights Film.
NEWS
AFRIFF International Film Festival
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The film ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’, a drama set during the struggle to establish an independent republic in Nigeria directed by Biyi Bandele and starring Thandie Newton, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Anika Noni Rose will open the festival.
or its third edition, AFRIFF has some changes in store. The festival, which is being held from 30 November to 4 December in Lagos, Nigeria, has had a name change, for starters. The festival will henceforth be called the “AFRIFF International Film Festival” instead of the “Africa International Film Festival”. According to organisers, AFRIFF aims to become, “Africa’s annual destination for fantastic film experience[s] and celebration every November”. It will feature not just a film programme but talent development and technical training aimed at raising local industry standards, business sessions and networking opportunities, and a “unique industry programme that will encourage and grow interaction on content trade out of Africa and global partnerships.” This year, four categories of films were accepted to the festival’s competition: features, documentaries, animation, and shorts. However, there have been changes to the festival’s award structure. AFRIFF’s founder, Chioma Ude says, “This year and henceforth,” she said, “the awards for excellence in the four film categories at AFRIFF have been increased from five to eleven. These now are Best Feature Film, Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actress, all under the FEATURE FILM category while the DOCUMENTARY FILM and ANIMATION FILM categories will offer awards for Best Documentary and Best Animation respectively. The SHORT FILM category on the other hand now offers
two awards, Best Short and Best Student Short. The latter is a new award created as an incentive to students and young filmmakers aimed at recognizing and encouraging their creative expressions. A new eclectic award called the SPECIAL JURY AWARD has also been instituted and will be given to the producers, in the opinion of the jury, of the most outstanding film, cutting across all the categories of movies submitted. Lastly is the Audience Choice Award, which will be given to the producer of the movie, voted as most liked, at the screenings by viewing participants at the festival. Monetary prizes for best films in the competition will range between $2,000 - $6,000.” The film ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’, a drama set during the struggle to establish an independent republic in Nigeria directed by Biyi Bandele and starring Thandie Newton, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Anika Noni Rose will open the festival. The film ‘Of Good Report’ has been selected as the closing film.
NEWS
South Africa’s Prison Broadcasting Network Closes
M
arius Boaden, the founder and CEO of South Africa’s Prison Broadcasting Network, announced in September that the network has closed its doors. Marius says that the network had its service suspended at Pollsmoor prison in July 2011 – an “unexpected” and “immediate” action - but the organisation continued to efforts to secure support and continued services until last month. Says Marius, “the final result was that we lost all our sponsors and Correctional Services effectively disposed of a very successful rehabilitation project/ organisation. An organisation with a 16-year unblemished history that did far more than
teach inmates crafts or hobbies. The only organisation of its kind in the world which had the potential to make a positive difference to every single inmate in the country through our television broadcasts and one which has left an indelible mark on hundreds if not thousands of offenders. An organisation that gave everything to Correctional Services to assist them with rehabilitation, and asked for nothing in return. We received no government funding throughout our 15 year existence.” Since the closing, Marius has accepted a position as Executive Deputy Director of Go-Tell Communications and Regional Deputy Director of the Christian Broadcast Network Africa.
‘Of Good Report’ Screened in South Africa
‘
Of Good Report’ made international headlines when the South African Film and Publications Board refused it classification, thus preventing it from opening the Durban International Film Festival earlier this year. Following a successful appeal by the producers it has been screened in South Africa. Now, producer Spier Films reports that Sales Agent 6 Sales have picked up the film. Marina Fuentes, Managing Director says, “OF GOOD REPORT is the most original film I’ve seen in the last years. The dark humour mixed with all the references to film classics will make the day for the well-versed. Very glad it got unbanned!” 6 Sales also represent ‘Young Ones’ directed by Jake Paltrow and starring Michael
Shannon, Nicholas Hoult, Elle Fanning and Kodi Smit- McPhee which was shot earlier this year near Springbok and produced by Spier Films and Subotica Entertainment. Following its recent world premiere at TIFF, ‘Of Good Report’ will screen in competition at the BFI London Film Festival in October. The film runs as part of the Official Competition line-up, recognising inspiring, inventive and distinctive filmmaking. ‘Of Good Report’ is directed by Jahmil X.T. Qubeka and produced but Michael Auret of Spier Films and Luzuko Dilima of The New Brighton Motion Picture Company. The film stars Mothusi Magano as a teacher who embarks on an affair with his pupil, played by Petronella Tshuma, with tragic consequences.
NEWS
Four New Channels for e.tv
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ccording to Channel 24, e.tv plans to debut four additional free-to-air TV channels in October as part of the broadcaster’s transition to digital terrestrial television (DTT). The roll-out occurs exactly 15 years after the broadcaster started in South Africa. e.tv reportedly plans to launch a kids channel, movie channel, “African channel” focusing on Pan-African programming, and “a local content” channel, all under the “e” brand banner. The four additional e.tv channels will first be available on the planned and new OpenView HD satellite platform which
Platco Digital wants to launch in October. The new channels form part of e.tv’s group of additional and free TV channels for DTT which would be available to all viewers who buy a set-top box once South Africa migrates from analogue to digital broadcasting, a process that has faced long delays. e.tv – similar to the SABC and M-Net – face an uphill battle as South African broadcasters due to the delay in the switch to digital broadcasting, a process known as digital migration. As e.tv, the SABC and M-Net all plan to launch and roll out their own additional sets of digital TV channels for which viewers will
have to buy a STB, the position of satellite television in South Africa is becoming ever more entrenched due to the failure to commercially launch DTT in the country.
ExecuJet Africa
A Complete Aviation Travel Solution by ExecuJet Aviation Group
Aircraft Charter ExecuJet Africa offers an extensive range of air charter services from three bases: In South Africa from Lanseria International Airport (near Johannesburg) and from Cape Town International Airport; in Nigeria from Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. Contact our team to enquire about our range of private jets, turboprops and helicopters. Let us arrange your leisure travel charter packages, executive air charter, or enjoy international air charter on board any of our luxury, long-range private aircraft. Our charter service is internationally accredited by ISBAO, Wyvern and ARGUS Pros ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
FBO Services: Personalised Attention Our commitment to service excellence would
not be possible without our global network of Fixed Base Operations (FBOs) to ensure the smooth running of business aviation on the ground. Whether you require refuelling, ground handling and flight planning services, or aircraft repair and maintenance, our FBO staff and qualified engineers are on site. While visiting Lanseria, Cape Town or Lagos, you will find our extensive network of contacts and local knowledge invaluable when it comes to the careful planning of your trip, both within Africa and beyond. Our facilities also serve as ideal locations for film shoots, photo shoots and events.
