Aspiring filmmakers hatch from incubator

The initiative is MultiChoice's CSI initiative and the Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking was appointed as the service provider for this project. The aim of the film incubator is to nurture and develop talent from disadvantaged communities, teaching them theoretical and practical outcomes based exercises and workshops.

The learners also got to learn about how to do research, write proposals, scriptwriting, production processes, administration, production accounting, directing, camera, sound, lighting, and editing. They also filmed short format experimental pieces.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the CEO of MultiChoice Nolo Letele said, MultiChoice identified Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking to assist in developing and advancing training programmes for individuals who are already in the industry, who have the passion and enthusiasm for film making.

“The television and film industry in South Africa is growing in leaps and bounds due to the hard work and commitment of a lot of people in the industry. The local industry is receiving an increased international recognition; the young men and women you see graduating here today are joining the talent and creative world of film making where the standard of storytelling is constantly improving.”

Intake process

In addition to the teaching, the programme also includes on the job training by industry mentors from various production houses including M-Net. Applicants need to be at entry level in the industry and have demonstrated passion for film making.

Vivacious Connie Mosegedi, head of student liaison at Big Fish says that, as its name suggests, the Film Talent Incubator offers an environment that nurtures and enables the development of both creative and technical skills.

“It's an interactive full-time 24-week programme that also ensures after graduation that individuals are equipped with the necessary management and entrepreneurial skills that will empower and enable them to develop and manage a television or film business,” says Mosegedi.

MultiChoice through its external communications manager says they have made plans to continue with the incubator programme next year, however, the commencement date has not been decided yet.

“You've got to have a dream and must come from a disadvantaged background to be accepted into the Film Incubator programme. While talent is crucial, most of all you must have tenacity and be committed to fulfilling your dream of a career in the film and broadcast industry,” says corporate general manager for MultiChoice Jackie Rakitla.

“There is a diverse talent pool of promising television and film makers who have not previously had the means or opportunity to hone the skills required to excel in this highly competitive industry. The Film Talent Incubator is one of our most exciting CSI initiatives because it allows us to contribute towards the promotion of local ‘content development' in a meaningful and sustainable way,” says Rakitla.

Student awards

Nine participants were awarded with certificates for their work in four films: Invisible Pain, Scars, Painted Black and Valuable Ones. According to a press release, they thrilled the panel of judges because of their exceptional quality, creativity and high standards.

The best producer award was awarded to Unathi Ndiki, for her work she produced in Painted Black. Best director award went to Painted Black's Sibusiso Mngomezulu. The best camera award was awarded to Nduduzo Shandu, Painted Black. Best sound has been awarded to Tsholofelo Monare, Scars. Best editing goes to Painted Black's Matala Maranyane. Best production is awarded to the production team behind the Valuable Ones' Pamela Sebigi, Thabang Moqobai, Pumeza Ndzobongo and Luyanda Mvubu.