Elelwani to open film fest

Directed by Ntshavheni wa Luruli and produced by Florian Schattauer, "Elelwani" deals with the collision of modernity and traditionalism, through an updated, magical realist take on the very first and much loved Tshivenda novel of the same name.

Against a backdrop of startling primary colours and rich ochre hues, young Elelwani - played by Florence Masebe - must negotiate her transition into fully-fledged womanhood amidst the conflicting flows of rigidly patriarchal cultural protocol, and opportunities that may offer her a chance to grow in new ways, but that will sever her from her roots.

According to Luruli, who regards this as a very personal project, "Elelwani" is the first Venda feature film, in Tshivenda language. It is about a progressive young woman growing up in the new South Africa, trying to shed her cultural past but later realising its value; that the past is still relevant in dealing with the present, including the future.

With a radiantly fresh African aesthetic, and warmly dark historical undercurrents, "Elelwani" sets the tone for the following ten days of cinematic excellence at the festival. Running from 19 to 29 July, the film festival will offer over 250 screenings, most of which are premières in this country.