The revelation that local broadcaster CNBC Africa has been getting around R25-million a year from the Gauteng government almost went unnoticed by the local press. Question is, what kind of information have they been feeding us since they launched?
It has emerged in the last week that CNBC Africa, the business channel launched in June 2007 as a local offshoot of the respected CNBC brand – whose owner is the giant US network NBC Universal, one-time home of such journalistic luminaries as Tim Russert and Tom Brokaw – has been receiving US$3-million a year from the Gauteng government.
The above was revealed in a relatively innocent looking press release put out by the South African Screen Federation (Sasfed) on Sunday March 28, which stated in telegraphic syntax that the organisation “supports termination of CNBC contract with Gauteng Film Commission”.
In early November last year, apparently, Sasfed “expressed concern on (sic) a report they had received that three million US dollars of the [Gauteng Film Commission’s] annual budget committed to broadcaster CNBCA each year by way of a five year MOU, (signed by Paul Mashatile, the former MEC for the Department of Economic Development) that has already been in place for two of these years.”
That a so-called independent broadcasting channel has been funded to the tune of around R50-million by the provincial government seemed odd to The Daily Maverick, so on Monday we approached Gary Alfonso, CNBC Africa’s chief executive, for a statement as to the release’s veracity.
“No comment,” said Alfonso. “Leave it at that. It’s the normal course of events, it’s business. So no comment this side.”
Marc Schwinges, an independent film producer and Sasfed’s head of communication, was more willing to speak. According to Schwinges, before Sasfed raised the issue nobody had questioned the legitimacy (or otherwise) of the payments. “The GFC started a film-friendly investment initiative,” Schwinges informed us, “and they asked Sasfed to endorse the campaign. We were happy to, but we raised concerns about the CNBC payments. They were shocked we knew about the contracts.”
The understanding of Schwinges is that Mashatile, while he was in the employ of the Gauteng provincial government, allocated funds to the GFC on the basis that around half those funds be forwarded to CNBC Africa. The Daily Maverick’s sources have not disputed these claims.
Why then, in Schwinges’s estimation, were the CNBC payments made?
“That’s a very good question. Nobody has given me an answer to it. It doesn’t make sense, there’s no reason. It certainly doesn’t build an independent film industry.”
It should be noted here, perhaps, that the GFC’s mandate as per their website is to promote the growth of the film AND television industries in Gauteng, and that CNBC Africa clearly falls into the latter camp.
That said, the five-year contract with CNBC Africa has now been cancelled by the current Gauteng economic development MEC, Firoz Cachalia, because – as Cachalia’s spokesman told the Business Day on Tuesday – the “MEC received a legal opinion that this contract was entered into contrary to the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act.”
Although the GFC’s senior marketing manager Jacques Stoltz confirmed the contract’s cancellation to The Daily Maverick, he was not prepared to offer comment as to why the deal was struck under the previous MEC. “The Sasfed press release relates to a conversation between the [current] MEC and Sasfed,” said Stoltz. “We were not part of that conversation.”
Schwinges, who stressed during the telephonic interview that he “only has good things to say about the GFC,” also expressed his concern about a rumour that the GFC’s budgets were soon to be cut – it’s one of the reasons, he said, that Sasfed issued the release.
Significantly, in a brief discussion with The Daily Maverick, award-winning local film producer Rehad Desai referred to the budget cuts as a fait accompli. “The decision of [Cachalia] to scrap the contract was absolutely correct. Why the GFC was doing it in the first place leaves me dumbfounded. But at the same time the slashing of the funds is equally distressing. We’ve gained on the one hand and lost on the other.”
Which leaves the story at a difficult juncture.
For starters, there’s the unfortunate question of what the GFC, which has been instrumental in growing (as it puts it) “a sustainable audiovisual industry” in the province, is going to do to ameliorate the situation and persuade the province that it needs its full funds back.
Then there’s the question of CNBC Africa itself. A cloud now hangs over the editorial integrity of the broadcaster, whether it admits to it or not.
A number of The Daily Maverick’s sources have pointed to the relationship between former Minister in the Presidency Essop Pahad and CNBC Africa co-founder Rakesh Wahi. It may be remembered, in connection with this observation, that the key interview on CNBC Africa’s launch night in June 2007 was with President Thabo Mbeki. Those were tough months for the former president, his Machiavellian war with Jacob Zuma was approaching the final battle, and he wasn’t saying much to the press – and yet his minions were so pleased with the CNBC Africa appearance that a transcript was posted to the official website of the presidency.
Juxtapose this, if you will, against the 2007 story involving CNBC (United States) anchor Maria Bartiromo, who brought the journalism ethics of her organisation into question when it was revealed by the New York Times, New York Post and Wall Street Journal that she flew on a corporate jet belonging to Citigroup. According to USA Today, reporting a few days after the story broke, “CNBC defended the flight as an opportunity for Bartiromo to develop sources and said Bartiromo received advance approval and that CNBC reimbursed Citigroup for the flight.”
Of course the cost of a trip on a corporate jet, while expensive, is nowhere near the US$6-million the Gauteng government has given CNBC Africa. One wonders, therefore, whether the CNBC bigwigs in the New Jersey headquarters are aware of what’s gone on in South Africa – and if they are, whether they’ve thought about reimbursing the province.
Either way, since that interview with Mbeki, many of CNBC Africa’s drawcard names have left the broadcaster, including Nikiwe Bikitsha and Peter Ndoro (who, aside from being a news anchor, was also the channel’s head of corporate communications). Perhaps these seasoned journalists knew something, perhaps not. The fact remains that the channel is now much weaker editorially than it was when it launched.
And to add insult to injury, with the loss of the US$3-million-a-year GFC contract, CNBC Africa is in an unenviable financial position. Their targets, according to insiders, have been sitting at around R100-million a year, against revenues (inclusive of the GFC receipts) of R70-million.
Will it be a tragedy if the cancellation of their government grant sinks them? For the remaining CNBC Africa employees, certainly; for viewers who value independent journalism above happy presidents, maybe not.