Aircraft Management Managing over 150 privately and/or commercially registered aircraft on behalf of private, business and government
owners worldwide, our aircraft management service allows you all the benefits of aircraft ownership, but with none of the timeconsuming management responsibilities involved in aircraft operations. Let us take care of complex matters such as aviation legislation compliance, aircraft maintenance coordination, staff recruitment, and productive aircraft operation, and let our services provide you with lower costs and greater efficiencies. Our dedicated team of management professionals is available 24 hours, 365 days a year, and will ensure the smooth running of your aircraft worldwide.
Charter Cape Town International Airport | Tel: +27 21 934 5764 FBO 24 hrs | +27 82 330 7399 Charter 24 hrs | charter@execujet.co.za / fbo.fact@ execujet.co.za Lanseria International Airport | Tel: +27 11 516 2300 / Tel: +27 11 701 3472 24 hrs | +27 82 330 7399 Charter 24 hrs | charter@execujet.co.za / fbo.fala@execujet.co.za Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos Nigeria | Tel: +234 1295 5110 / +234 803 360 2917 (24hrs) | enquiries@execujet.com.ng / fbo.dnmm@execujet.com.ng
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Up to Speed with Marine Scene
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t’s not often that one feels the winter has been too short when you service the Cape Town, South Africa film industry but it has certainly zoomed past for us here at Marine Scene! Looking back gratefully over the last 12 busy months, some of the exciting occasions include: • The restructuring of our growing business with our new partner Franco coming onboard (so to speak) bringing with him a wealth of marine experience and film set savvy. Franco will be popping in to all our clients who have yet to meet him over the next few months, to introduce himself personally. • A few ground-breaking and very successfully executed projects such as the Red Bull Vlugtag in the V&A Waterfront, for which we provided the marine logistics. The event was the first of its kind in South Africa and drew crowds of up to 220 000 to the show. Grant, who was the Water Safety Coordinator, Franco, and their
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By Michèle Spooner
legendary team did a fantastic job and were generously praised by the Harbour Master, disaster management personnel and the organisers. Another fulfilling project we had the pleasure to be involved with was the ‘Enchanted Kingdom’ BBC Earth documentary, which was shot on the West Coast in April with really great crew of true professionals. We sent some of our in-house crew on skills development training programs, with the latest courses available in the marine industry, updating their qualifications and ensuring that we are always correctly certified and trained with the most current technology. We have finally had the opportunity to embrace the new generation of 4-stroke Outboard engines for our primary inhouse fleet. We have another custom-designed 8.5m Rigid Inflatable Boat on order from Gemini Inflatables. This flagship will be on the water by October, joining our
existing four high-powered 8.5m R.I.Bs which are all commercially certified up to 40nm offshore and for night ops. • Last but not least, we have had the good fortune to land the first season of the T.V. Series ‘SAF Rescue 3’ with Kalahari Pictures, providing not only the marine support but also location services, allowing us to showcase our beautiful, unique scenery and our marine capabilities. It’s been a wonderful project thus far, Michael and Irfaan have not only worked incredibly hard landing this project and securing some spectacular locations, but they have also put together a genuinely wonderful crew who we look forward to seeing every day, so congratulations to them! On that note, we look forward to seeing you all this season too, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for our current rates sheet, portfolio, C.V.s or your latest bid. You can also find out more information on our website www.marinescene.co.za.
NEWS
Photo & Film Expo
Offers the Imaging Industry Exposure
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his month, the imaging industry will be in the spotlight at the Photo & Film Expo in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Callsheet spoke with organizer Matt Raven about what visitors can expect at this year’s event.
What are the highlights of this year’s Photo & Film Expo? This year marks the 5th anniversary of the event and as such The PHOTO & FILM EXPO and our exhibitors are going ‘all-out’ to not only make it bigger and better than any of the previous four events but to also include fresh content, even better specials (if that’s possible) and bigger give-aways and prizes. Visitors can expect over 400 photographic and film brands under one roof (most unavailable in stores), show specials of up to 70% off and the very latest releases to demo and purchase. We have incredible guest speakers this year offering over 100 unique workshops and demonstrations free to attendees, six of these presentations are hosted by international guest speakers who have flown in specially for the very first time. With so much happening it’s impossible to single out a handful of highlights, the entire event is a highlight.
Q. How do you think the industry has changed in the last five years and how will the Expo reflect this? The imaging industry, in particular photography and filmmaking, has become accessible to practically everybody. With cameras being the primary selling point of mobile devices (phones, tablets, laptops)
and social media driving people to share their images via sites like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, the industry has seen a sudden boom and a demand for images that stand out from the rest. Not only is photography the fastest growing art form available it’s also the fastest developing in terms of technology and amazing new developments (like underwater capabilities, higher resolutions, compact sizes and more advanced sensors) emphasising the photographers desire to take images that are unique and/or better than those produced before. Browse galleries of amazing photographic work - produced using anything from cellphones through to the latest top end Medium Format cameras, see the latest software developments that have revolutionised the processing of still/moving images over the past few years, and network with fellow members of an industry that has boomed out of proportion.
What do you think Africa has to offer the photo and film industries that is unique? The African photographic and filmmaking communities have been largely overlooked in the past with a common international perception being that the continent is behind the times technologically and artistically. While this might have been true a few years back the accessibility of affordable training, equipment and software has quickly brought our industry to global standards while retaining a distinctively African feel. Africa has the best locations, largest cultural variety, amazing wildlife, and a fresh industry with a new approach.
Is there anything you would like to add? The PHOTO & FILM EXPO has been developed by industry members with the support of industry service providers to help grow, educate and promote local photography and filmmaking to the broader community. 2012 saw visitors from 40 countries attend the event, over 20 000 attendees in total, purchasing in excess of R150 million rand worth of equipment and services over four days and spending on average well over 6 hours at the event. The event is the largest of its kind on the continent, boosting trade relations, local awareness and helping to put our talent and suppliers on the international map. Please come through and support our exhibitors, take part in the numerous workshops and collaborate with other visitors at the event. Tickets are limited, available from www.webtickets.co.za/photofilm One lucky reader of our website won two tickets to attend the Photo & Film Expo. To enter our latest competition visit www.filmmakerafrica.co.za
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NEWS
IBC Reflects Industry Changes
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ore than 50 000 attendees from more than 160 countries converged on Amsterdam in September for the IBC (International Broadcasting Convention), an annual event for professionals engaged in the creation, management, and delivery of news content. But what they see there continues to evolve from the industry norms of the past. In a welcome message, Michael Lumley, Chair of the IBC Conference Committee, noted how much the industry landscape has changed over the last ten years. “If you were to look at the conference programme for IBC even as recently as 10 years ago,” stated Michael, “you would see that it would be dominated by traditional broadcasters. Today the landscape has changed completely. Multi-platform delivery, consumer choice of devices and content, social media, new ways of connecting producers and audiences: these are the key issues of the day.” That has led to a change in who headlines at IBC. It used to be dominated by broadcasting executives, now the list includes the leaders of companies like Amazon, Twitter, and retailer Tesco.
