Entertainment
Rustenburg Film Festival shines spotlight on Roodepan─── CASEY-LEE ANTHONY 09:57 Fri, 01 Nov 2024
The recently premiered “Boeta Kom Huis Toe” has been nominated in the category for best director at this year’s Rustenburg Film Festival.
Written and filmed in Kimberley, it’s also local actors who portray the real-life struggles within their community. Challenges faced by the youth, single parenthood, unemployment, and redemption are featured in the full-length film.
“I hope to inspire conversation, healing and change, every character, every scene is a piece of someone’s reality, and I hope that people will appreciate the story,” said director, Eric Kok.
On-scene directing by Erik Kok, Picture supplied
The esteemed director has directed and produced two short films, two feature films, and one documentary, all of which were done after graduating in 2016.
To date, Kok has won five awards for feature films produced at the Thokoza Film Festival and hopes to add more with his latest work.
“It was not easy making this film, so it truly feels amazing that my hard work is being recognised.”
Scene from the movie. Picture supplied
The film will be brought to audiences throughout the country, starting at the Rustenburg Film Festival.
The idea for Boeta Kom Huistoe came about in 2019, however, it only materialised in 2023, when Kok wrote the script the night before he had to submit it.
“The script was amended a couple of times due to changes in budget, as well as shooting locations.”
Directing on scene. Picture supplied
The exclusive red-carpet premiere was held in Kimberley at the William Humphreys Art Gallery on Friday (25/10). “Close to 90% of the guests showed up. The support and the response from the audience was just overwhelming and amazing,
“Many of them were left speechless at the end when the credits were rolling and remarked about the acting, directing and music, which moved many to tears.”
"Through my work, I try to challenge the stereotype of coloured people and what Eric has portrayed is so relatable, it drew me to tears," said one of the supporters, Junior Oliphant.
For a wider reach, plans are afoot to get Boeta Kom Huis Toe to broadcasters and streaming platforms.
The Rustenburg Film Festival runs from 6 to 10 November to celebrate the art of storytelling.