By Kevin Bloom
Read more: Gauteng Film Commission, Business Day, Bartiromo story in USA Today
Wednesday 31 March, 2010
To read story on the The Daily Maverick site click here.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Encounters call for entries submissions deadline extended to 14th April 2010
Call for Entries to the 12th ENCOUNTERS SOUTH AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL 2010
12-29 August 2010
The organisers of ENCOUNTERS, the annual South African International Documentary Festival, are calling for entries from South African and International filmmakers for 2010 the 12th edition of the festival.
ENCOUNTERS will show a selection of documentary films from around the world, with a particular focus on South African work.
Filmmakers must guarantee, should their film be selected, that permission from the rights holder is secured for a minimum of four screenings at this Festival.
The deadline for submissions is 14th April 2010
Encounters is the only South African distributor dedicated to distributing documentaries to the South African public. Encounters promote and sell films to television, through DVDs and in cinemas.
For additional information feel free to contact Nazeer Ahmed at distribution@encounters.co.za
Best regards,
The Encounters Team
12-29 August 2010
The organisers of ENCOUNTERS, the annual South African International Documentary Festival, are calling for entries from South African and International filmmakers for 2010 the 12th edition of the festival.
ENCOUNTERS will show a selection of documentary films from around the world, with a particular focus on South African work.
Filmmakers must guarantee, should their film be selected, that permission from the rights holder is secured for a minimum of four screenings at this Festival.
The deadline for submissions is 14th April 2010
Encounters is the only South African distributor dedicated to distributing documentaries to the South African public. Encounters promote and sell films to television, through DVDs and in cinemas.
For additional information feel free to contact Nazeer Ahmed at distribution@encounters.co.za
Best regards,
The Encounters Team
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Killing of the Imam - Short animated film screening on SABC 2
In 1969, Imam Abdullah Haron was incarcerated and killed In detention under the terrorism act of 1967 in Cape Town, South Africa. His was one of the early deaths in detention during Apartheid’s dark days.
During the 60s Imam Haron became more active and began traveling abroad to raise funds for impoverished families back home. It was during this period that the notorious security police began to keep and eye on him.
This short film forms part of a feature length documentary on the Imam (due August 2010) and mixes animation, documentary and archive to look at the last few years of the Imam's life and death, told through the eyes and imagination of a young boy.
This film is part of the Ikon South Africa 2010 "Sign of the times" series.
During the 60s Imam Haron became more active and began traveling abroad to raise funds for impoverished families back home. It was during this period that the notorious security police began to keep and eye on him.
This short film forms part of a feature length documentary on the Imam (due August 2010) and mixes animation, documentary and archive to look at the last few years of the Imam's life and death, told through the eyes and imagination of a young boy.
This film is part of the Ikon South Africa 2010 "Sign of the times" series.
Khalid is DFA member and SASFED board member.
Story by BusinessDay: Cachalia cancels CNBC contract
by Sibongakonke Shoba Published: 2010/03/30 06:38:34 AM
Gauteng economic development MEC Firoz Cachalia. Photo: Sowetan
GAUTENG economic development MEC Firoz Cachalia has cancelled a 3m-a-year contract that international business channel CNBC Africa had signed with the Gauteng Film Commission (GFC).
Cachalia’s spokesman, Mandla Radebe. said the contract was terminated in January as part of a general review of contracts. “The MEC received a legal opinion that this contract was entered into contrary to the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act.”
The cash-strapped Gauteng government is reviewing all contracts in an attempt to cut costs and direct resources to new priorities such as education, health and job creation. The review has saved up to R8bn and the government said it could save an additional R3bn once the process is completed.
The CNBC Africa contract was entered into during Paul Mashatile ’s reign as MEC of economic development and when Mbhazima Shilowa was premier. This is not the first contract entered into on Mashatile’s and Shilowa’s watch that Cachalia has cancelled.
Earlier this month he announced that he would fork out R117,5m to cancel motorsport contracts.
According to a senior government source, the contract was entered into to entice CNBC Africa to be based in Gauteng.
It was expected that CNBC Africa would give the province exposure and that local film producers would benefit. “But it was not adding value,” said the official.
On top of the 3m a year, the economic development department was expected to encourage other departments to advertise on the channel to bring it revenue.
“The contract was biased against the department,” said the source.
Radebe said the contract with CNBC Africa was entered into by GFC CEO Tony Sauls in 2005, but was launched in 2007.
“This was a five-year contract and it guaranteed CNBC Africa revenue of 3m a year in the event that both the GFC and CNBC Africa are unable to attract sufficient advertising revenue agreed upon by the two parties,” said Radebe.
He said no amount was paid to CNBC Africa for the cancellation.
The South African Screen Federation (Sasfed) welcomed the termination of the contract, saying this money should be made available to Gauteng-based companies in the independent production sector.
“CNBCA does not act to promote local content production, especially in the independent production sector,” said Sasfed spokesman Marc Schwinges.
“Sasfed is heartened that such a large budget, has now been freed up within the GFC to the benefit of the Gauteng-based industry,” he said.
“We have no comment about that,” said CNBC Africa chief operating officer Gary Alfonso.
shobas@bdfm.co.za
To read artical on the BusinessDay site click here.
Gauteng economic development MEC Firoz Cachalia. Photo: Sowetan
GAUTENG economic development MEC Firoz Cachalia has cancelled a 3m-a-year contract that international business channel CNBC Africa had signed with the Gauteng Film Commission (GFC).
Cachalia’s spokesman, Mandla Radebe. said the contract was terminated in January as part of a general review of contracts. “The MEC received a legal opinion that this contract was entered into contrary to the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act.”
The cash-strapped Gauteng government is reviewing all contracts in an attempt to cut costs and direct resources to new priorities such as education, health and job creation. The review has saved up to R8bn and the government said it could save an additional R3bn once the process is completed.
The CNBC Africa contract was entered into during Paul Mashatile ’s reign as MEC of economic development and when Mbhazima Shilowa was premier. This is not the first contract entered into on Mashatile’s and Shilowa’s watch that Cachalia has cancelled.
