Let's all show Ubuntu for Haiti

Premium night club together with the support of reputable relief organization Gift of the Givers Foundation and local ‘do-gooders’ Cheesekids will be hosting a fundraising event this Saturday, 30th January 2010  at Premium in Rivoniva, where all proceeds will be donated to the Heal Haiti cause.

What : Haiti SOS
Where : Premium
When : Saturday, 30th January 2010
Time : Doors open 9am
DJ : Vigi-lante / Voodoo / Naves / Zinhle / Biz / Master M / Paul / Switch / Franky
Donation : R50 upwards /Non-perishable canned foods / Clothing

Following the recent natural disaster in Haiti earlier this month, with an urgent plight from the Haitian people for basic survival support, Joburgers are asked to ‘stand up’ and make a difference now. Haiti SOS was created for that purpose.

Premium hosts 2 dance-floors, with house and hiphop beats, DJ’s donate their time and skill. With additional support from various urban brands, the initiative hopes to raise over R100 000 in money and goods.

All proceeds made on the night, will be donated to the Gift of the Givers Foundation based here in South Africa, who conduct direct weekly deliveries to Haiti.

‘So many Africans want to assist and just don’t know how. With support from the Gift of the Givers Foundation, we know that the right people will get our donations,’ says Raphael Benza, Managing Director of the Vth Season.

Requested donations include a financial contributions (R50 or more), new clothing and non-perishable canned foods.

Morgan Freeman shows support to local charities in light of Day of Reconciliation

In respect of South Africa’s heritage and in the spirit of promoting reconciliation and unity around the Day of Reconciliation, commemorated nationally on the 16th December, Academy Award® winner Morgan Freeman and Producing partner from Revelations Entertainment, Lori McCreary have committed their support in a corporate charity drive to raise much needed funds for three charities of choice.

The Soweto INVICTUS Outreach Programme will take place at the Ster-Kinekor Maponya Mall in Soweto on the celebrated day. At the event, Freeman will hand over all funds raised to The Nelson Mandela Foundation, The Make a Difference Foundation, and the Chris Burger/Petro Jackson Players’ Fund. Making an appearance at the Johannesburg premiere of Invictus, Winnie Madikizela Mandela and family have also pledged their support in favour of all Invictus charity-related activities.

Several communities in Soweto, south of Johannesburg, will be transported to Ster-Kinekor Maponya Mall, where they will be treated to a free screening of Invictus. Freeman is excited to address the guests, and hopes that this event will usher in a spirit of generosity and charity in the corporate environment. In the true spirit of ubuntu, Warner Bros. Pictures, Nu Metro Films along with MTN are honoured and excited to be at the forefront of this initiative, and MTN South Africa’s welcomed support in the local entertainment industry serves to confirm their commitment to our country, as a whole.

“With its involvement in the Invictus premiere and charity event, MTN South Africa is showing its commitment to not only the ideals underpinning the movie, but also to provide people from all walks of life with the opportunity to see this uplifting story,” says Veli Mabena, general manager for marketing and brand at MTN South Africa.

Established in 1999 in lieu of Nelson Mandela’s retirement, The Nelson Mandela Foundation, through the creation of strategic networks and partnerships proudly contributes to the making of a just society by promoting vision, values and convening dialogue around critical social issues that require much needed attention. The Make a Difference Foundation which was corely founded by ex Springbok captain Francois Pienaar, provides exceptional educational opportunities for deserving youngsters in South Africa, who might otherwise never have been given the opportunity to reach their full potential. In respect and homage to two young rugby players who died playing the game they loved, The Chris Burger/Petro Jackson Players’ Fund was formed in 1980. With the purpose of making rugby a safer sport, this fund to assist the unfortunate victims of catastrophic or serious rugby injuries and to develop and implement initiatives that aim to educate, inform and create awareness around rugby injuries.

Freeman and McCreary are in South Africa to support local premiere events for the motion picture release “Invictus,” starring Freeman as Nelson Mandela. Invictus releases nationwide on 11 December 2009, and will stay on in South Africa to support the above Invictus charity- related initiatives.

COMING HOME inspires Gauteng audiences this Festive Season - WIN TICKETS!

Acclaimed South African composer Isak Roux headlines the inspiring play, Coming Home, which seeks to evoke themes found in the Biblical parable of The Prodigal Son.
Held over Reconciliation days, which is the 15th and 16th December, the work also aligns with the theme of this important and uniquely South African historical event.

Not only does Coming Home blend the voices of three solo singers, a large mixed choir and a jazz and string orchestra, but more importantly, it draws on the uniquely African musical genre of Isicathamiya. Roux - who has worked abroad extensively - was inspired to compose a work that will aim to bring the traditional Spiritual back to its ancestral home, Africa.