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There has also been a change in what countries are participating in IBC. Michael notes that, “In another vitally important change, a number of our keynote speakers are from India and South Africa. That reflects the increasingly global nature of our industry, with what were once developing markets now driving commercial, creative and technical innovation.” Key highlights of the conference will be a discussion of “Big Data” and the impact of social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter on the industry. Technology will remain at the heart of the conference. Meanwhile, this year’s International Honour for Excellence award will be given to director Peter Jackson. Visitors to IBC also expect to learn about the developments which are shaping the industry, interact with the latest technology, all while experiencing new product demonstrations from the industry’s top companies.
www. f ilmmak eraf r ic a. c o . za
Errol’s Tracking Services Skill and Experience By Frances Ludwig
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rrol has been operating in the film industry for over 25 years, and his wealth of knowledge and hands on experience makes Errol’s Tracking Services the most qualified South African Film Tracking company! Fully-equipped warehouses in both Cape Town and Johannesburg ensure the availability of the required vehicles to production companies. The Cape Town division has the Low Bed Process Trailer, Citroen, and Shot Maker Tracking Vehicle while the Johannesburg Division now boasts the exciting New Shot Maker as well as the Ford Tracking Vehicle, Citroen, and Low Bed Process Trailer. The Shot Makers’ speciality is the capability of carrying any camera crane - from the Giraffe to the Techno 30! The vehicle
is very quiet and fitted with smooth riding suspension, which is adjustable to weight and ride comfort and can be used for allaround camera tracking and A-framing with optional front, rear, and side platforms. The working area is fitted with safety rails which can also be used for rigging. Errol has recently been shooting on various features such as ‘The Salvation’, ‘Babalas’, ‘Schuks! Your Country Needs You’, ‘Hector’ and ‘Vehicle 19’, which is currently on Circuit. Various commercials have been shot with
Stillking Films, Jump Productions, Gatehouse Commercials, Fog Hound Studios, Orange Films, Steel and Velocity Films in recent weeks. The fully-fitted 8 Ton Camera Trucks have been revamped with the converting of the Dark Room into a workable DIT area. Contact us for all your tracking requirements! Tel: 021 557 3794, Fax: 086 563 0458, Errol: 082 455 9932, Frances: 082 928 6292, Email: francesi@mweb.co.za, www.trackingvehicles.co.za
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FEATURE
Moving the Film Industry Land, Air, and Sea
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hen writing about the film industry, the mainstream media generally talks about actors. Even industry magazines tend to focus on directors and screenwriters. But behind every good film are the unsung heroes who make sure everything is in the right place, at the right time, whether on land, in the air, or out at sea.
Ray Burgess: Pioneer Freight Ray has been working with the film industry since 1992 when he founded Pioneer Freight, which now has offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. “At that point there were only two suppliers to the movie industry,” he remembers. Pioneer Freight was the customer broker for both and has worked with almost all the suppliers who’ve broken away since then.
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By Kevin Kreidemann
Pioneer Freight provides a “door-todoor service,” handling everything from air and sea freighting to imports permitting and customs clearances to courier services and ATA Carnets (“an internationally recognized customs document that speeds up the process by allowing you to bypass the normal customer import-export procedures.”) Pioneer Freight works with a variety of industries. Ray says that compared to most of them, the film industry is “extremely stressful” since we tend to “want everything yesterday.” The time-differences involved in working with different territories means that he never switches his phone off. “We’re often asked to pick something up on a Sunday and get it to the UK by Monday,” he says. Pioneer Freight is increasingly working outside of South Africa: they’re currently moving three tons of camera equipment
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© The Aerial Perspective
from Los Angeles to Malaysia for Survivor and are working increasing across Africa. “Africa is picking up a lot,” says Ray. “We’ve worked in Nigeria, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique and Madagascar - all over the place.” He says this increase in African work is not without its challenges. “The Carnet is recognised in most countries throughout the world, except Africa. The only countries here are Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland, but anywhere else film supplies become a temporary importexport, which is a mission. We have the necessary agents but it always takes a lot longer and there can be delays in getting your deposits back. It’s just not as easy as the rest of the world yet.” He says one major change is that very few production companies are filming with negative these days, which in the past Pioneer Freight would have air-freighted around the world.
FEATURE
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Our type of work is all out of doors, so it’s very seasonal� We work more in Cape Town in summer and Joburg in winter.
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Margie Welch, Value Logistics Value Logistics was established in 1981 and offers express courier services, freightpak, clearing and forwarding, container storage, a fridge fleet, and materials handling equipment like forklifts. They have 16 offices across South Africa, as well as bases in Windhoek, Namibia and Gaborone, Botswana. Value Logistics started focusing on the film industry in 2006 and now provide a dedicated film fleet of 1-8 ton vehicles specially designed for the film industry. They also handle the clearing and forwarding of film equipment and the securing of cross-border vehicle permits, which includes Namibia, Botswana,
Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. “I saw there was an opportunity in the market for people who understood the quirkiness of it, because the film industry is very quirky,” says Margi, who adds that Value Logistics offers a one-stop shop with 24-hours and seven-days-a-week service to the industry. They’ve seen the most demand from the feature film sector. On ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’, they organised 172 transport vehicles for the shoot in Namibia and South Africa. “We organized special crossborder permits for a year,” she says, adding that things ran smoothly originally but that extra costs arrived once the Namibian government started seeing the volume coming across the border. Margi says their H1 Panel Vans with
Cantilever tail lifts are particularly popular with lighting and camera crew “because of the stability of the tail when they’re offloading equipment. It’s to the ground.” She adds that the volume body eight ton panel vans with double-tail lift are also popular for transporting the Super Techno Crane. Value Logistics also supplies fully kitted wardrobe units, with clothing rails, washing machines and tumble dryers. Margi says the biggest change recently has been in their camera trucks, where they’ve replaced their dark rooms with computer workstations for DITs. She says most of their film work is spread between Cape Town and Johannesburg, although they’ve worked with Namibian companies shooting in Botswana. She’s noticed more commercials shooting in Johannesburg recently, as well as a trend of crew buying their own vehicles and hiring themselves out as a package.