Earlier this month he announced that he would fork out R117,5m to cancel motorsport contracts.
According to a senior government source, the contract was entered into to entice CNBC Africa to be based in Gauteng.
It was expected that CNBC Africa would give the province exposure and that local film producers would benefit. “But it was not adding value,” said the official.
On top of the 3m a year, the economic development department was expected to encourage other departments to advertise on the channel to bring it revenue.
“The contract was biased against the department,” said the source.
Radebe said the contract with CNBC Africa was entered into by GFC CEO Tony Sauls in 2005, but was launched in 2007.
“This was a five-year contract and it guaranteed CNBC Africa revenue of 3m a year in the event that both the GFC and CNBC Africa are unable to attract sufficient advertising revenue agreed upon by the two parties,” said Radebe.
He said no amount was paid to CNBC Africa for the cancellation.
The South African Screen Federation (Sasfed) welcomed the termination of the contract, saying this money should be made available to Gauteng-based companies in the independent production sector.
“CNBCA does not act to promote local content production, especially in the independent production sector,” said Sasfed spokesman Marc Schwinges.
“Sasfed is heartened that such a large budget, has now been freed up within the GFC to the benefit of the Gauteng-based industry,” he said.
“We have no comment about that,” said CNBC Africa chief operating officer Gary Alfonso.
shobas@bdfm.co.za
To read artical on the BusinessDay site click here.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Cape Winelands Film Festival Awards 2010
At the Awards celebration of the Cape Winelands Film Festival on 27 March 2010 the following Awards were presented by the International Film Festival Jury.
SHORT FILMS
Special Mention
Dance Macabre – Dir. Pedro Pirez
Best Short Film
Hammerhead – Dir. Sam Donovan
Best South African Short Film
Filho / Hidden Places - Dir Jamie Beron
DOCUMENTARY
Special Mention
Kentridge and Dumas in Conversation
Dir Catherine Meyburgh
Best Documentary
War Against the Weak – Dir Justin Strawhand
FEATURE FILMS
International Film Guide Inspiration Award
The Other Bank – Dir. George Ovashili
Best South African Feature Award –
Gugu and Andile - Dir. Minky Schlesinger
Grand Prix Award
Eyes Wide Open - Dir. Haim Tabakman
Special Mention
AUDIENCE AWARD
Master Harold…and the Boys - Dir Lonny Price
SHORT FILMS
Special Mention
Dance Macabre – Dir. Pedro Pirez
Best Short Film
Hammerhead – Dir. Sam Donovan
Best South African Short Film
Filho / Hidden Places - Dir Jamie Beron
DOCUMENTARY
Special Mention
Kentridge and Dumas in Conversation
Dir Catherine Meyburgh
Best Documentary
War Against the Weak – Dir Justin Strawhand
FEATURE FILMS
International Film Guide Inspiration Award
The Other Bank – Dir. George Ovashili
Best South African Feature Award –
Gugu and Andile - Dir. Minky Schlesinger
Grand Prix Award
Eyes Wide Open - Dir. Haim Tabakman
Special Mention
- Denise Newman for her searing performance in the title role of Oliver Hermanus’ Shirley Adams. She offers a moving account of a life that lies behind news stories about gang violence. Shirley Adams’ heroism is not the stuff of Hollywood filmmaking. There is no crusade against gun culture or a successful battle to stop the violence that is tearing communities apart. Her bravery lies in facing each day with the determination to survive it. Denise Newman presents us with the real face of motherhood; with the smallest of gestures that underpin her anguish and pain, she captures the spirit of a woman who will go to any lengths for her child and whose resilience knows no bounds.
- Heikki Nousiainen for conveying the frailty of age, in his role as a priest desperate to finding meaning, in Klaus Härö’s Letters to Father Jacob. When a blind priest opens his doors to an ex-convict, peace returns to his life as he can continue his communication with the outside world through letters to his parishioners. Heikki Nousiainen’s quiet performance subtly details the everyday existence of this private man who, as he comes to the end of his life, wants nothing more than to serve his god. It is a performance of grace and humility that befits such an involving story.
AUDIENCE AWARD
Master Harold…and the Boys - Dir Lonny Price
Saturday, March 27, 2010
SASFED supports termination of CNBC contract with Gauteng Film Commission
Recently the current MEC for for the Department of Economic Development, Firoz Caachalia , reported to a SASFED board member that contract with CNBCA has been cancelled, and went further to express the GFC would continue to enjoy government support.
SASFED is heartened that such a large budget, (reportedly half of the GFC's total annual budget) has now been freed up within the GFC to the benefit of the Gauteng based Industry. SASFED congratulates the GFC and the new MEC for negotiating the cancellation of this contract and looks forward to GFC re-doubling its efforts with the increased funds to assist in rebuilding the industry in the province. SASFED supports the development of provincial film commissions and offices, and is encouraged by provincial investment in this vital industry.
SASFED is The South African Screen Federation, representing the interest of film and television industry organisations as a collective federation.
Full SASFED Member Organisations: DFA - The Documentary Filmmakers Association / IPO - The Independent Producers Organisation / OSCA SA - The Official South African Casting Association / PMA - The Personal Managers' Association / SAGA - South African Guild of Actors / SAGE - South African Guild of Editors / WGSA - Writers Guild of South Africa / WIFTSA - Women in Film and Television SA / WOS - Women of the Sun
SASFED is also formally affiliated to: FEPACI - Pan African Federation of Film – Makers / SOS: Supporting Public Broadcasting / TVIEC - Television Industry Emergency Coalition
For more information please contact SASFED Communications - Marc Schwinges
Friday, March 26, 2010
Invitation to Oxfam International Workshop on Shooting Poverty & New Media Campaigning
Dear Colleagues,
You are cordially invited to an Oxfam International facilitated workshop on the use of film and new media in humanitarian campaigning. Please click here for attached invitation. The focus of this 2-hour workshop to be held both in Cape Town on 14 April and in Johannesburg on 16 April will be on:
Should you wish to participate in the event, please contact Nolucky Nxasana of Oxfam Australia. Kindly send your RSVP, including a completed form (see invitation) to Nolucky at noluckyn@oxfam.org.au (or fax 0866468447) by Monday, 29th March 2010.
