I have seen the new local big screen comedy JOZI 3 times already and have enjoyed it all 3 times. The third time though was different because I attended the official huge premiere held at Montecasino where the cast and crew were present. Other familar faces in the entertainment world came through to show support and have a good time. Not only that, but politicians were also in the house to show their support for the industry.
Some of the popular names and faces that attended include Scandal's Dawn Matthews, Rhythm City's Jamie Bartlett, musician and actress KB; I believe all in support of fellow actress Moshidi Motshegwa, who is one of the stars of JOZI. Portia Gumede, whose new show 4Play debuted on eTV last week was also there with actress and Metro FM newsreader Vatiswa Ndara. The lead actor in the movie Carl Beukes (who became popular as Paul on Isidingo) attended with his girlfriend. They are a lovely couple and it even shows from their matching outfits, Carl in a black suit and other half in a black cocktail dress. Fellow JOZI actress Lindiwe Matshikiza was also there.
Minister of Trade And Industry Rob Davis delivered a noteworthy speech before the screening of the movie. He painted a vivid picture of how much contribution his government department has contributed to the advancement of the Arts. For example, the department's provision of skilled descent jobs. he added, "We have invested about R800 million to the arts and culture industry since 2004".
After the movie was screened, Anant Singh called the cast and crew to the stage. It was a nice gesture, so we can see them with the naked eye. What was even more moving though, was his passionate speech before the movie was screened where he revealed how he feels JOZI has a commercial instinct, even with its very local and South African feel.
As for the movie, it provides a great landscape of the life in JOZI. It shows both the good and bad of the city we love so much, of course in a hilarious nature. However, as much as I picked up some experiences I could relate to, I feel they could have done more, especially with the kind of talent they had working behind the scenes and in front of the camera. I mean Anant Singh has produced such world-renowned beauties like Yesterday and Red Dust.
I also enjoyed watching the moving 3-minute video with a collage of images and video of Nelson Mandela and apartheid era, screened in tribute to Tata Madiba and Ahmed Kathrada. I couldn’t help though thinking what was going on through the audience’s minds as the images rolled on the screen.
JOZI opens at cinemas on the 26th of February 2010.