Frances Ludwig, Errol’s Tracking Service Errol Ludwig has been working in the film industry for over 25 years. “His wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience makes Errol’s Tracking Services the most qualified South African film tracking company,” asserts Frances. Errol’s Tracking Service has fully
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FEATURE
© Errol’s Tracking Service
equipped warehouses in both Cape Town and Johannesburg. “Our type of work is all out of doors, so it’s very seasonal,” Frances says. “We work more in Cape Town in summer and Joburg in winter.” The Cape Town division has the Low Bed Process Trailer, Citroen and Shot Maker Tracking Vehicle, while the Johannesburg Division boasts the New Shot Maker as well as the Ford Tracking Vehicle, Citroen and Low Bed Process Trailer. “The Shot Maker’s specialty is the capability to carry any camera crane, from the Giraffe to the Techno 30,” says Frances. “The vehicle is very quiet and fitted with
smooth riding suspension, which is adjustable to weight and ride comfort and can be used for all round camera tracking and A-framing, with optional front, rear and side platforms. The working area is fitted with safety rails, which can also be used for rigging.” Errol’s Tracking Service recently revamped their fully-fitted eight ton camera trucks, converting the dark rooms into workable DIT areas. Errol has recently shot commercials with Stillking, Jump, Gatehouse, Fog Hound Studios, Orange, Steel and Velocity Films, as well as features like ‘The Salvation’,
‘Babalas’, ‘Schuks Your Country Needs You’, ‘Hector’, and ‘Vehicle 19’. “99% of ‘Vehicle 19’ was done by tracking,” says Frances. “Everything was on the trailer.” She says she’s noticed a slow-down in demand for tracking recently, with aerial shots becoming a lot more popular. “But there are some things you can only do with tracking,” she says. “Like if you want the city skyline tracking next to vehicles, when the vehicle is on the low loader and it looks like they’re driving.” Apart from the odd call to Durban, she says they do almost all their work in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
FEATURE
Keith Quixley, The Aerial Perspective Anthony Allen founded The Aerial Perspective in 1993 and also operates FlyTandem.Biz, which offers tandem paragliding around Cape Town. Anthony is a Springbok paraglider who is also the national paragliding representative for The South African Hangliding and Paragliding Association, as well as a safety officer at The Glen Paragliding Club. “We offer everything aerial and anything to do with aviation,” says Keith, who joined Anthony five years ago. “If we can’t do it ourselves, we can find you someone who can.” In addition to shooting aerial photography and video, Keith says The
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We facilitate whatever will get the shot the most cost-effectively�That could be a helicopter, an ultralight plane, a powered paraglider, or a gyrocopter.
Aerial Perspective has sourced aircrafts as props, organized stunt pilots, and arranged the necessary permissions for shoots, which will depend on where you’re flying, when, and how low you need to go. They have also arranged the permissions for aerobatic displays. He says the advent of digital cinematography has meant that “while the demand’s gone up, the price has come down… It’s no longer just about the
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© The Aerial Perspective
Cineflex; there are a lot more options in terms of costs, quality and flexibility.” They shoot a lot on Canon 5D Mark IIIs. “It’s tricky because it’s not stabilized, but you can get away with post-shooting stabilization, although you lose a bit of image quality in cropping in on the frame.” They also shoot on a variety of aircraft, which come with different price-points. “We facilitate whatever will get the shot the most cost-effectively,” says Keith. “That could be a helicopter, an ultralight plane, a powered paraglider, or a gyrocopter.” He’s noticed an increase in demand for drone technology like quadcopters and hexicopters, where cameras are attached to remote-controlled drones. Keith warns that this is currently unregulated technology where there are a lot of people, “operating the machines without an appreciation of the damage they can do.” He clearly loves what he does. “Getting up to 10 000 feet and looking down on Table Mountain, it all just looks very different,” he says.
FEATURE Michèle Spooner, Marine Scene
© The Aerial Perspective
Michèle and Grant Spooner launched Marine Scene in 1999. “The concept of a marine coordination service has now become more accepted, but 15 years ago we had to convince producers that using our services would save them time, money and frustration,” Michèle says. “Marine Scene was born at a time when producers still used the craft guy’s single engine ski-boat as their camera boat; art directors were running around yacht clubs trying to find featured vessels; and skippers with only recreational licenses were stranding film crews on sandbanks and having to wait for the tide to turn before returning to shore!” Marine Scene offers a comprehensive marine support service, which includes correctly certified and qualified personnel, boats and equipment. “Depending on the requirement, we can provide commercial divers, skippers, surface rescue swimmers, sailors, rigging technicians, paramedic rescue divers and associated crew; as well as a wide selection of commercially certified camera boats, platforms, P.W.C’s and specialist equipment,” says Michèle. “We will source and mange all your featured vessels. We have a big database of featured boats, from sailing and motor yachts, to row boats and fishing trawlers, to ships, you name it.” They also offer a locations service to scout and manage marine locations. Another part of their role is complying with the ever-developing marine legislation for both vessels and personnel involved in commercial marine work. “In South Africa, S.A.M.S.A has been responsible for the elevation of our marine industry to the highest international standards,” she says.
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FEATURE
© Marine Scene
Michèle jokes that the most popular sea locations are always, “the controlled ones. There is always the classic request for a calm and sheltered bay, with a 180 degree open horizon, 28 degrees Celsius water, 20m viz. and so on. Thankfully South Africa boasts one of the most beautiful, relatively pristine coastlines in the world, with a huge variety of aquatic scenery to choose from.” She says there are now also two tanks at Cape Town Film Studios, while in Ottery Kalahari Pictures has set up a permanent, heated, 30x15m tank, which is subdivided into four pools and 3m deep in sections. “It’s been fantastic. We finally have film-friendly, specially-adapted, controlled locations to film all sorts of underwater sequences,” says Michèle. “The Kalahari tank especially has been carefully designed to facilitate a variety of marine scenarios, so we are very excited to start working there towards the end of September.” She says there is definitely more underwater filming taking place. “I think that filming in water is less ‘scary’ than it used to be for most producers,” she says. Michèle believes that two cameras that
© Marine Scene
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FEATURE
are polar opposites have revolutionized aquatic cinematography. “On the one hand, the GoPro has liberated amateur filmmakers globally to shoot some amazing footage on and under the water,” she says. “On the other hand, there’s the beautiful Phantom, with which we have had the pleasure to work on a few occasions.” Marine Scene has embraced the new generation of four-stroke outboard engines. “A pleasure to operate, they are quiet with no smoke, minimal vibration and a much lower consumption.” She also raves about the new Garmin GPS technology; the LED revolution for nav lights, search lights and on-deck working lights; and their state-of-the-art 8.5m Rigid Inflatable Boats from Gemini. They’ll launch the latest edition to their Waverider fleet in early October. Marine Scene has worked in the Seychelles, Maldives, France, Italy, Mozambique and Mauritus. “We have an extensive international network of industry peers with whom we work so are able to facilitate and manage marine operations anywhere in the world.”