I plan to attend the afternoon session in Johannesburg on 16 April. While acknowledging that the topic on film/new media may not be of interest to everyone, we do hope to see some of you there! Please do feel free to circulate to your colleagues who may be interested.
Many thanks and kind regards,
Marianne
You are cordially invited to an Oxfam International facilitated workshop on the use of film and new media in humanitarian campaigning. Please click here for attached invitation. The focus of this 2-hour workshop to be held both in Cape Town on 14 April and in Johannesburg on 16 April will be on:
- Shooting Poverty - A competition calling for film treatments that highlight the impact of arms trade and armed violence on development.
- New Media Campaigning - Oxfam is about to launch a new online platform aimed at enabling individuals, bloggers and organisations around the world to take action on a number of different humanitarian issues.
Should you wish to participate in the event, please contact Nolucky Nxasana of Oxfam Australia. Kindly send your RSVP, including a completed form (see invitation) to Nolucky at noluckyn@oxfam.org.au (or fax 0866468447) by Monday, 29th March 2010.
I plan to attend the afternoon session in Johannesburg on 16 April. While acknowledging that the topic on film/new media may not be of interest to everyone, we do hope to see some of you there! Please do feel free to circulate to your colleagues who may be interested.
Many thanks and kind regards,
Marianne
Thursday, March 25, 2010
The DFA partnering with prestigious AFRICADOC - South Africa - Documentary Scriptwriting Residency has extended the entry date to the 6th April 2010
DFA is a supporter of the first South African Documentary Scriptwriting Residency in Johannesburg from the 12th till the 24th of April 2010.
AFRICADOC itself is however not a new venture in French Speaking Africa, and has a proud history of success. This is its first venture into an English Speaking Territory and DFA is thrilled to be associated with the program.
The aim of Africadoc is to develop, together with all African countries, a training network to meet the needs of a new generation of documentary filmmakers, and to set up a network of professionals working in the documentary world.
The Closing date has been moved to the 6th April: Applications including the filled in form and the required documents (see list on form) must be sent by email and before 6th of April 2010 – midnight.
To read more click here.
AFRICADOC itself is however not a new venture in French Speaking Africa, and has a proud history of success. This is its first venture into an English Speaking Territory and DFA is thrilled to be associated with the program.
The aim of Africadoc is to develop, together with all African countries, a training network to meet the needs of a new generation of documentary filmmakers, and to set up a network of professionals working in the documentary world.
The Closing date has been moved to the 6th April: Applications including the filled in form and the required documents (see list on form) must be sent by email and before 6th of April 2010 – midnight.
To read more click here.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
From our friends at WoS - Last Thursday Showcase - tomorrow
It's that time of the month again and we look forward to seeing you there.
WoS Last Thursday Showcase
Brings you ‘DISCREET’ produced by ANEL ALEXANDER
Genre: Fiction (80min)
Time: 7:30pm
Date: 25 March 2010
Venue: The Lab (Market Theatre), Newtown
Q&A with Anel Alexander
Free Screening -Food provided - Cash bar
In a society that promotes sexual promiscuity and where true honesty is a rare commodity, Monique (a sex worker) and Thomas (the client) take the audience on a funny poignant and brutal journey of self-examination.
Honesty costs more…
‘This film ups the game with savvy dialogue considered performances and keen production values’ Tat Wolfen – Saturday Star
'…the director raises the bar for local film productions by turning in an elegant product...' Theresa Smith – The Star Tonight
WoS Last Thursday Showcase
Brings you ‘DISCREET’ produced by ANEL ALEXANDER
Genre: Fiction (80min)
Time: 7:30pm
Date: 25 March 2010
Venue: The Lab (Market Theatre), Newtown
Q&A with Anel Alexander
Free Screening -Food provided - Cash bar
In a society that promotes sexual promiscuity and where true honesty is a rare commodity, Monique (a sex worker) and Thomas (the client) take the audience on a funny poignant and brutal journey of self-examination.
Honesty costs more…
‘This film ups the game with savvy dialogue considered performances and keen production values’ Tat Wolfen – Saturday Star
'…the director raises the bar for local film productions by turning in an elegant product...' Theresa Smith – The Star Tonight
SASFED Statement to welcome IPO as member
The SA Screen Federation (SASFED) on behalf of all its affiliates welcomes the decision by the Annual General Meeting of the Independent Producers' Organisation (IPO) on 23 March 2010 to seek full member affiliation to SASFED. The IPO is a leading industry constituent organisation and will add much value to a unified industry standpoint through SASFED. SASFED looks forward to a dynamic working relationship with IPO and it's other affiliate members.
(See previous release as to new IPO Board / Resolutions)
A release from AGM meeting on the 23/03/2010 - Results of Voting
The following e-mail received from the IPO administrator, and pictures from Marc Schwinges.
It was good to see so many of you at the Annual General Meeting yesterday, many thanks for taking time out to attend.
The following people were voted on to the Executive Committee:
- Bridget Pickering
- Dan Jawitz
- Desiree Markgraaff
- Harriet Gavshon
- Levern Engel
- Lodi Matsetela
- Marvin Saven
- Portia Gumede
- Ramadan Suleman
- Rehad Desai
- Tendeka Matatu
- Zaheer Goodman-Bhyat
- Name Change: The option of a name change of the IPO - The majority voted against this.
- Changes to the Constitution: 1 Seat on the Executive Committee reserved for an IPO member nominated and voted for by paid up Individual Members only and 1 seat on the Executive Committee reserved for an IPO member nominated and voted for by Producer Members in categories a-d (turnover below R10 million). All other seats to be nominated and voted for by all paid up members - The majority voted in favour of this.
- SASFED Relationship: To become a Full Member of the South African Screen Federation - The majority voted in favour of this.