Musically, the audience will be treated to a mixture of classical, jazz and gospel styles, combined with a touch of township styles such as penny whistle, marabi and kwela. The narrative sections will see influences of praise song, IsiZulu oral poetry as well as a little kwaito coming through.

Roux explained that Coming Home will for the most part be interpreted in various indigenous languages of South Africa. "The work functions on different levels, and the parable itself appeals to people globally, regardless of one's religious affiliations. Also, it is a celebration of Africa and its Homecoming in light of the African Renaissance - it is a triumphant vision of our past, present and future," said Roux.

The play will be narrated by accomplished local actor, Sello Maake ka Ncube, with award winning soprano Sibongile Mngoma, and tenor Tim Moloi featuring prominently as soloists. The South African Chamber Choir will feature in the performance and the work will be conducted by Kutlwano Masote.

Coming Home is approximately 80 minutes, and will encompass two sections of 40 minutes each.
Taking place at the Joburg Promusica Theatre in Florida Park, on Tuesday 15 December at 20h00 and on Wednesday 16 December at 15h00, this is the ideal opportunity to celebrate the homecoming and reconciliation of our nation.

These concerts are supported by Classic FM and sponsored by The National Arts Council of South Africa. Tickets are available at Computicket and at the Joburg Promusica Theatre (011 674 1357/8/9) for R100.00

We have a treat for 5 of our lucky readers to go and watch the show on the opening night on Tuesday,15 December 2009. All you have to do is send an email with your name, surname and contact details to khetha@yeahbo.net .

Brian Temba showcases his indisputable talent

I hav just returned from La Toscana at Montecasino, where Brian Temba finally launched his critically acclaimed debut album to an inviting crowd. With a largely visible presence of the media, his family, other entertainers and the general public, the Pretoria-born crooner sizzled as he proved that he is giving Something Better, as far as music is concerned in Mzansi.

Arriving just minutes after he started performing, I couldn't help getting in the groove of things. Brian Temba performed most of the songs from Something Better, introducing each song with a short synopsis of what the song was about and what inspired it. Among these were the smash debut hit single Dominoes, Don't Let Me Fall, the title track Something Better and two of my most favourites, Early Morning and Better Then. Speaking of Better Then, he mentioned that although the song is dedicated to his late brother, it's also for everybody who has lost a loved one. I couldn't agree more as the moving lyrics resonate and remind you of the people in your life who have passed on. Sporadically, video clips would be played, documenting his journey through the process of creating Something Better.

Another great moment of the night was when he performed the only duet on Something Better called Where This Is Going, which he originally did with Sharlene Hector, this time belting it out with the beautiful and talented Durban singer Lungi Naidoo. It didn't end there as Brian Temba gave us a rousing rendition of the Kate Bush classic This Woman's Work, and I must mention that Kate would be as proud as she was when Maxwell covered the same song when he did his MTV Unplugged recording in '97. He continued to showcase his vocal prowess as he dabbled in short verses of some of his favourite songs from his favourite singers like Boyz II Men, Anthony Hamliton and Tevin Campbell, to name but a few. To show he hasn't forgotten his roots, he broke into a few gospel numbers he did in his hey days with outfits like Family Factory and Joyous Celebration. Moreover, it was sweet experiencing first-hand the view of relationship Brian Temba has with his business partner and friend Mandisa Makalima, who looked stunning by the way in a strapless knee-length frock.

Another noteworthy experience was the use an amazing 6-piece band, led by super producer Alexis Faku. Each band member did a sterling job in complementing Brian's indisputable voice. Activites for the night included a Montecasino-sponsored prize-giveaway where 3 very ecstatic ladies walked away with 3 dates with Brian; one having lunch at a restaurant of her choice at Montecasino, another taking to the air on an air-balloon, and the last one watching a movie of her choice at Nu Metro Montecasino.

It was a great night, filled with great music, great bunch of people and resulted in great memories. I must mention that Azania Ndoro did a superb job as a compeer for the evening. Something Better is an amazing body of work. Testimony is borne in Brian Temba being nominated twice at the Channel O Music Video Awards taking place in about 2 weeks (check out www.channelo.tv to vote). Speaking of music awards, the album is a beast, therefore I'm terribly scared of whoever will be nominated against Brian Temba at the SAMA's next year. The album is in stores now, go and cop yourself Something Better.

Renault launches their new Megane and Scenic models

Many of you might remember the huge buzz early this year when Renault launched the very first car, their new Sandero line of cars, completely manufactured right here in Mzansi. The launch event in Newtown was a memorable occassion, with Gang Of Instrumentals who were selected to be the face/spokespeople for Sandero giving us some energetic and creative sketch and hot musical performance, amongst other forms of entertainment. But I digress (clearly I had so much fun).