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World-Class Service and Peace of Mind By Gustav Marais
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ickers Action is recognised as one of the largest camera tracking vehicle suppliers in the world. Internationally, Bickers Action is also known as the engineering specialist behind stunts in European and Hollywood films, including the ground-breaking stunts of the James Bond 007 films. In Southern Africa, Bickers Action builds on its tradition of excellence through its Cape Town, South Africa office. Bickers Action SA provides solutions to the local film industry in South Africa and prides itself in offering the latest equipment in its specialist field of work. Bickers Action SA believes that with the arrival of the world class Cape Town Film Studios South Africa will start attracting larger international films creating more opportunities for local film industry contractors. A degree of this influx has already been felt since our company’s first season in South Africa in 2009 and we are now ready to proceed into the next phase of our own operations in Southern Africa by introducing more equipment to facilitate the local industry more effectively. Bickers Action SA is also proud to announce its association with The Freedom Arm ™ to be introduced during the 2013/14 film season. The Freedom Arm ™ is South Africa’s local built gyro-stabilized remote controlled robotic camera boom aimed at filling a void in the affordability of this popular concept crane and in order to meet a demand. The Freedom Arm ™ also sets out to showcase the skill and
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expertise available in the South African film and film equipment engineering industries by pushing the limits of this high tech high speed vehicle roof-mounted camera crane concept even further by adding an automatic telescopic function to its ability. “But it is not all just about offering the latest equipment,” says Bickers Action SA’s Gustav Marais. “As a service provider in this line of work you need to have the infrastructure behind you to handle multiple and large projects and offer production peace of mind. Insurance is also a big issue in our industry and no less so when it comes to tracking vehicles carrying crew and expensive camera equipment in terms of legal load ratings which can directly affect production insurance in the event of a claim. Bickers Action SA is the first tracking vehicle company in South Africa to insure its tracking vehicles comprehensively under a custom media insurance policy,
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the first of its kind in South Africa, which identifies the use and risk involved of a camera tracking vehicle in the making of films and commercials.” Bickers Action SA is proud to be part of the South African film and television industry. www.bickers.co.za Bickers Action - Worldwide Film and TV Action
MONTHLY WRAP PARTY
Film & Event Wrap Party at the CTICC
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ndustry leaders joined Film & Event Media for an evening of networking at the versatile and modern Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in Cape Town, South Africa. The CTICC, which serves as a film location, welcomed guests with an airport theme – a witty twist on the fact that the CTICC has doubled as an airport in movies. Andrew Human, CEO of the Loeries Creative Week, was the guest speaker, providing insight into this year’s event. Film & Event Media would like to thank all of our sponsors including the CTICC, Loeries, Visual Impact, and the Westin Cape Town.
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Botswana African Film Treasure
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nown as the gem of Africa, Botswana combines political stability and economic growth with natural beauty. This landlocked country is one of Africa’s wilderness treasures. Thirty-eight percent of Botswana is devoted to national parks, reserves and wildlife management areas. However, Botswana is also cosmopolitan, earning the country the nickname “Switzerland of Africa”. Luxury hotels, and world-class conference centres to meet the needs of global business travellers. Botswana attracts commercials projects with reasonable filming fees and helpful government officials.
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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT
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Botswana attracts commercials projects with reasonable filming fees and helpful government officials.
Kubu Island Kubu Island is a dry granite rock island located in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The island is located a few kilometers away from Orapa and Letlhakane mining towns. The entire island is a national monument, and is considered a sacred site by the indigenous people of the area.
Getting to Botswana by Air Botswana Film Milestone Botswana’s film industry got international attention in 2007 when the film version of the bestselling novel The No 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, was shot in the country. Oscarwinning director Anthony Minghella shot the film in Botswana’s capitol Gaborone and the Makgadikgadi Pans, huge salt flats in northern Botswana. The film follows the exploits of heroine Precious Ramotswe—played by United Sates rhythm and blues diva Jill Scott.
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is located 15 km north of Gaborone. It is the main international airport of the capital city of Botswana. It handles regional and international traffic. Most major international airlines from Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, where connecting flights can be booked to Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, or to Maun, Francistown or Kasane.
of winter, characterised by clear sunny days and cold nights. Spring begins in August and temperatures rise rapidly during the hot, dry period of September, October and November until the rains break again.
You Need to Know About Botswana’s film industry is primarily based on wildlife and natural history. A master film permit is required for Botswana regardless of where you are filming or for how long. This applies to any type of filming or still photography if it is for financial gain, including marketing films for Botswana companies. If you are filming in one of the national parks, game reserves or wildlife protected areas you also need a Supplementary Film Permit from the Department of Wildlife. (Source: Tania Jenkins - Afriscreen Films)
Population 2,127,825 in July 2013 according to the CIA World Factbook
Key Venues
Climate
Okavango Delta The Okavango Delta is one of the most sought after wilderness destinations in the world. It is the world’s largest inland delta and is situated in an extremely arid region. The delta attracts great concentrations of diverse animals and birds. The climate is at odds with the lush environment and plays an important role in making the Okavango Delta a safari destination.
Botswana is landlocked and very nearly in the centre of the southern African subcontinent on an elevated plateau of approximately 1000 metres. These factors tend to cause low annual rainfall. The seasons in Botswana are indistinct. Rains generally start in October or November and persist through to March or April. Within in that period there may be long dry spell. In April temperatures begin to fall and May is generally regarded as the first month
‘The Gods Must Be Crazy’
Did you know? The most popular fiction film ever made about Botswana (supposedly) - but not actually filmed there - was ‘The Gods Must Be Crazy’ (1980), with a sequel (1989) and a further sequel called ‘Fei zhou he shang’ (1991). The first two movies were filmed in the Northern Transvaal (now Limpopo Province) and the third in Hong Kong.