Kind regards,
Dionne Cronin
Independent Producers' Organisation (IPO)
TVIEC Meeting Saturday 27 March 3pm Goethe Institute
Important General TVIEC Meeting This Saturday
This is a reminder about the TVIEC meeting in Johannesburg on Saturday 27 March at 3pm at the Goethe Institute (119 Jan Smuts Avenue).
TVIEC members and all interested industry professionals: Please come and get involved in the fight for a stronger industry.
The purpose of the meeting is to report back on the TVIEC’s dealings with SABC and other stakeholders and to receive input from the industry. We need to consolidate and find a unified voice for the many campaigns and lobbies we will be engaged in this year.
Please inform any industry professionals you think will be interested.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: tvcrisis@gmail.com
Charl: 082-6813680
This update is written on behalf of the TVIEC (Television Industry Emergency Coalition) which consists of: IPO (Independent Producers Organization), SASFED (South African Screen Federation), TPA (The Producers Alliance), DFA (Documentary Filmmakers Association), WGSA (Writers Guild of South Africa) as well as CWU (Creative Workers Union).
This is a reminder about the TVIEC meeting in Johannesburg on Saturday 27 March at 3pm at the Goethe Institute (119 Jan Smuts Avenue).
TVIEC members and all interested industry professionals: Please come and get involved in the fight for a stronger industry.
The purpose of the meeting is to report back on the TVIEC’s dealings with SABC and other stakeholders and to receive input from the industry. We need to consolidate and find a unified voice for the many campaigns and lobbies we will be engaged in this year.
Please inform any industry professionals you think will be interested.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: tvcrisis@gmail.com
Charl: 082-6813680
This update is written on behalf of the TVIEC (Television Industry Emergency Coalition) which consists of: IPO (Independent Producers Organization), SASFED (South African Screen Federation), TPA (The Producers Alliance), DFA (Documentary Filmmakers Association), WGSA (Writers Guild of South Africa) as well as CWU (Creative Workers Union).
Thursday, March 18, 2010
A reminder about the DFA partnering with prestigious AFRICADOC - South Africa - Documentary Scriptwriting Residency
DFA is a supporter of the first South African Documentary Scriptwriting Residency in Johannesburg from the 12th till the 24th of April 2010.
AFRICADOC itself is however not a new venture in French Speaking Africa, and has a proud history of success. This is its first venture into an English Speaking Territory and DFA is thrilled to be associated with the program.
Founded in 2002 by French film producer and director Mr. Jean-Marie BARBE who, more than 20 years ago, created the festival “Les Etats Généraux du Film Documentaire de Lussas” in France, AFRICADOC is a programme for the development of African documentary cinema, led by a French association, Ardeche Images, together with local partners wherever Africadoc is already implemented.
The aim of Africadoc is to develop, together with all African countries, a training network to meet the needs of a new generation of documentary filmmakers, and to set up a network of professionals working in the documentary world.
CLOSING DATE: Applications including the filled in form and the required documents (see list on form) must be sent by email and before 06th of April 2010 – midnight.
To read more click here.
AFRICADOC itself is however not a new venture in French Speaking Africa, and has a proud history of success. This is its first venture into an English Speaking Territory and DFA is thrilled to be associated with the program.
Founded in 2002 by French film producer and director Mr. Jean-Marie BARBE who, more than 20 years ago, created the festival “Les Etats Généraux du Film Documentaire de Lussas” in France, AFRICADOC is a programme for the development of African documentary cinema, led by a French association, Ardeche Images, together with local partners wherever Africadoc is already implemented.
The aim of Africadoc is to develop, together with all African countries, a training network to meet the needs of a new generation of documentary filmmakers, and to set up a network of professionals working in the documentary world.
CLOSING DATE: Applications including the filled in form and the required documents (see list on form) must be sent by email and before 06th of April 2010 – midnight.
To read more click here.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
ZenHQ Films Screening Invite - DARFUR
Please click here to see ZenHQ Films invite to the South African premiere screening of DARFUR at the Cape Winelands Film Festival this Thurs March 18. On the heels of several international film festivals, including the US and Canada, DARFUR has been described as, “A powerful film that stays with you.”
Hope to see you there.
http://www.zen-hq.com
Hope to see you there.
http://www.zen-hq.com
Monday, March 15, 2010
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED 3rd TALENT CAMPUS DURBAN 23 - 27 July 2010 at the 31st Durban International Film Festival (22 July - 1 August 2010)
3rd TALENT CAMPUS DURBAN 23 - 27 July 2010
at the 31st Durban International Film Festival (22 July - 1 August 2010)
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
The 31st Durban International Film Festival (22 July - 1 August 2010) would like to announce the extension of the deadline for applications for the 3rd edition of Talent Campus Durban to Wednesday 17th of March, 24h00 GMT.
Please note that this deadline is for submission of Part 1 of the application, namely the completed application form. Part two of the application, the creative project sample, needs to reach us no later than Wednesday 24th March 12:00 GMT.
Talent Campus is an intensive 5-day programme of workshops and seminars delivered by film professionals to enhance both theoretical and practical approaches to filmmaking. The 3rd Talent Campus Durban theme Focusing on Africa: Unleashing Talent in 2010 will focus activities towards the development and strengthening of partnerships between African filmmakers.
Talent Campus Durban invites filmmakers from South Africa and the rest of the continent to apply to participate in these workshops and seminars, which take place in Durban, South Africa, over five days. In addition to specific activities offered by the Campus, the selected talents will have the opportunity to attend films and events at the 31st Durban International Film Festival.
Deadline for application: Wednesday 17 March 2010, midnight (Part 1), Wednesday 24 March 2010, 12 noon (Part 2)
Application forms can be accessed at: http://www.cca.ukzn.ac.za/talentdiff2010.htm
For further details:
Phone: +27 (0)31 260 2506/1367
Fax: +27 (0)31 260 3074
Email: talent@ukzn.ac.za or talent.durban@gmail.com
Talent Campus Durban is produced as a cooperation between the Durban International Film Festival and the Berlinale Talent Campus, and Berlin International Film Festival and is supported by the German Embassy in South Africa, the Goethe- Institut South Africa and the Department of Economic Development - KwaZulu-Natal.