Now, the car manufacturer has just finalised the new Megane and Scenic in their respective lines and launched both the cars at another awesome event at a plush event Summer Place in Sandton. Although I missed out on the formalities where the 2 beautiful and stylish cars were introduced to the guests because of a prior engaement, I caught the bit of the fun later.

As I arrived at the venue, with light drizzles having started already outside, I received a warm greeting at reception and a Canon representive took a picture to promote their new Canon mobile printer. The music that was pumping on the inside only got me eager and excited to find out what was going on, on the other side of the wall. As I was cruising the venue, I saw some familiar faces who had also come to witness and celebrate what Renault has newly blessed us with, 2 stylish and powerful aditions to the Megane and Scenic sub-families.

With the excitement in the air, I stepped outside the graden area to see where they had displayed the cars. However, I couldn't even get a picture as the drizzles had gotten much stronger. It's a pity that later when the weather had cleared, the cars had also already been cleared. Anyway, from a distant, I could see that the Megane would definitely be a car I wouldn't mind driving at all. The party continued with the DJ churning out hit aftr hit to guests marvel. It was great chatting to people like soul singer Malik, TV personality and business woman Thuli Zuli, super music producer Beatmaker and seeing other personalities like Da Les and Sade Gilberati having so much fun on the dance floor. I was a bit disappointed that there were no live performances, but it was still an enjoyable evening.

The beautiful Farah Fortune from African Star Communications, who put the event together, needs to be applauded for the job well done. Apart from being a great host, she is one of the most professional ladies I've met in the business. The new Megane and Scenic are both available on sale at Renault delaers nationwide. I know for a fact that one of my friends has been eyeing the Megane, and after the launch, it's going to be easier to convince him to gor for it. Perhaps even go for it myself.

Michael Jackson fans to get a treat with his new film THIS IT IT.

Fans worldwide will have the opportunity to celebrate the global launch of Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT when Sony Pictures Entertainment hosts over 25 global premieres, with more than 15 of those coordinated simultaneously around the world, on Tuesday, October 27th. Three hours after the red carpet events begin, audiences will be able to see the highly anticipated film for the first time as the studio has added special advance screenings that evening throughout the world.

The South African premiere will take place on Thursday 28 October at 3am at Ster-Kinekor Fourways Mall, Cavendish in Cape Town, Gateway in Durban and Sterland in Pretoria. Tickets will be sold at R200 a ticket (Vitality and Edgars Club concessions will apply)

Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT will be available worldwide for a limited two-week engagement beginning, Wednesday October 28. Tickets for all shows, are available for purchase beginning this coming Sunday, September 27. South African moviegoers can purchase tickets for both the release of the film and premiere by visiting www.thisisitmovie.co.za.

“Michael Jackson has an army of fans everywhere around the world. By rolling out this film with simultaneous premieres and special advance screenings on October 27th, we are giving audiences an incredible opportunity to join together in celebration of Michael Jackson’s incredible career,” said Jeff Blake, chairman, Worldwide Marketing and Distribution for Sony Pictures.

The film’s world gala will be in Los Angeles at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE on Tuesday, October 27. That event, which begins at 6pm PDT, kicks off a series of more than 25 premieres around the globe. More than 15 cities, including New York, Rio De Janeiro, London, Berlin, Johannesburg, and Seoul will host event simultaneously, with red carpet arrivals and activities from the Los Angeles event broadcast by satellite to those cities. Other cities, including Moscow, Tokyo, Sydney, Paris, and many others will host their own, non-simultaneous premiere activities.

Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London’s O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from March through June, 2009, the film is produced with the full support of the Estate of Michael Jackson and drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show. Audiences will be given a privileged and private look at Jackson as he has never been seen before. In raw and candid detail,

Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT captures the singer, dancer, filmmaker, architect, creative genius, and great artist at work as he creates and perfects his final show. Kenny Ortega, who was both Michael Jackson's creative partner and the director of the stage show, is also directing the film, which is being produced by Randy Phillips, Kenny Ortega and Paul Gongaware. Executive producers are John Branca and John McClain. The film will be distributed worldwide by Sony Pictures Releasing. For more information about the film please visit www.thisisitmovie.co.za

This is a great way to celebrate the life of the legend. Don't miss out.

Mandoza joins Engen to create an African Welcome

Mandoza fans are in for a treat. Early 2010 will see the launch of an exclusive open arms African Welcome project jointly created by Mandoza and Engen. The soccer influenced project is based on making all Engen customers feel like Champions with Engen’s brand promise “With us you are number 1”.