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© Shutterstock
COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT
IN PRODUCTION
In Production October 2013 Thanks to ever-present confidentiality clauses, no one is ever allowed to officially talk about what’s in production in Africa, so this monthly section is an unofficial overview of the industry’s worst-kept secrets. After a few slower months, things seem to be busy again…
‘Dominion’ Film Afrika is working on the 90-minute TV movie pilot for ‘Dominion,’ a sequel series to the 2010 film ‘Legion.’ According to Deadline, ‘Dominion’ picks up 25 years later in the aftermath of a catastrophic war between an army of angels and mankind that only four cities survived. Christopher Egan (‘Kings’) stars alongside Alan Dale (‘The Killing’, ‘Ugly Betty’) and Tom Wisdom (‘300’). ‘Legion’’s Scott Stewart is directing the pilot, written by Vaun Wilmott (‘Sons of Anarchy’).
‘SAF3’ Christopher Egan (left) in ‘Kings’
‘Northmen: A Viking Saga’ Two Oceans Productions is shooting the feature ‘Northmen: A Viking Saga.’ ‘Sniper Reloaded’’s Claudio Faeh is directing the story of Viking marauders shipwrecked deep within enemy territory. According to Deadline, the cast includes Ryan Kwanten (‘True Blood’), Tom Hopper (‘Merlin’), Ken Duken (‘Inglorious Bastards’), and Anatole Taubman (‘Quantum of Solace’).
‘The Giver’
Kalahari Pictures continues filming in Cape Town on ‘SAF3,’ a new TV series from Gregory J. Bonann, the creator of ‘Baywatch.’ Starring action legend Dolph Lundgren (‘The Expendables’), the series follows an elite multi-agency task force dedicated to saving human life. The team consists of heroes who form a highly-specialised rescue unit to answer the most challenging calls in the most dangerous elements on earth – air, fire and water.
In August, Deadline reported that triple-Oscar winner Meryl Streep was poised to join Oscar-winner Jeff Bridges in ‘The Giver,’ the adaptation of Lois Lowry’s Newbery-winning dystopian children’s book. Philip Noyce, who shot ‘Mary & Martha’ and ‘Catch a Fire’ in South Africa, is directing The Weinstein Company and Walden Media coproduction, which is expected to shoot for eight weeks, beginning in October 2013. Jeff Bridges in ‘Crazy Heart’
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Dolph Lundgren in ‘The Expendables’
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IN PRODUCTION ‘Chappie’ ‘District 9’ and ‘Elysium’ director Neill Blomkamp is shooting ‘Chappie’ for Sony Pictures, for release in March 2015. According to Deadline, ‘Chappie’ is the story of the titular robot (Sharlto Copley) with artificial intelligence that is stolen by a pair of gangsters (Die Antwoord’s Ninja and Yoland Vi$$er). Uncle Morris is rumoured to be the production company.
‘One’ Enigma Pictures is shooting ‘One’ for Australian director Murali Krishna Thalluri. Deadline describes it as “racially fueled post-apocalyptic adventure as seen through the eyes of a 26-year old girl. She is the hope of her world, yet holds fundamental doubts about whether she can live up to this daunting task.” Ninja and Yolandi Vi$$er from Die Antwoord
‘Lady Grey’ Peter Sarsgaard is starring in ‘Lady Grey,’ a French-South Africa co-production directed by Alain Choquart (‘Julie Lescaut’), which is expected to start shooting in November in KwaZulu Natal. The story revolves around a Catholic Mission station dealing with its past as it transitions into the new South Africa.
‘The Englishman’ In August, ‘Variety’ reported that John Moore (‘A Good Day To Die Hard’, ‘Behind Enemy Lines’) is expected to direct ‘The Englishman’ in South Africa in early-2014. The screenplay by William Wisher (‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’) is based on Will Scully’s book Once a Pilgrim: The True Story of One Man’s Coverage Under Rebel Fire about a Special Air Service regiment evacuating civilians during a military coup in Sierra Leone.
‘Black Sails’ ‘Black Sails’ is the story of Captain Flint and his pirates, twenty years prior to Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic ‘Treasure Island.’ It’s expected to be back at Cape Town Film Studios for a second season with Film Africa around November 2013. The first season only premieres on Starz in January 2014, so its early renewal is a big show of confidence in the series.
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INDUSTRY MOVES South African Short, ‘Minesh’, officially selected for 70th Venice Film Festival
‘Felix’ Selected for International Film Festivals ‘Felix’, the feel-good South African family film, has been selected for the 57th BFI London Film Festival and named one of the top 11 film festivals in the world by The Guardian last year. ‘Felix’ has also been selected for three other major international film festivals: Vancouver International Film Festival in Canada, Frankfurt’s Lucas International Children’s Film Festival, and The Hamburg FilmFest in Germany. “The programmer saw ‘Felix’ at Durban International Film Festival, where we won the Audience Award for Best Film, and called me about the wonderful audience response,” says director Roberta Durrant. “Being selected for Britain’s premier film festival is a huge honour and hopefully we’ll be able to announce a cinema release in London soon.” Roberta, a South African Film and Television Award Lifetime Achievement winner, was the creative producer on the International Emmy-nominated TV series ‘Home Affairs’, ‘Stokvel’ and ‘Sokhulu & Partners’, but ‘Felix’ is the first feature film script she has chosen to direct. Shirley Johnston’s screenplay won Sithengi’s Writer’s Forum Award; was a finalist in the US Specscriptacular Competition; and reached the quarterfinals
of both Francis Ford Coppola’s American Zoetrope Screenplay Contest and the Moondance Screenwriting Competition. Felix boasts a number of firsts for the South African film industry. It’s the most female-empowered film since South Africa’s democracy, with a female director, writer, editor (Maryke Kruger), cinematographer (Natalie Haarhoff), line producer (Kate Schalk), art director (Surisa Surisa), wardrobe stylist (Ayesha Khatieb) and hair and make-up artist (Islyn Goliath). It’s the first film fully financed by Sabido Productions, the production arm of Sabido Investments, a South African media group with holdings in a variety of broadcasting, content and production businesses, including e.tv, e.Sat, YFM and Cape Town Film Studios. And it’s also the first South African feature film for Johannesburg-born Oscar nominee Dame Janet Suzman; the first film for South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) Best Actress winner Linda Sokhulu (‘Isidingo’); and the first lead for Hlayani Junior Mabasa, cast in the title role from over 500 auditions across South Africa. Fleur du Cap winners Andre Jacobs and Nicholas Ellenbogen co-star.
