Book Launch Tonight, Art Show coming up and a Networking Breakfast

A great book launch coming up tonight for Durban.

(Source - Adams Bookshop)

Look out for this Art Show coming soon:

For more info call: 072-229-6530 

(Source - Mwimbi Fine Art Gallery) 

Are you interested in business networking?  This might be for you:

(Source - Hirsch's) 

Film Review: Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom

Film: Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom
Cast: Idris Elba, Naomie Harris, Terry Pheto, Riaad Moosa, Jamie Bartlett
Director: Justin Chadwick
Cinema:  Cine Centre, Suncoast

This week I managed to see the new Mandela movie at the Premiere at Cine Centre.
It's an interesting movie.  Idris Elba (Thor: The Dark World) has a mountain to climb
with this role.  Possibly his biggest role.  He gives us great insight into the character of
Nelson Mandela.

The film features a who's who of South African cinema.  Look out for Jamie Bartlett as Mandela's prison guard.  Naomie Harris does a good job of showing us Winnie Mandela.  Tony Kgoroge plays Walter Sisulu very well indeed.  Riaad Moosa (Material) plays Ahmed Kathrada.

This film takes us on a tour of South African history and there is much detail in this movie.  From the old car licence plates to familiar cars from each time period.

Director Justin Chadwick (Bleak House) gives us a visual feast showing us how Mandela goes on this journey that eventually leads him to becoming the President of South Africa.

Worth a viewing.

Rating 7/10

Useful Links: www.mandelamovie.co.za

Facebook - MandelaMovie
Twitter - @MandelaMovie

View The Trailer Here:

(Source - Movieweb - YouTube)

Review by +Fred Felton

How To Become A Film Critic

Sometimes you happen to have some luck.  During the Durban International Film Festival 2013 I happened to sit in on a session with well known South African Film Critic Leon van Nierop.

He had some free time and decided to share his knowledge with the small group of writers who wanted to know all about being a film critic.

These were some of the tips he shared with us:

• Always remember the Director is trying to share something with you
• Don't tell the story, only write about 2 or 3 lines about it.
• A review should open the film up for debate and analysis.
• I never read reviews because it influences you.
• Never go into a cinema with preconceived ideas.
• The style of the film is so important
• A good film critic cannot be bought
• Be honest
• A good camera interprets
• You are working with peoples lives
• Your review must be eloquent and entertaining
• A review must be accessible
• Ask your audience 'What do you think?'  
• Make up your own mind about the film.
• What was the film trying to say?
• Does the director give you insight into the character's soul?
• Is the camera a character?
• Ask 'Why has a camera been placed there?' 
• Look at the music, how is it used?
• Look at the lighting, how is it used?
• Do they all work if so why?
• Do they all fail if so why?
• Watch lots of movies.
• Does the film communicate with me?
• Does it motivate me?  
• Does it entertain me?
• Know about the history of a film eg Superman
• Know the history of a genre
• Talk about the film afterwards with your friends

For those of you that were there it was a wonderful session.

What tips do you have to share on being a film critic? 

Article by +Fred Felton 

Related articles

• A conversation with Brazilian film critic Franthiesco Ballerini (part one)
• I love film writing.
• Film Criticism

Ster Kinekor Gateway Hosts Durban Premiere of Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom

Ster Kinekor at Gateway recently hosted the movie premiere for the much awaited, Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom film.

The film celebrates Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary journey from his childhood in a rural village to his election as president of South Africa. The film is an intimate portrait of the making of a modern icon.

Over 700 guests attended the event including producer, Anant Singh and the South African principal cast among whom were Tony Kgoroge (Walter Sisulu), Riaad Moosa (Ahmed Kathrada), Zolani Mkiva (Raymond Mhlaba), Terry Pheto (Evelyn Mase), Atandwa Kani (teenage Mandela) and Deon Lotz (Kobie Coetsee).

Film Star - Terry Pheto 

“We’re very proud to have co-hosted the Durban premiere of Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom. The film is amazing and is a beautifully told story of Mandela’s life and his experiences. Idris Elba, along with his fellow cast members, has done a great job in portraying Mandela as a man who values love, patience, trust and family – it’s an excellent portrayal of the book. I feel even prouder to be a South African after watching Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom. I’d also like to use this opportunity to congratulate Anant Singh and everybody who worked behind the scenes on a job well done,” says Akash Maharaj, Centre Manager at Gateway Theatre of Shopping.

The movie will be released at all Ster Kinekor cinemas on the 28^th of November 2013 while there will be paid sneak screenings on 23 and 24 November.