According to the press release, last month Engen approached Mandoza to join them on the project by recording an in-house song with production maestro Gabi Le Roux which has already been distributed to 40 000 Engen staff. Mandoza and Gabi are a known powerful combination for creating smash hits like “GODOBA”, “TORNADO”, “INDODA” to name but a few and not forgetting the mammoth hit song “NKALAKATA” which was the gigantic crossover song enjoyed by all nations in South Africa, Africa and countries around the world. A high quality music video has also been produced which will be played at all Engen stations country wide.

An exclusive magazine has been personally signed with a message written by Mandoza saying “My People, You Are My Champions! Be Number One!” Mandoza and Engen are proud and honored to be part of a South African dream come true!

It seems Mandoza keeps on making movies. From his breakout in Asia to his collaboration to create a sandal with the French sports clothing label Le Coq Sportif, his inclusion in the Umoja cast (debatable failure), and now this venture with Engen. Can't blame a guy for hustling.

District 9 does it again, for the second week in a row!

Last week we reported on YEAHBO.DOT.NET that the new local blockbuster DISTRICT 9 trashed local records as it topped the box office in it's opening weekend. It's done it again this past weekend by retaining its position atop the box office list.

DISTRICT 9 continues to hold the #1 position at the South African box office in its 2nd weekend on circuit (it released locally on the 28th of August) and has earned just over R4,600,000 to date and still going strong.

DISTRICT 9’s performance in its 2nd weekend is 28% better than the second weekend results for TERMINATOR SALVATION and well over double those of other local comparative releases, WHITE WEDDING and TSOTSI.

DISTRICT 9 features Sharlto Copley, Jason Cope, Kenneth Nkosi, Vanessa Hayward, Mandla Gaduka, Eugene Khumbanyiwa, David James, Louis Minnaar, Sylvaine Strike and many other recogniseable South-African actors.

The film was first showcased at Comic-Con in July 2009 in the United States and has been conquering the box-office and garnering rave reviews everywhere it’s released to date. It continues its extraordinary run at the US box-office, where it is on track to join the $100 million “blockbuster” list for 2009.

David James (in the role of Koobus) commented on the success so far on the film: “I am overwhelmed. Wherever I go people are talking about this movie, and the fact that I had the opportunity to be part of this great film is a real humbling experience.”

DISTRICT 9 is distributed by Ster-Kinekor Distribution in South-Africa.

Let's do it for the third time this coming weekend, go out there and catch DISTRICT 9 at Ster Kinekor cinemas nationwide this coming weekend and beyond.

Chill with MTVbase's VJ Sizwe on the Tropika Island of Treasure in Zanzibar!!!

Girls, and some boys, do you and a friend want to spend three sun-filled days with MTVbase’s VJ, Sizwe on the Tropika Island of Treasure in Zanzibar.

MTVbase is offering you the chance to win a trip to the ‘Tropikal’ island of Zanzibar, to spend three sun-filled days with MTVbase VJ, Sizwe Dhlomo. Sizwe is one of the celebrities who’ll be taking on the challenge in the Tropika Island of Treasure reality show, along with the who’s who of celebrities including Lira, Loyiso Bala, Kelly Khumalo, Hendrik Cronje, Trevor Noah, Bianca Le Grange, Tasha Baxter, Speedy and Sashi Naidoo. As the celebs and fans battle it out with various challenges in the hopes of becoming the winning team, you and your BFF could be sipping on cocktails, cheering Sizwe and the gang on.

Sound good? Entering is as easy as lazing on a deck chair – sms “TROPIKA” to 33393 and tell us in 20 words or less why you and a friend deserve to spend three sizzling days in Zanzibar. Sms cost R1.50. You can also enter online - just go to http://www.mtvbase.com/.

Enter now and stand a chance to win a once in a lifetime getaway with Sizwe in Zanzibar. Entries close 30 September 2009. Don’t snooze (unless it’s under a palm tree). If you live in South Africa, are 18 years or older, have a valid passport and can travel from 17 October to 20 October. It could be you!

Also check out the nominees for the MTV Africa Music Awards taking place in a few weeks at YEAHBO.DOT.NET and get voting for your favourite to walk away with the statuettes.

Shakespeare on stage for 2 nights only this October

Both theatre and big-screen fans get a two-in-one package deal. Cinema Nouveau has confirmed that Shakespeare’s popular romantic tragicomedy-fantasy ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL will be the next title for their series of live theatre-screenings at Cinema Nouveau. The play will be filmed live on stage at the National Theatre in London (as part of their NT Live-season, broadcasting theatre live to cinemas around the world), and screened exclusively in High Definition-quality at Cinema Nouveau Theatres on 22 and 28 October at 20:00.

The National Theatre London’s production of ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL is directed by Marianne Elliott, and stars Michelle Terry and George Rainsford, with set designs by Rae Smith and lighting by Peter Mumford. “Marianne Elliott's wondrous revival... a fairytale for grown ups,” says The Guardian; while The Sunday Times UK proclaims it to be “a masterpiece!”