The Durban International Film Festival is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts (UKZN) with principle funding and support from the National Film & Video Foundation, HIVOS and the City of Durban.
at the 31st Durban International Film Festival (22 July - 1 August 2010)
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
The 31st Durban International Film Festival (22 July - 1 August 2010) would like to announce the extension of the deadline for applications for the 3rd edition of Talent Campus Durban to Wednesday 17th of March, 24h00 GMT.
Please note that this deadline is for submission of Part 1 of the application, namely the completed application form. Part two of the application, the creative project sample, needs to reach us no later than Wednesday 24th March 12:00 GMT.
Talent Campus is an intensive 5-day programme of workshops and seminars delivered by film professionals to enhance both theoretical and practical approaches to filmmaking. The 3rd Talent Campus Durban theme Focusing on Africa: Unleashing Talent in 2010 will focus activities towards the development and strengthening of partnerships between African filmmakers.
Talent Campus Durban invites filmmakers from South Africa and the rest of the continent to apply to participate in these workshops and seminars, which take place in Durban, South Africa, over five days. In addition to specific activities offered by the Campus, the selected talents will have the opportunity to attend films and events at the 31st Durban International Film Festival.
Deadline for application: Wednesday 17 March 2010, midnight (Part 1), Wednesday 24 March 2010, 12 noon (Part 2)
Application forms can be accessed at: http://www.cca.ukzn.ac.za/talentdiff2010.htm
For further details:
Phone: +27 (0)31 260 2506/1367
Fax: +27 (0)31 260 3074
Email: talent@ukzn.ac.za or talent.durban@gmail.com
Talent Campus Durban is produced as a cooperation between the Durban International Film Festival and the Berlinale Talent Campus, and Berlin International Film Festival and is supported by the German Embassy in South Africa, the Goethe- Institut South Africa and the Department of Economic Development - KwaZulu-Natal.
The Durban International Film Festival is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts (UKZN) with principle funding and support from the National Film & Video Foundation, HIVOS and the City of Durban.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Mating Game – Press Release
Finally something new and local on our screens...
Last year saw an all time low for local production, as the SABC crisis ensured that local commissions ground to a practical standstill. For viewers this has meant endless repeats on TV. For the industry it has meant job losses and whole production houses going out of business.
In the midst of this, a new commission was shot in Johannesburg and airs on SABC2 from Thursday 11th March at 21.30. Finally we can look forward to something new and local on our screens.
The Mating Game is a 13 part drama series that takes an intelligent, but humorous look at the tricky terrain of modern romance and familial relationships.
Written from a feminist perspective by writer and producer Anita Khanna and set in Johannesburg, the series features three women,Grace (Maggie Benedict, Isidingo, Hard Copy 3), Roxanne (Renate Stuurman, The Lab) and Sara (Elma Postma, 7 de Laan) who are looking for love in a time and place where nobody’s quite sure whether the family model is monogamous or polygamous. Two of the three protagonists, all attractive, bright and independent women, have to make a choice between remaining single or trying to make things work with men who fail to deliver and are unwilling to get up to speed with feminism. The third is a lesbian, looking for a man to father her child. The series is highly contemporary and asks brave questions about partnerships in a world where men and women look to each other for emotional fulfilment yet no longer seem to be speaking the same language. Using humour, multifaceted characters and animal mating habits as motifs to make comment on human behaviours, The Mating Game offers both men and women the chance to recognize themselves on the screen and to laugh out loud at the debacle of modern relationships.
The production company behind the series is Uhuru Productions. Rehad Desai, CEO of Uhuru, executive producer of the show and board member of the South African Screen Federation, an industry body that is fighting to achieve a thriving film and television industry in South Africa, has this to say, “Despite the meltdown at the SABC we were able to have a relatively smooth production thanks to the professionalism of the SABC staff who we were fortunate to be working with. The stability allowed the producers to give full focus to the project which I believe is fully translated on to the screen.“
Also appearing in The Mating Game is Khabonina Qubeka (Rhythm City, The Lab 3, Muvango), Nathaniel Ramabulana (Justice for All, Jerusalema Entjha), Justin Strydom (Binnelanders, Snitch), Nick Boraine (Jozi, Hillside, Wild at Heart), and Khulu Skenjana (Jerusalema Entjha, Generations).
For further information or a full press pack, contact:
Anita Khanna
Writer/Producer
The Mating Game
anita@uhuruproductions.co.za
cell: 083 357 5904
www.uhuruproductions.co.za
www.3continentsfestival.co.za
Last year saw an all time low for local production, as the SABC crisis ensured that local commissions ground to a practical standstill. For viewers this has meant endless repeats on TV. For the industry it has meant job losses and whole production houses going out of business.
In the midst of this, a new commission was shot in Johannesburg and airs on SABC2 from Thursday 11th March at 21.30. Finally we can look forward to something new and local on our screens.
The Mating Game is a 13 part drama series that takes an intelligent, but humorous look at the tricky terrain of modern romance and familial relationships.
Written from a feminist perspective by writer and producer Anita Khanna and set in Johannesburg, the series features three women,Grace (Maggie Benedict, Isidingo, Hard Copy 3), Roxanne (Renate Stuurman, The Lab) and Sara (Elma Postma, 7 de Laan) who are looking for love in a time and place where nobody’s quite sure whether the family model is monogamous or polygamous. Two of the three protagonists, all attractive, bright and independent women, have to make a choice between remaining single or trying to make things work with men who fail to deliver and are unwilling to get up to speed with feminism. The third is a lesbian, looking for a man to father her child. The series is highly contemporary and asks brave questions about partnerships in a world where men and women look to each other for emotional fulfilment yet no longer seem to be speaking the same language. Using humour, multifaceted characters and animal mating habits as motifs to make comment on human behaviours, The Mating Game offers both men and women the chance to recognize themselves on the screen and to laugh out loud at the debacle of modern relationships.