Look out for Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Facebook and Twitter.

(Source - Gateway) 

The Trailer for Mandela:  Long Walk To Freedom

(Source - YouTube - Movieweb)

Movie Review - Captain Phillips

Movie - Captain Phillips
Cast - Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Max Martini, Chris Mulkey
Screenplay - Billy Ray
Director - Paul Greengrass
Cinema - Cine Centre, Suncoast Casino

If one were to describe this movie in one word the word 'harrowing' comes to mind.
This is on the edge of your seat stuff.

Expertly directed by Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Ultimatum).

This man knows how to up the tension in a big way.

We join Captain Phillips (Tom Hanks) as he departs on his next ship.  Captain Phillips is the captain of one of those huge cargo ships that you see in the harbour.  This ship has to go down a dangerous route near Somalia where there are many pirates just waiting to attack the ships.

The ship is trailed by a Somali Pirate (Barkhad Abdi).  Great performance by him.
Eventually they catch up to the ship and board it.  The tension escalates as the U.S. Navy enters the fray and a SEAL team is brought in.

Look out for Max Martini (The Unit) as the U.S. Navy SEAL Commander.
There are some wonderful scenes in this movie and you leave the cinema in awe at the acting, writing and direction.

It is rumoured that Tom Hanks might just win the Oscar for his portrayal.
Based on what I saw I think he just might.

Rating 9/10

The Trailer

(Trailer - Sony - YouTube)

Review by +Fred Felton

Help ECR with their Toy Story Corporate Day

Today is the day to help out East Coast Radio with their Toy Story Corporate Day.
If you are a corporate dedicated to business in KZN see if you can help out.

There will be many celebrities and ECR DJ's on the phones today.
Some of the celebs include Deena Naidoo, Lisa Raleigh, Gangs Of Ballet, The Parlotones,
Damon Beard, Darren Maule, Makhozi Khoza, Abi Ray, Peter G, Megan Coleman and many more.

Call to pledge: 031-368-3603

Article and Images by +Fred Felton

Review Of The New Imax Theatre in Gateway & a review of Thor: The Dark World

There is a new Imax Theatre in Ster Kinekor, Gateway Shopping Centre, Umhlanga.

Last night I was invited to the launch of the new Imax Theatre in South Africa.
Opening in Ster Kinekor, Gateway Shopping Centre, Umhlanga, the evening was filled with wonderful food and drink, photo opportunities and a wonderful buzz in the air.

Ster Kinekor had especially set out a special theatre for their IMAX theatre.  Brand new seating and a huge screen.  I loved the attention to detail with a great space for your coldrink and popcorn.
The MC for the evening was Sureshnie Rider from 5FM and she had the audience laughing and taking selfies.
No matter where you sat you got the full experience of IMAX and it is an experience.

CEO of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: Fiaz Mahomed

Says Fiaz Mahomed, CEO of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: “We are confident that the time for IMAX® is now. We see its return as a wonderful opportunity for Ster-Kinekor to continue to deliver on its promise to bring the unrivalled power of the cinema experience to our audiences.

“The powerful IMAX® film slate will enable us to offer a wide selection of the world’s latest blockbuster titles from Hollywood and Bollywood, which is what our audiences expect to see on the massive IMAX screen. Bollywood films, in particular, continue to be an important focus market for us, particularly here in the greater Durban region,” commented Mahomed.

 “As Ster-Kinekor, we are focused on providing ongoing moments of ‘impact’ cinema – the element of surprise, launching new sites to reach more audiences, new digital technologies that continue to enhance the cinema experience, delivering a best-in-class online booking facility and providing more personal communication with customers via our various social media platforms. We need to ensure that our audiences keep coming back to enjoy more great moments, and launching this IMAX® theatre is the next evolution in our journey.”

Representing IMAX® at the Gateway opening was Giovanni Dolci, VP Theatre Development, EMEA at IMAX® Corporation, who stated: “We are delighted to welcome Ster-Kinekor to the IMAX® business and believe our partnership will not only raise our visibility in South Africa, but will also set the stage for further mutual growth opportunities in the region. 

“Our agreement with South Africa’s number-one exhibitor at the country’s number-one cinema complex represents the ideal scenario under which to establish IMAX®’s first commercial multiplex entry into the country. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Ster-Kinekor much success with this new venture, and we look forward to expanding our theatre network in South Africa,” stated Dolci.