“The performances are uniformly excellent...Marianne Elliott's direction has a clarity not short of visionary,” states The Evening Standard. The Observer’s reviewer said that he would “…love to see it all over again!”

Set against a background of sexism, snobbery and a battle between the generations, Shakespeare's ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL turns fairytale logic on its head. A wondrous, bittersweet story following the feisty but lowly Helena (Michelle Terry), who falls in love with Bertram (George Rainsford), a haughty count. To gain his hand, she is set a string of impossible tasks. Even if accomplished, they can hardly guarantee his love. He refuses to bed her and yet says he'll only be hers if she bears his child; and he lusts after another. Nevertheless, our heroine, whether wisely or no, refuses to give him up.

ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL is one of Shakespeare’s most enigmatic plays. It is part of that trio of early seventeenth-century works – the others are Troilus and Cressida and Measure for Measure – which are traditionally referred to as the ‘problem plays’ or the ‘dark comedies’. Nowadays we might call them ‘Shakespeare noir’.


Shakespeare’s ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL will be screened for two nights only, on 22 & 28 October at 20:00, at all 7 Cinema Nouveau-theatres nationwide; ticket price is R200 per person, which includes a full red-carpet theatre experience & refreshments:

Cinema Nouveau Rosebank (Jhb)

Cinema Nouveau Cedar Square (Fourways, Jhb)

Cinema Nouveau Bedford Centre (Bedfordview, Jhb)

Cinema Nouveau Brooklyn Mall (Pta)

Cinema Nouveau V&A Waterfront (CT)

Cinema Nouveau Cavendish Square (CT)

Cinema Nouveau Gateway (Umhlanga Rocks, Dbn)

Cinema Nouveau has acquired all the NT Live-titles for live theatre at Cinema Nouveau via international distributor BY Experience. This is the company that’s also behind the hugely successful Metropolitan Opera Live in HD – which is having its 3rd season-premiere at Nouveau later this year. The screening of NT Live’s ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL follows on the success of PHEDRE, which successfully launched live theatre at Cinema Nouveau to sold-out shows a few months ago.

ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL is released by Ster-Kinekor Select in South Africa.

Cinema Nouveau offers customers multiple booking and information gathering options, including online bookings either on your WAP-enabled cell phone or PC via www.sterkinekor.com ; or by calling TicketLine 082 16789 (value added service rates apply), or book in cinema at the self service terminals (SSTs) or Box Offices. Ster-Kinekor Theatres – Always Better on our Big Screen.

Tony Rich has arrived to serenade revellers at Golf Reef City thios weekend.

You may have heard a few months ago that the soulful crooner will be in the country to perform 2 exclusive shows at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino on the weekend on the 10th-11th July 2009. Well he is here, I believe he arrived a day before yesterday.

For those that are not familiar with Tony Rich or his music, he's one of the most under-rated and prolific musicians and songwriters of our lifetime. He first attracted attention as a staff writer for the Babyface- and L.A. Reid-led label La Face, churning out hits for the likes of Boyz II Men, Johnny Gill, TLC and Toni Braxton.

He then decided to mix different sounds of rock, jazz and soul music into his own music. Late in 1995, he released his hit single Nobody Knows which went all the way up to number 2 on the Billboard Charts. Under the moniker The Tony Rich Project, he released his debut album in early 1996; an album which scored him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album. He has released 5 more albums after that, included in that impressive catalogue the Nobody Knows: The Best of Tony Rich Project compilation.

If you enjoy the music of the era when La Face ruled the music scene or if you are into soulful and inspirational kind of tunes, be sure to check out Tony Rich live at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino, this coming Friday, 10th July 2009 and Saturday, 11th July 2009. He'll be supported by our very own crooner, Thabo Mdluli. It's one of the musical experiences you don't want to miss.

Tickets are selling out fast, so make your bookings through Computicket or at The Lyric box office on 011 248 5000 or log onto www.goldreefcitycasino.co.za.

Pics by: Cobus Bodenstein

Nu Metro Beat pays homage to the King Of Pop

We did a short piece upon learning of the passing away of Michael Jackson. There has been a massive amount of coverage since then from all spheres of the media, mostly paying tribute to the fallen musical icon.

In more responses to the sad news that Michael Jackson passed away, Nu Metro Cinemas - South Africa’s premium cinema exhibitor - announced last Friday that the next event will feature a Nu Metro BeatMichael Jackson Biography as a tribute.

Nu Metro Beat is a once a month – one night only music event, featuring music concerts and music documentaries in cinemas.

Michael Jackson has led an incredible life, from his beginnings as a child star, to his rise as the King of Pop, followed by years of public scrutiny. Learn how his music career began at a young age and how it shaped his adult life. Get a view of his solo years and how his collaboration with Quincy Jones yielded one of the best selling albums of all time. This is the real story of a global star without equals, separating the man from the myth. This is Michael Jackson Unmasked!