The production company behind the series is Uhuru Productions. Rehad Desai, CEO of Uhuru, executive producer of the show and board member of the South African Screen Federation, an industry body that is fighting to achieve a thriving film and television industry in South Africa, has this to say, “Despite the meltdown at the SABC we were able to have a relatively smooth production thanks to the professionalism of the SABC staff who we were fortunate to be working with. The stability allowed the producers to give full focus to the project which I believe is fully translated on to the screen.“
Also appearing in The Mating Game is Khabonina Qubeka (Rhythm City, The Lab 3, Muvango), Nathaniel Ramabulana (Justice for All, Jerusalema Entjha), Justin Strydom (Binnelanders, Snitch), Nick Boraine (Jozi, Hillside, Wild at Heart), and Khulu Skenjana (Jerusalema Entjha, Generations).
For further information or a full press pack, contact:
Anita Khanna
Writer/Producer
The Mating Game
anita@uhuruproductions.co.za
cell: 083 357 5904
www.uhuruproductions.co.za
www.3continentsfestival.co.za
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
TVIEC update 9 March: New and final date for meeting 27 March 2010
TVIEC Meeting: Date change
TVIEC to meet SABC Board
Request for information: Payments and contracts
Dear fellow industry professionals
Date change: 20 March meeting now 27 March
The general TVIEC meeting in Johannesburg on the afternoon of 20 March 2010 has been shifted to the following Saturday, 27 March at 3pm.
This is because of people going away that long weekend.
The purpose of the meeting at Goethe Institute (119 Jan Smuts Avenue) is to report back on the TVIEC’s dealings with SABC and other stakeholders and to consolidate and find a unified voice for the year ahead. We need to share our accounts of the issues we’re facing in the crisis as well as suggestions for ways forward.
Take note of this new date and keep your diaries open. Please come and get involved in the fight for a better industry.
TVIEC to meet SABC Board
This Friday, 12 March, representatives of the TVIEC will be meeting with the SABC Board.
The TVIEC requested the meeting to offer the industry’s perspective on building a new SABC. We need to discuss the outcomes of this meeting at the TVIEC meeting on 27 March. Be sure to attend and tell us what you’re thinking.
Please help: Payment and new contracts
Producers, actors and writers are still owed millions by SABC. Please update us on whether you’ve been paid or not and how the SABC is dealing with your debt. Also let us know if you’re having any contract issues or contractual disputes with SABC on new programming. Now is the time to fight for fair terms-of-trade with our broadcasters.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: tvcrisis@gmail.com
Charl: 082-6813680
This update is written on behalf of the TVIEC (Television Industry Emergency Coalition) which consists of: IPO (Independent Producers Organization), SASFED (South African Screen Federation), TPA (The Producers Alliance), DFA (Documentary Filmmakers Association), WGSA (Writers Guild of South Africa) as well as CWU (Creative Workers Union).
TVIEC to meet SABC Board
Request for information: Payments and contracts
Dear fellow industry professionals
Date change: 20 March meeting now 27 March
The general TVIEC meeting in Johannesburg on the afternoon of 20 March 2010 has been shifted to the following Saturday, 27 March at 3pm.
This is because of people going away that long weekend.
The purpose of the meeting at Goethe Institute (119 Jan Smuts Avenue) is to report back on the TVIEC’s dealings with SABC and other stakeholders and to consolidate and find a unified voice for the year ahead. We need to share our accounts of the issues we’re facing in the crisis as well as suggestions for ways forward.
Take note of this new date and keep your diaries open. Please come and get involved in the fight for a better industry.
TVIEC to meet SABC Board
This Friday, 12 March, representatives of the TVIEC will be meeting with the SABC Board.
The TVIEC requested the meeting to offer the industry’s perspective on building a new SABC. We need to discuss the outcomes of this meeting at the TVIEC meeting on 27 March. Be sure to attend and tell us what you’re thinking.
Please help: Payment and new contracts
Producers, actors and writers are still owed millions by SABC. Please update us on whether you’ve been paid or not and how the SABC is dealing with your debt. Also let us know if you’re having any contract issues or contractual disputes with SABC on new programming. Now is the time to fight for fair terms-of-trade with our broadcasters.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: tvcrisis@gmail.com
Charl: 082-6813680
This update is written on behalf of the TVIEC (Television Industry Emergency Coalition) which consists of: IPO (Independent Producers Organization), SASFED (South African Screen Federation), TPA (The Producers Alliance), DFA (Documentary Filmmakers Association), WGSA (Writers Guild of South Africa) as well as CWU (Creative Workers Union).
Invite to ONE CITY-MANY CULTURES Master Class
Dear Friends
The Documentary Filmmakers’ Association invites you to a Master Class and conversation with filmmakers Francois Verster and Dylan Valley as part of the Cape Winelands Festival. The discussion will be facilitated by Dr Premesh Lalu- Professor of History and Director of the Centre for Humanities Research at UWC.
The filmmakers will be responding to the theme of this year’s festival – which is ONE CITY - MANY CULTURES. They will address issues such as the role of the outsider looking in and the challenges to received notions of subject-filmmaker power relations. The filmmakers will be sharing examples of their work as well as their experiences.
Join us for snacks and a drink afterwards. It will be a great opportunity for exchange and discussion.
When : 18th of March at 17h00
Where : TH Barry Lecture Theatre Iziko Museum, Company Gardens, Cape Town.
PLEASE RSVP to Theresa Meyer @ theresa@dayzero.co.za by 15 March 2010
Francois Verster (Director of Pavement Aristocrats; A Lions Trail; When the War is Over; The Mother's House and Sea Point Days)
Dylan Valley (Director Lost Prophets; HipHopera; Infecting the City - A Collaboration around Xenophobia; Afrikaaps & Incarcerated Knowledge).
The Documentary Filmmakers’ Association invites you to a Master Class and conversation with filmmakers Francois Verster and Dylan Valley as part of the Cape Winelands Festival. The discussion will be facilitated by Dr Premesh Lalu- Professor of History and Director of the Centre for Humanities Research at UWC.