On Friday, 08 November, the IMAX® theatre at Gateway will open with the international release, of Marvel’s latest superhero epic, Thor: The Dark World: An IMAX 3D Experience.

“Our role is to entice the consumer to watch a film as it was made to be seen – on the big screen. The IMAX Experience® will take this viewing proposition to the next level. With more than 25 full-length feature films expected for release in IMAX® during 2014, and the remainder of this year featuring big titles including Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Ender’s Game and The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, we are looking forward to what we believe is going to be a really big year for Ster-Kinekor,” concludes Mahomed.

Film Review - Thor: The Dark World: An IMAX 3D Experience

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Idris Elba

Director: Alan Taylor

This film marks the return of Thor as he battles to save the Earth and the Nine Realms.

This time Thor (Chris Hemsworth) fights to restore order across the cosmos.  An ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith return to plunge the universe into darkness.

Look out for a great performance by Idris Elba (Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom).

There are some amazing action scenes in this film.  Watching it in IMAX is truly a wonderful experience.  

You get a bonus point if you can spot Stan Lee in this movie.  

Remember not to leave when the closing credits pop up.  There is a nice surprise for you after the credits.  

Rating 9/10

The Trailer for Thor: The Dark World

For more information, visit www.sterkinekor.com. To find out about other exciting offerings and promotions, follow @SKTheatres on Twitter or on Facebook at Ster-Kinekor Theatres. You can also download the Ster-Kinekor app on any Nokia, Samsung Android, iPhone or BlackBerry handset for up-to-date information and to make bookings.

 To check out the IMAX launch on Twitter check out the hashtag #THOReality

(Images and quotes courtesy of Ster-Kinekor) 

Article and Review by +Fred Felton 

Book Launch in Durban and AFDA Festival and Shows

You are invited to the book launch of

The Land of Green Gold by Daryl O'Connor

This is a brief history of Natal and Zululand through the eyes of sugar farming pioneers.
Brought to you by Adams Bookshop, Musgrave Centre.

Date: 7 November 2013 at Adams Musgrave Centre.
5:30pm for 6pm.
Please RSVP to cedric@adamsbooks.co.za


(Source - Adams)

The AFDA (The SA School of Motion Picture Medium & Live Performance) DURBAN Campus would like to invite you to the 2013 AFDA Festival in FILM, TV and PERFORMANCE. This festival is an open exhibition of our student's course outcomes of short films, TV productions, stage productions and the musical performers original songs of 2013. This includes the top selected projects from our Durban first year group made in the second semester as well as 3rd and 4th (Honours) year films from our Johannesburg and Cape Town campuses. 

DATE | Sat 23 Nov 2013

TIME | 11am - late

VENUE | AFDA Durban Campus @ 2A Highdale Rd, Glen Anil

ENTRY | R20 once off to watch as many productions as you wish! (No pre-sales. All welcome.)

REFRESHMENTS | On sale eg. Popcorn, candyfloss, cupcakes, boerewors rolls, curry & rice, hamburgers, chips, cooldrinks etc plus a BAR for over 18's with a selection of beers, wine, ciders. Drinks with spirits served from 4pm only.)

Please visit www.afdafestival.com or the AFDA / AFDA Durban facebook pages, Facebook Festival Event or follow @AFDADurban on Twitter to get updates about the festivals.

If you have any questions about courses and/or would like to book an interview about the same, please do not hesitate to contact: Milena Gevers | 031 569 2252 | milenag@afda.co.za 

(Source - AFDA)

Mark Banks is Banksrupt!

The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 6 - 24 November 2013

South African comedy legend Mark Banks is back – and this time he is going for broke in his new one-man show Banksrupt! which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon theatre in Durban from 6 – 24 November

After several years of working on the biggest comedy line-up shows in South Africa, Banks makes a triumphant return. The legendary multi-purpose improviser and lighting speed anarchist just keeps getting better! The Royal Albert Hall, the Hammersmith Apollo and the PE Opera House are better off having hosted this iconic showman.

Banksrupt! has been years in the making and in consultation with two wise men, a babbling gnome and Kobus Wiese, the show promises to be his greatest comedy work yet.

The show, which is being produced by Whacked: Special Project, incorporates stand-up, sketch and video making it one that the world could not ignore.

Bookings through Computicket.

Mark Banks Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/mark.banks.official

Mark Banks Twitter: @markdotbanks

No under 16s

Blue Monday Platform

Catalina Theatre: Monday 11 November at 6pm

If you are a young artist who would like to utilise the stage, then this is your moment! And if you are keen to check out a variety of new acts – come and see what is bubbling under on the entertainment scene.