According to Nu Metro Cinemas Content and Marketing Head, Mark Harris, “This event will take place on Friday the 10th of July 2009 - a simultaneous one-night-only release at the following Nu Metro Cinemas around the country: Bedford Centre, Clearwater Mall, The Glen, Montecasino, Menlyn Park, Boardwalk Port Elizabeth, Canal Walk, The Pavilion, Riverside, and Loch Logan at 6:30pm, 8:00pm and 9:30pm.”

If you watched the memorial service last night, you will fully understand the great things echoed about Michael Jackson as you watch the tribute at the specified Nu Metro theatres this Friday. If you think it was a moving and touching tribute, watch how he got to receive such a dignified and spectacular send-off. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to see how Michael Jackson deservedly earned the King Of Pop title.

Will Umalusi help steer local film productions in the right direction?

The local film industry is set to be on the spotlight once more when a new short feature called Umalusi (which is a person's name loosely translated to "the herdboy" in English) is released this coming Friday, 10th July 2009. What is most interesting is that the cast, and the director for that matter, are virtually unknown, so we will get to judge the film by what we see rather than being biased towards some of the names we like. I haven't seen the movie yet, so I can't really give it a thumbs up or down, but below is a synopsis I was sent by Ster kinekor.

Umalusi is an introspective riches to rags drama about a spoilt brat, Malusi Mati (Sivu Nobongoza) who has to learn life’s lessons the hard way. Having spent most of his life living in the sleepy coastal city of East London (South Africa) life up to this point has been a breeze for the flamboyant young man. Malusi is as selfish as they come, he is the center of his perverse universe and no one else matter. The tide turns for our anti-hero when after a night of decadence he sleeps with Pearl, the eighteen Year old sister of his best mate. The night ends in tragedy when Pearl dies seemingly from a drug overdose. The extremely malevolent and coked-up Malusi leaves her on the side of the road and runs. Leaving the comfort of his cocooned life he heads for the only place he can hide, Mdanstane township. A completely alien environment for this private school graduate, Malusi is about to learn some vital lessons.....About life...

Please go out there and support our arts. Help our film industry strive with your support of our local productions. Umalusi opens at selected Ster Kinekor cinemas nationwide on Friday, 10th July 2009.

The Legendary King Of Pop Is No More.

The world is reeling with shock and sadness following the news of Michael Jackson's hospitalisation, and ultimately his tragic and unexpected death; from a cardiac arrest arising from heart failure. All spectrums of the media have covered the topic in abundance and it's one on everybody lips or fingers as the whole world sends their messages of sympathy and condolences to Michael's children, family and friends.

When I received a call from one of my friends after the Bafana Bafana game against Brazil last night, I immediately texted a friend of mine from the U.S. to share what they had heard as the local radio deejays were not sure of the facts. He said the news stations were reporting that he was in cardiac arrest, but within minutes he sent back another mobile text to say they were now reporting that he had died.

I cannot begin to describe the sadness that swept through my heart when it was confirmed that he had really passed on. I instantly remembered that me and a group of friends were watching one of his live DVD's for his Bucarest tour in 1992 just last Sunday over lunch and we were talking about him and the power and the ability to capture his fans' spirits and transport them into this surreal inexplainable world of worship.

The testimony to this ability was entrenched in a joke I read about on one of my favourite blogs Panache Report, where one of the commenters revealed a true account of a young, fat girl who used to be taunted by the neighbourhood kids because of her weight. After this happened for a long time, she one day turned around to face a gigantic Michael Jackson poster she had on the wall of her bedroom and loudly emitted, "Michael Jackson, please give me strength". She then went out and whipped those kids' butts; and needless to say, those kids never bothered her again. We all laughed until the back of our heads started to ache. That's just one of the many wonderful memories I will cherish about Michael Jackson until the end of my lifetime.

All I'll say for now is, may his soul rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans throughout the world, who are all feeling different variations of pain, sadness and sorrow right now. We need to celebrate his life and most importantly the precious treasure he left behind, his music. His legacy will live on forever and stay unparalleled with any other entertainer who has braced this world. He was a trully phenomenal talent. He was trully THE BEST. R.I.P. Micahel Jackson.

Picture credit: Concreteloop

Anant Singh continues his film truimphs as he launches his latest work

His new film is making waves ahead of the Cannes Film Festival already, only a sign that it will become as popular as time goes on, leading to its theatrical release.