Short film ‘Minesh’, written and directed by Shalin Sirkar of Chalia Films has been selected into the Orizzonti Short Films Competition of the 70th Venice Film Festival. The film highlights the psychological plight of children who are exposed to domestic violence. Shot in Kylemore, a small rural community outside of Stellenbosch, South Africa, the film tells the story of Minesh (6), played by Tristan De La Cruz. When Minesh sees his father assaulting his mother, he is shocked, afraid and runs away. ‘Minesh’ is a South African-GermanDanish co-production, with Producers, Karl Baumgartner and Thanassis Karathanos of Pallas Film, (Germany), Peter Aalbæk Jensen of Zentropa Entertainment, (Denmark) and Shalin Sirkar of Chalia Films, (South Africa). A Penguin Films production for Sabido Productions, distributed by Crystal Brook Distribution, ‘Felix’ will be in 40 cinemas across Southern Africa on 13 September, 2013.
INDUSTRY MOVES
‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ Premiers at Toronto Film Festival
‘Priyanka Chopra’ by Rogan Ward
SAIFTA Awards The South African India Film & Television Awards (SAIFTAs) were held in Durban in September before an audience of South African and Indian filmmakers, actors and fans. The backers, The Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal and Durban Tourism, shared the platform at the stylish awards, which are the brainchild of SAIFTA creative director, Kedhar Gawde. In his speech, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal chairperson, Sadha Naidoo, said “A vision has just been born.” Fans screamed wildly at the Durban ICC red carpet arrival, which saw some of Bollywood’s hottest stars and local actors like Jack Devnarain, Robert Whitehead, Latoya Mangezi, Donnalee Roberts and Mutodi Neshehe, make their entrance. The most popular arrivals were those of Bollywood actors John Abraham, Siddharth Malhotra, dancing queen Madhuri Dixit, cohost Dia Mirza and former Miss World and highest-paid Bollywood actress, Priyanka Chopra. A highlight was the special lifetime achievement ‘Madiba’ award bestowed on Nelson Mandela and accepted by his granddaughter, Ndileka Mandela, from veteran actress, Waheeda Rehman. Afrikaans film ‘Die Wonderwerker’ and TV Series ‘7de Laan’ won ‘Best Film’ and “Best TV Show” for the Awards competition. Craig Strydom accepted a special award
for ‘Searching for Sugar Man’ which won “The Documentary that Brought the Most Recognition to South Africa.” Muthodi Nesheshe won the ‘Best Film Actor’ award for his part in ‘Little One’ and ‘Best TV Actor’ title went to Robert Whitehead for his role as Barker Heyns in ‘Isidingo’. ‘Best Actress Award’ went to Lindiwe Ndlovu (for her role in ‘Little One’) and ‘Best TV Actress’ was Baby Cele for her role in ‘Zabalaza’. The direct and indirect economic impact of the inaugural SAIFTA event on KwaZuluNatal is expected to exceed R80 million, however an economic impact analysis study is yet to be finalised. The media coverage which includes television programmes beamed around the world, is valued at R700 million. Mr Desmond Golding, Head of Department, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism, commented, “This evening marks a major step in positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a film capital. We launched the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission to facilitate film production in the province and tonight proves the value of SAIFTA as a means of attracting top directors and producers to shoot their films in our province. For example, Mukesh Bhatt, who has never filmed an entire film in Durban before, indicated his intention to do so, now that he will have the support of the KZN Film Commission.”
‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival on in September. The film received an eight minute standing ovation at the Festival’s Gala, resulting in social media platforms buzzing with praise for the film. The film had a sell-out second screening in the 2 000-seater Princess of Wales Theatre. Producer Anant Singh said, “we could not have wished for a better launch at a Film Festival, especially with the audience and critics so unanimously positive. Bringing ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ to the big screen has been an almost as long as long as the time Madiba spent in prison. I am delighted that I finally got it done. It has been worth the wait and also worth all of the hard work that went into it over all of those years. It was also great to have Lindiwe, Terry, Riaad, Deon together with Idris and Naomie in Toronto.” Singh began communication with Mr. Mandela while he was still in prison and acquired the rights to the autobiography in 1996. ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ is the only motion picture to have the authorization and endorsement of Mr. Mandela and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the body which is the custodian of Mr Mandela’s legacy. ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ will have its first commercial release in South Africa and will thereafter be released worldwide.
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OPPORTUNITIES
Call for Applications for IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics 2014
International Film Festival Rotterdam
welcomes applications for the 16th IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics taking place during its 43rd edition (22 January – 2 February, 2014). The deadline is 1 November. International Film Festival Rotterdam supports film making, film producing and journalistic talent on several levels: the main festival section ‘Bright Future’ (including competitions for both features and shorts) presents recent works by first and second time filmmakers; Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals Fund contributes to film projects in developing countries and co-production market CineMart organizes a trainee project for young film producers (Rotterdam Lab) in close collaboration with its partner organizations. Recognizing the important role of film criticism to the perception of independent cinema, IFFR organizes a trainee project for young film critics. Project description The IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics is a talent development program that offers up to three young (under 30 years), motivated and talented professional film critics from outside The Netherlands a chance to travel abroad to cover a major international film festival, to get acquainted with the Rotterdam film festival in particular and the broad range of independent cinema it offers. Criteria for application • Age under 30 years • Fluent command of the English language (written and spoken) • Demonstrable experience in film criticism (print or online media) • Not yet established enough to profit from facilities as attending international film festivals outside your country • Have agreement(s) with relevant print and/or online media to publish reports on International Film Festival Rotterdam 2014 For further information, visit: www.filmfestivalrotterdam.comor e-mail
press@filmfestivalrotterdam.com.
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“America Meet World,” Global Comedy Competition for Comedians to Break into U.S. Market From 30 September through 8 November, 2013, comedians, filmmakers and comedy writers in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East are invited to submit their standup, sketch, satire or reality comedy videos to the competition for a chance to win a sit-down meeting with a top senior executive (TBA) in the U.S. entertainment industry. Through the combination of a public voting phase and a panel of expert judges five finalists will be selected to work with the Single Palm Tree production teams to further develop their videos for the U.S audience. Each of the five finalist’s final video will be unveiled at a major showcase event during the highly influential SXSW Festival (Austin, TX) in March 2014. The winning video submission will be determined based on which video has the most views after the SXSW showcase. Submissions will be accepted beginning 30 September through 8 November at www.americameetworld.com, where more information about the competition is also available. For more information, please visit singlepalmtree.com.