Blue Monday Platform is a forum to encourage young performing artists to explore, create and innovate. It is a platform that operates on a basic "open mic" theory where the Platform is yours for up to fifteen minutes. Participants can perform anything from poetry to rap, sketches to play excerpts, mime to music.

Blue Monday Platform is on a mission to change the perception of arts and get the youth back into theatre foyers, and also as a showcase for eventors, theatre managers and the public to see what is out there and available. The Blue Monday Platform is trying to make theatre universal, accessible and appropriate for all walks of life - and appealing and challenging to youth to engage with their culture.

Get involved in Blue Monday Platform for this seed of an experience. Entry is free and all are welcome. The bar is open, and it is a perfect opportunity for networking.

Where: Catalina Theatre, Wilsons Wharf
When: Monday 11 November
Time: 18h00

Entry: free and all are welcome

For more info: Radwinn on kzn@pansa.org.za / 074 272 7055

(Source - Publicity Matters) 

Theatre News, Internships, Auditions and Shows

NAF 2014 Fringe opens for applications

National Arts Festival 2014 Fringe opens for applications

The National Arts Festival, Grahamstown is now accepting applications for Fringe productions wanting to take part in the 2014 edition of the Festival.

The Festival will take place from 3 to 13 July 2014.

The National Arts Festival Fringe is unique in South Africa in that no selection criteria are applied – participation in the Fringe is open to everyone. The Fringe has mushroomed in size since its inception in 1979 when a diminutive 10 events comprised the Fringe – it now consistently boasts over 350 events across all the arts genres. Disciplines include children’s theatre, film, comedy, drama, physical theatre, dance, cabaret, visual art, performance poetry, music theatre, and the full scope of music genres.

“The 2014 edition of the Festival promises to be a particularly exciting one, with the 40th anniversary of the Festival coinciding with our country marking 20 years of democracy. As always, we’re looking forward to programming a diverse selection of productions, and we’re on hand to help with any queries that artists might have before the closing date,” Fringe Manager Zee Nweba said.

Application for the 2014 Fringe can be submitted, via the Festival’s website – www.nationalartsfestival.co.za from Thursday, 31 October. Interested artists, performers, directors and producers can also request application forms and information booklets from the Fringe Office by email - fringe@nationalartsfestival.co.za, telephone – 046 603 1103, or fax – 086 233 2119. The deadline for registration is Friday 17 January 2014.

EMPLOYMENT OPPURTUNITIES IN THE PERFORMANCE ARTS

RMB-supported BASA Intern programme

RMB-supported BASA Intern programme open for applications.

Now moving into its fifth year, the programme is designed to allow a new graduate the chance to immerse him or herself in all aspects of arts administration. The programme also allows the intern to identify their own learning goals and work towards those during the year that the internship runs.

Qualified applicants are invited to apply for the 2014 Business and Arts South Africa intern programme, supported by Rand Merchant Bank (RMB).

The Internship gives an emerging administrator the opportunity to access mentorship, grow in several administrative skill areas through training, and also drive projects, which provide synthesis between study and practice.

Mondli Mangenuke 2013 intern comments “One of my responsibilities at BASA was to produce and organise radio interviews for BASA Today show on Radio Today. This experience has enabled me to be highly organised and to work independently. “

“Assisting in the Mentorship Programme supported by Etana Insurance has also been one of the highlight of my experience. Working on this programme has equipped me with business strategies that will benefit me in the arts and media business.

The 2013 Business and Arts South Africa intern programme, supported by Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) selects interns based on their education, experience, and enthusiasm for the arts. The intern selected is expected to engage in the diverse projects that BASA is involved with, reports to the Marketing and Operations Manager, and works closely with the entire BASA team.

The closing date for applications is 22 November 2013.

Interested applicants should e-mail their CV and cover letter to: info@basa.co.za For more information call 011 447 2295.

Theatre Shows

Comedy:

 Mark Banks is Banksrupt!

The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 6 - 24 November 2013

South African comedy legend Mark Banks is back – and this time he is going for broke in his new one-man show Banksrupt! which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon theatre in Durban from 6 – 24 November

After several years of working on the biggest comedy line-up shows in South Africa, Banks makes a triumphant return. The legendary multi-purpose improviser and lighting speed anarchist just keeps getting better! The Royal Albert Hall, the Hammersmith Apollo and the PE Opera House are better off having hosted this iconic showman.

