PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Plettenberg Bay is poised to take centre stage in a new film by legendary South African director Koos Roets, and the man himself will be visiting the town this week to scout for a location for his upcoming film. Not only that, but a lucky local could also secure an appearance in the film.
Plett Tourism spokesperson Patty Butterworth said Roets will visit Plett on a location scout for his next film Ikhapara Hop – a human drama based in Kranshoek.
The film will include the local riel (Ikhapara) and modern hip-hop dance genres as pivotal cultural symbols. The dances will also be the backdrop against which the story of tragedy, reconciliation and triumph plays out.
Local producer Marius Murths has been at the forefront of the initiative as well as a drive to raise funds for a short film, which will serve as a pilot to raise finance for a full-length feature.
"The Bitou Municipality and Plett Tourism are in full support of the project and have pledged a grant-in-aid," Butterworth said.
Throughout his career which started in 1962, Roets has been involved in more than 150 productions as director of photography, director, scriptwriter or producer and his name has featured 35 times among the nominees for various awards, of which he has won 33.
Meet the man
Roets will also host a screening of one of his most memorable films, Pawpaw vir my Darling, at Emily Moon River Lodge on 1 October. The evening will include an introduction of Pawpaw vir my Darling by Roets, as well as an opportunity for locals to engage with the director. It will also serve as a fundraiser for Ikhapara Hop.
At the event, Plett Tourism will start the process of auctioning off "15 minutes of fame" for a lucky local in the movie. The highest bid will be taken forward to an online platform as the opening bid.
The bidding will only be open for a week and the proceeds will go directly to the production budget of Ikhapara Hop.
Tickets are R200 and include a welcome drink, a pizza to order, the film screening and discussions with Roets. Tickets are available through www.pletttourism.com and proceeds from sales will go towards covering the costs of the event.
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