More Than Just A Game, the film about the inspirational story of organized football played among prisoners on Robben Island had a screening at House Of Lords in London last week (12 May 2009), hosted by Baroness Jan Royall, the Leader of the House and Chief Whip Lord Bassett, with producer Anant Singh and co-producer Lord Ted Rowlands in attendance. Lord Rowlands who is a Member of the House, facilitated the screening. Also present was Prof Chuck Korr, author of the book, More Than Just A Game: Soccer vs Apartheid. The screening ended with a thunderous spontaneous applause from the assembled audience. More Than Just A Game stars Presley Chweneyagae (Tsotsi), Wright Ngubeni (Generations, Rythm City), Tshepo Maseko (Isidingo) and is directed by Junaid Ahmed.

The event is significant as Jan Royall is a senior member of the Labour Party which strongly supported the struggle against apartheid and the sports boycott against South Africa. The screening of the film was also a tribute to the anti-apartheid movement and the many activists who made huge personal sacrifices in their fight against apartheid, especially those who were incarcerated on Robben Island. In his address to the audience, Lord Rowlands paid special tribute and thanked Tony Suze, Mark Shinners, Lizo Sitoto, Marcus Solomon and Sedick Isaacs – the five men on whose real life story More Than Just A Game is based – who also sent notes which Lord Rowlands read to the audience.

Among the high profile guests in attendance were anti-apartheid activist, Lord Bob Hughes; sport and human rights activist, Lord Richard Faulkner who was charged with revitalizing football in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s; Joint Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights member and UNICEF Trustee, Baroness Whitaker and North Wales member of the House, Betty Williams; BBC Film’s Carol Sennett who announced that the film will be broadcast on BBC’s main television channel as a lead-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup and Danny Goldman of Sony Pictures Entertainment which is the worldwide distributor of the film. Also in attendance were a host of people that were involved in the anti-apartheid movement and football in the United Kingdom.

Producer Anant Singh commented,

“I am delighted with the fantastic reaction to the film at the House Of Lords, especially that the audience was moved and impressed by our little film about football on Robben Island. It was truly an amazing experience have More Than Just A Game screen in the House of Lords. I am especially pleased that a number of those in attendance were involved in the anti-apartheid movement and football, and made a special effort to be there.”

Singh now heads off to the Cannes Film Festival where the film will be marketed and screened to international buyers. The film will be rolled out internationally in the run-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

In the picture: Co-producer, Lord Ted Rowlands and Producer, Anant Singh at the House of Lords, London.

Cadillac Records premiere a soaring success

So finally it happened, and I'm ecstatic about the results. My biggest movie premiere yet took place last night and what a better way to have one of the stars in the movie to be a guest.

This is how the idea came about: I learnt that Mos Def was coming to the country for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and wanted to do something with him. On the very same day, I learnt that Kenzhero already had secured a gig with him, so I got a bit more creative. I knew Mos Def is in Cadillac Records, a movie based loosely on Etta James' life, which will be released by Ster Kinekor on the 29th of May 2009. I dediced to work on that angle.

After tireless communication with Mos Def's representatives, the ball got rolling. I approached Ster Kinekor with the idea and they took to it instantly. It's great to know I managed to pull this project off, and very well too, considering the sponsors we approached failed to see this great opportunity.

Anyway, the event happened last night at Ster Kinekor in Sandton City and it was on fire. Obviously the highlight of the event was Mos Def arriving and addressing the audience through a short interview by a young lady who won a Channel O competition. In addition to that, it was very moving that Mos decided to stay and watch at least 75% of the movie (he was only supposed to make and appearance and leave). The food was delicious and drinks flowing so easily. The whole event turned out amazingly well, with celebrities gallore.

First and foremost I've gotta thank Hardy McQueen for being a man of his word. From the beginning he told me that we were going to do this and we certainly did. Thanks Hardy, I can't emphasise enough how much your involvement in this project is appreciated. Thank you Irma for keeping me in check with regards to all the requirements from Hip Hop Alive's side. Thanks to Sibongile Khuzwayo who handled the catering segment of the event, the food was devine. To my friend Sizwe Dhlomo, thank you for agreeing to MC at such short notice and for your patience and calmness to the pressures that arose. And most importantly, as I did last night just before he left, thank you to Mos Def for his time and for ensuring this was a special moment for YEAHBO Entertainmnet (YEAHBO.DOT.NET). To Ster Kinekor Head Office and their theatres in Sandton City, Sandton City Management, and Sony Pictures, your input to the event is immensely valued. And lastly, but definitely not least, to all the YEAHBO.DOT.NET subscribers and readers who have been down with me all the way. Your support is greatly appreciated.

I'm going to continue bringing you people of Mzansi all the exclusives in terms of big screen experiences. This is a great feat in the entertainmnet industry, a really groundbreaking moment. This has never happened in the country and I'm glad my name is attached to it. Until another unique and exclusive experience, keep it locked right here and at YEAHBO.DOT.NET.