Banksrupt! has been years in the making and in consultation with two wise men, a babbling gnome and Kobus Wiese, the show promises to be his greatest comedy work yet.

The show, which is being produced by Whacked: Special Project, incorporates stand-up, sketch and video making it one that the world could not ignore.

Bookings through Computicket. Mark Banks Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/mark.banks.official Mark Banks Twitter: @markdotbanks

No under 16s

Auditions

“THE BLUE MONDAY PLATFORM!!!”

11 November 2013

Do you want to showcase your talent to many eyes that might help boost your career in the arts? Well, the Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA) brings you, 'The Blue Monday Platform'!

The Blue Monday Platform is, is an evening that gives performance artists an opportunity to showcase and demonstrate their craft and ability to key Performance Professionals that are active in the local industry and abroad.

All skilled and talented performers that want to break into the professional arena are welcome to audition in the following categories:

•           Writing

•           Directing

•           Acting

•           Singing/ Rapping

•           Dancing (All Genres)

•           Poetry

The blue Monday platform not only allows you to showcase your talent but gives you an opportunity to meet and network with other artists in the industry.

The Blue Monday platform is an exciting, eventful evening for the whole family, so bring your friends and support.

Date: 11 November 2013

Time: 6pm

Venue: Catalina Theatre. (Above Zacks restaurant at Wilson’s wharf)

If you're interested in participating, contact Mthokozisi Zulu at:

nkazi.zulu@gmail.com

kzn@pansa.org.za

031 201 4750

Zulu TV auditions

 Auditions will be held in Durban next month in search of Zulu TV presenters, actors and voice over-artists…

 Leading South African arts entrepreneur Mbongeni Ngema has announced that his company, Committed Artists, is to hold auditions to find presenters, actors and voice-over artists for his new Zulu TV channel, which will be launched early in 2014, in partnership with the King Zwelithini Foundation. 

 Zulu TV will be flighted throughout sub-Saharan Africa from 22 January 2014 via a new satellite that has been launched into space by SENTECH.  

The auditions in search of Zulu TV presenters, actors and voice-over artists will be held at KZN Music House, 1 Derby Street corner Igcuce (Epsom) Road, Greyville in Durban, on Saturday 16 November 2013 between 10 am and 5pm.

 Those interested in auditioning must be conversant in isiZulu and English. Qualified radio and TV announcers and actors of all race groups as well as aspiring raw talent will be considered for auditions.

 It is essential to book a slot in order to secure an audition. Call 031-309 8159 (office hours between 9am and 5pm) or email av@committedartists.co.za to book an appointment.

 KZN-based Zulu TV will begin shooting programmes in December 2013. Primarily an entertainment channel, Zulu TV aims to screen high quality programmes in High Definition format, with a strong emphasis on local productions. In addition to music programmes, content will include coverage of heritage, tourism, arts and culture, lifestyle, magazines programmes, as well as musical theatre, drama, sitcoms, movies, short films, documentaries, religion and current affairs, with internet link up through social networking.

(Source - Pansa) 

Wedding Bells for popular East Coast Radio DJ

There’s a good reason why East Coast Radio’s Abi Ray refuses to come down to earth. Life is pretty good up on cloud 9!

The vivacious DJ, who presents The Pulse on ECR every weekday evening from 6pm, is a step away from walking down the aisle. Abi’s partner David Rama popped the question over the weekend!

The couple met through a mutual friend seven years ago and have been dating for over three years.

Throwing out her trademark infectious laugh, Abi describes how David sat with the engagement (which she helped design) for ten whole months.

“It became a running joke,”she says. “He was taking his own sweet time about it so I’d ask,  ‘What are you waiting for?!’ “

Abi says when she had waited for nine months for David to pop the question , she decided to prank him and say “No” when he did ask her to spend the rest of their lives together.

But of course that was the furthest thing from her mind when David presented her with the designer sparkler over the weekend.

“We were at home and he started off by playing our two very special songs. When I wanted to know why, he presented me with the ring. My initial reaction was, ‘Really?!?’and then I burst out crying.”

The happy couple plan to tie the knot before autumn next year. They are planning a small, intimate wedding “somewhere near the mountains” with a handful of close friends and family.

And yes, Abi has already mentally designed her perfect wedding gown for when she marries her Prince Charming. She wouldn’t give anything away other than say it will be “feathery and flowy.”

“I am really overjoyed that David asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. I’m completely mad about him and completely in love. And the two of us could not be happier!”

(Source - East Coast Radio)