Camera Carriers By Camera Carriers
C
amera Carriers has focused on precision driving and camera tracking since 1997. Since we started in Cape Town, our name has become synonymous with creating camera cars, process trailers, and power tow rigs for a variety of moving shots. We have also set various records in twowheeling car-driving stunts. Our artistic and inventive approach to everything we achieve is inspired by our passion in everything we do, knowing what our customers want, and sharing this understanding. Our focus is on getting the job done, properly and with the passion we share, allowing us to deliver a final product we will all be proud of for a long time. Our range of vehicles includes stateof-the-art low loaders, camera cars, v8 tow vehicles, 4X4s and 6X6s, various trailers and an dropside truck. Our ongoing commitment and focus is our key to an outstanding success record in the film industry. We also design and manufacture stunt ramps, dollies, rigs and attachments in and around vehicles.
We have a selection of accessories available to facilitate you in getting the shot. • Steady Cam Rickshaw, mainly used for moving with a steady cam operator, backwards, through bush, or beach terrain, where with the soft suspension, a constant stable platform is maintained, also used in corridors, rooms and other indoor shots. • 4 Foot Base and 4 Way Leveller for various jib arm and vehicle mounts • 4 Way Levelling High Hat • 3 Way Leveller • Steel High Hats • Flat Spreaders • Various Elemac Risers • Various “ A “ Frames and Attachments • V.T. Monitoring Screens avalible for the driver Contact Louis Gouws for further information Mobile: +27 82 830 3003 Telephone: +27 21 556 4522 Email: info@cameracars.co.za
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EVENTS
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EVENTS
November October SHNIT INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
CAPE TOWN AND WINELANDS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 01 - 10 Nov Cape Town, South Africa
CAPE TOWN FILM MART
02 - 06 Cape Town, South Africa
04 - 06 Cape Town, South Africa
NEDBANK DIGITAL EDGE LIVE
DISCOP AFRICA
03 Johannesburg, South Africa
06 - 08 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa
AFRICA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
07 - 10 Cannes, France
10 - 17 Nov Calabar, Nigeria
DOCKANEMA
CAIRO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
13 - 22 Maputo, Mozambique
AFRICA IN MOTION FILM FESTIVAL 24 Oct - 03 Nov Glasgow, Scotland
19 - 26 Nov Cairo, Egypt
December
PHOTO & FILM EXPO
INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OF MARRAKECH
31 Oct - 03 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa
06 - 14 Dec Marrakech, Morocco
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Behind the scenes of Mankind, The History Channel © Joe Alblas
MIPCOM
ASSOCIATIONS
SAGA Theatre Discount for SAGA Members
New Venue and Dates Announced for AFCI Locations Show The Association of Film Commissioners International has announced that the 2014 Locations Show will take place at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Los Angeles, California, from 27 -29 March 2014. After two years in downtown Los Angeles, the Locations Show will move west to the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Century City. Organisers also announced that “after a highly positive response to the additional third day in 2013, we are pleased to announce that this will be repeated in 2014.” Between Los Angeles and Santa Monica, Century City is home to many industry firms and professionals, and Century Plaza is just a brief walk from Fox Studios, world-class shopping and restaurants. Organisers say that based on the overwhelming number of film commissions at the 2013 Show who expressed a preference for spring dates, the Locations Show will be in March instead of June. The organisers believe that this move will enhance the quantity and quality of both speakers and attendees, as April, May and June are very busy conference and festival times. Exhibitor registration will open on 15 October, 2013. If you have any questions, please contact Amy Thompson, Membership Manager, at amy@afci.org or +1-323-461-2324.
“
Pieter Toerien Productions... would like to recognize the importance of actors attending theatre on a regular basis by offering special deals to card-carrying SAGA members
“
AFCI
The Fugard Theatre, Cape Town
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The South African Guild of Actors says it “is aware of the fact that actors are notoriously penniless and any assistance is always welcomed. This is even more rewarding when it comes from theatre administrations. Pieter Toerien Productions (Monte Casino Theatre and Theatre on the Bay), Theatre on the Square (Sandton, Johannesburg) and the Fugard Theatre (District 6, Cape Town) would like to recognize the importance of actors attending theatre on a regular basis by offering special deals to card-carrying SAGA members. SAGA members will now only have to cough up a very reasonable R50.00 (R20.00 at Theatre on the Square) for access to theatre productions after display of a membership card. SAGA regards it as a vital part of any actor’s development to attend as many theatre productions as possible in order to learn from each other. The Guild welcomes this opportunity for enrichment at very affordable prices. Discounts are limited to one ticket per member and are subject to availability on the night.”
ASSOCIATIONS
‘The Croods’
NFVF South Africa’s Box Office Revenue Declined in the First Six Months of 2013 The National Film and Video Foundation has released a South African Box Office report for the first six months of 2013 that shows a 50% decline in revenue generated by films during this period. According to the report, the revenue at box office declined from R47 million recorded in the first half of 2012 to R23 million in the first half of 2013. The decline could be attributed to the country’s rising costs of living especially on items like food, petrol, and electricity which then had an adverse effect on domestic consumer spending. Since the beginning of this year, a total of 95 films have been screened at box office and 10 of these were local films. The majority of the films screened were from the United States of America (USA) with a total number of 60 films originating from that country. Performance of local films at box office has been generally poor compared to foreign films that continue to dominate the local exhibition chain and are very well received
‘Spud 2: The Madness Continues’
by the local audience. During the first six months of 2013, local films managed to secure only 6% of the total box office revenue compared to 11% last year. International films had 94% market share during the period under review. However there is a potential for the increased revenue for local films in the second half of the year given the list of films that are scheduled for release. The list includes South Africa’s second 3D animation feature, ‘Khumba’ which is expected to follow on the footsteps of ‘Adventures of Zambezia’ which was a huge success. The highest grossing film in terms of box office figures was ‘Fast and Furious’ with earnings of over R36 million followed ‘Iron Man 3’
with R32 million and ‘The Croods’ on the third position with R20 million. The only South African film that made it to the top 25 was ‘Spud 2: The Madness Continues’ with earnings of over R6 million. Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro remain the largest distributors in South Africa with a market share of 37% each during the first six months. Independent distributors continue to have a smaller share of the total box office pie, United International Pictures (UIP) HAD 23%, Indigenous Film Distributors accounted (IFD) for 2% and Cristal Brooke (SB) was sitting at only 1%. For a full South African Box Office Report for the first half of 2013, visit the NFVF website.
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DIRECTORY LISTINGS
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Fairbridges Attorneys
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Film Finances
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Media Film Services
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Spartan Truck Hire
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Value Logistics
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Visual Impact
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Wizardz
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copy@wizardz.co.za
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