The filmmakers will be responding to the theme of this year’s festival – which is ONE CITY - MANY CULTURES. They will address issues such as the role of the outsider looking in and the challenges to received notions of subject-filmmaker power relations. The filmmakers will be sharing examples of their work as well as their experiences.
Join us for snacks and a drink afterwards. It will be a great opportunity for exchange and discussion.
When : 18th of March at 17h00
Where : TH Barry Lecture Theatre Iziko Museum, Company Gardens, Cape Town.
PLEASE RSVP to Theresa Meyer @ theresa@dayzero.co.za by 15 March 2010
Francois Verster (Director of Pavement Aristocrats; A Lions Trail; When the War is Over; The Mother's House and Sea Point Days)
Dylan Valley (Director Lost Prophets; HipHopera; Infecting the City - A Collaboration around Xenophobia; Afrikaaps & Incarcerated Knowledge).
IKON South Africa Press Release 2010
Dear SASFED Member,
We are very proud to announce that delivery of the Ikon short documentary series to SABC has begun and we have a line up of 30 films to showcase from South Africa, Africa and the World.
Please be advised that the broadcast of Ikon South Africa begins on Sunday 14 March at 21:00 on SABC 2.
We are going to be profiling the rest of the films after episode 1 next week. Please pass on to your friends, journalists, media circles and film appreciation communities.
For those of you on Facebook - please become fans of Ikon South Africa and spread the word via your networks.
Thanks!
Martina
www.ikonsouthafrica.com
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
SASFED statement on Minister of Arts & Culture’s reaction to lesbian art exhibit
2 March 2010
SASFED PRESS RELEASE
SASFED statement on Minister of Arts & Culture’s reaction to lesbian art exhibit
SASFED wishes to express our disappointment and concern at the reported reaction of Minister Xingwana to the photographs by lesbian artist and activist Zanele Muholi displayed on the Innovative Women art exhibition.
In a statement read by her spokeswoman, the Minister declared the photographs “immoral, offensive and going against nation building”. Nation building is building on the diversity of all South Africans regardless of the divisions of the past. This includes minorities.
The role of the Minister is to act as a champion of the arts and culture sector and to support, without fear or favour, the freedom of expression – a basic human right. The Minister’s role is not that of moral watchdog or to serve as a censor. That type of behaviour is associated with our authoritarian past, not our present or future. Surely the Minister needs no reminding that our constitution outlaws discrimination based on sexual orientation.
We wish to express our solidarity with the artist and place on record our dismay at the Minister’s reaction.
The role of the creative – be it via television, photography or any other medium – is at the very least to hold a mirror to society and reflect reality in all its diverse and pluralistic forms. Artists are shaped by societal conditions of their time and it is their job to offer a social critique, to reflect and comment on our humanity.
SASFED PRESS RELEASE
SASFED statement on Minister of Arts & Culture’s reaction to lesbian art exhibit
SASFED wishes to express our disappointment and concern at the reported reaction of Minister Xingwana to the photographs by lesbian artist and activist Zanele Muholi displayed on the Innovative Women art exhibition.
In a statement read by her spokeswoman, the Minister declared the photographs “immoral, offensive and going against nation building”. Nation building is building on the diversity of all South Africans regardless of the divisions of the past. This includes minorities.
The role of the Minister is to act as a champion of the arts and culture sector and to support, without fear or favour, the freedom of expression – a basic human right. The Minister’s role is not that of moral watchdog or to serve as a censor. That type of behaviour is associated with our authoritarian past, not our present or future. Surely the Minister needs no reminding that our constitution outlaws discrimination based on sexual orientation.
We wish to express our solidarity with the artist and place on record our dismay at the Minister’s reaction.
The role of the creative – be it via television, photography or any other medium – is at the very least to hold a mirror to society and reflect reality in all its diverse and pluralistic forms. Artists are shaped by societal conditions of their time and it is their job to offer a social critique, to reflect and comment on our humanity.
Monday, March 1, 2010
SOS: Minutes and SABC Presentation - SABC hearing in Parliament (23 Feb 2010)
Hello all
To find a PDF on the minutes of Tuesday's meeting in Parliament click here.
For the SABC's power point presentation click here.
The documents are both very useful. I really suggest you read them. In quick summary the minutes cover the following points:
Also thanks to Mike for his excellent comments on programming. Will certainly add those to SOS strategy docs.
Finally, do join Rian's facebook group - "press the press". Apparently the group already has 200 members!
Warm regards
Kate
Kate Skinner
Coordinator
SOS: Supporting Public Broadcasting
(082) 926-6404
To find a PDF on the minutes of Tuesday's meeting in Parliament click here.
For the SABC's power point presentation click here.
The documents are both very useful. I really suggest you read them. In quick summary the minutes cover the following points:
- That the SABC is working on its "turnaround strategy". That this will clean up outstanding audit queries, lapses in corporate governance etc.. Most importantly it will look at the long term sustainability of the SABC.
- A temporary "turn around" unit has been set up to look at cost-containment issues, re-organising the SABC's sales and marketing unit, license fee collections and how to grow SABC audiences.
- That the SABC's wage bill and head count are under consideration.
- That progress has been made re: disciplinary action against certain staff members. The CFO and Head of Audience Services have received final written warnings and that the disciplinary hearings against the Head of Content Enterprises and Procurements is continuing. The Board also reported that they wanted to call the Auditor General back to do a final wrap up of the forensic audit process.
- That the bulk of the independent producer debt has been paid - an amount of R7m remains
- That news reader contracts have been adjusted in line with cost cutting measures. News readers get paid for reading the news over and above their normal salaries. To ensure saving were made free lance rates were reduced but this had not effected employees' salaries and that this was done in consultation with unions.
- SABC international is to be closed down.
Also thanks to Mike for his excellent comments on programming. Will certainly add those to SOS strategy docs.
Finally, do join Rian's facebook group - "press the press". Apparently the group already has 200 members!
Warm regards
Kate
Kate Skinner
Coordinator
SOS: Supporting Public Broadcasting
(082) 926-6404
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