Photos taken by Khanya Litabe

Fast And Furious Back To Its Roots

This year sees the return of big blockbusters on the big screen. One such formidable hit is the 4th instalment of Fast And Furious, which saw serious car fantics throughout the world revel in the action-packed flick.

I had an absolute pleasure of watching it yesterday and I was bowled over by the authenticity of it all, from the acting to the stunts, to the witty dialogue. It was certainly a great and smart call to bring back the original cast from the very first instalment. Actually, after watching it, it felt like I was only watching the sequel; almost as if the second and third editions didn't exist.

Although one of my favourites,Tyrese (who appeared in the second instalment), did not reprise his role, the rest of the original cast, including Vin Diesel, Paul Walker (who I haven't seen on the big screen in a while), Michelle Rodriguez, and Jordana Brewster. It was also enjoyable seeing Laz Alonso in his element as one of the bad guys. He was very impressive as he emmersed himself into a character called Phoenix.

Fast And Furious 4 opens at cinemas nationwide next Thursday, 09 April 2009. However, YEAHBO.DOT.NET has a treat for their subscribers and readers alike. United International Pictures (UIP) has granted us an exclusive advanced screening of Fast nd Furious 4 on Tuesday, 07 April 2009. To be a part of the exhilerating experience, send an e-mail with the following details to yeahbo@yeahbo.net:

Name and surname;

Contact number;

E-mail address;

Your age;

The city where you live; and

Tell us how you learnt about YEAHBO.DOT.NET or yeahbodotnet.blogspot.com.

Please note, only Gauteng readers who will be able to make it to Montecasino are eligible for free tickets (on a first-come-first-serve basis). Good luck!

To get a taste of what to expect, check out the trailer of Fast And Furious 4 below:

Get your stylish Darkie gear at discounted prices

My boy Ayanda, who looks after the Darkie concept shop in Melville has just informed me that the season-end sale starts this coming Friday. You know we are close to the end of summer and preparing for the colder season, so we gotta clear the stock and make sure we have the winter collections available at the store.

Everything that you will find in the shop, is selling at 25% less. That's a bargain, even more so since the prices are already reasonable and affordable. Don't miss out on this opportunity. It's your chance to be seen donned in the utterly stylish and exclusive Darkie gear that is never, and I repeat, never repeated. Check out the above pic for some of the Darkie menswear that will be on sale.

The 25% Off Sale begins this coming Friday, 27 February 2009, until the stock is all sold. The Darkie concept shop is located on 7th Street in Melville, just next to Nunos restaurant. When you get there, tell them I gave you the tip. Also, for the Capetonians, the same sale started in the Darkie concept shop in Kloof Street in Cape Town this past Monday. Happy shopping!!!

Penelope Cruz puts Spain on the map with an Oscar

In the weeks leading to the Oscars I watched and reviewed some of the movies that were among the favourites for many. I also voiced my opinions on some of the nominees I thought stood a great chance. The results were quite pleasing, although somewhat not suprising. One of those movies that I wrote about was Vicky Christina Barcelona, which won Penelope Cruz her first Oscar ever.

The reason I'm highlighting this, is beacuse Penelope Cruz is the very first Spanish actress to walk away with the golden crown. And with good reason she won too, because she excelled on her role in the latest Woody Allen film. Even though I wanted Teraji P. Henson or Viola Davis to win the Best Supporting Actress gong, I'm content with Penelope Cruz (apparently she is going out with co-star Javier Bardem - second picture above - in real life, an interesting spin on the movie now that I know about that), as she has proved a phenomenal talent, overe and over. I first took notice of her in 2001 when she did Vanilla Sky with Tom Cruise, and have been a fan ever since.

And of course, I have to mention that another of my favourite films this year, Slumdog Millionare, had an impressive run at the Oscars this past Sunday. Walking away with 8 of the 11 trophies the film was nominated for, including Best Motion Picture and Best Directing for Dany Boyle, it was certainly the top 'dog'. Just this past Friday I also reviewed The Reader, which helped Kate Winslet cling the Best Leading Actress statuette, her very first after so many dry runs. There were many other films that did well, including The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button, although I was a bit disappointed it only won 3 out of the record 13 nominations for this year.

I didn't get to watch the actual show, but I have read and heard about it. What fascinated me about the stories was that the style was upped a bit this year by having past winners (as presenters) read a short profile on each of the nominees in the big categories. I thought that was very classy and such a sincere and commendable gesture. I hope I'll get to see the show some time to witness that for myself and to see how the performances were (apparently Queen Latifah did a sterling job with hers).

Let's hope next year will be even bigger and better. I'm looking forward to seeing the films that will be made this year to contest for next year's Oscars. And I'm certainly hoping South Africa is counted amongst those films.