“Tears of Sorrow’, a film by Creative Pictures in association with the Schools Literature Arts Organisation is set to explore the issue of disabilities in a social context. The film tells the tragic and complex love story of a young man (Mxolisi) and his disabled girlfriend (Nomthandazo). Facing the challenges they encounter, their love is tested, the stigma of disabilities within townships is examined and lessons are learnt.
Founder of Creative Pictures Vusi Dumisani Nhlapo, is the producer, writer and director of the production. He funded the film privately and also received funds from Rapid Blue. “People are there to invest and if there is no money, be creative and negotiate,’ he notes. The story is inspired by the need and passion of the writer to explore the issues related to disabilities.
Due to the restricted budget, Nhlapo sourced sponsorship from various people and organisations such as Puma Video for equipment, Ekurhuleni –Nigel Customer Care Service sponsored venues, the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department, ZSE TV for post production, the Film Resource Unit for distribution and Screen Africa for exposure. The CEO of Rapid Blue Duncan Irvine was also one of the key players in mentoring the young filmmaker. “The film will be screened on DSTV in January 2008,’ adds Nhlapo.
Creative Pictures is a young company launched in 2007 and the Schools Literature Arts Organisation, based in the East Rand, provides creative, writing and career projects aimed at the Nigel, Duduza, Tsakane, Kwa Thema and Alra Park areas.
