Ster-Kinekor’s Sandton City Cinema 2 became “Jockland’ for 30 minutes on 12 August when hundreds of guests gathered to see preview footage of South Africa’s first animated 3D feature film, Jock of the Bushveld.
Directed and produced by Duncan MacNeillie, the footage from this version of Sir Percy FitzPatrick’s classic children’s tale blew the audience away with its breathtakingly beautiful visuals, rousing music, loveable characters and immersive 3D effects.
Jock of the Bushveld 3D is due for worldwide release in March 2011. The project has already generated international interest because of the involvement of legendary lyricist, Sir Tim Rice, who penned the words for the songs. Musicians who have contributed to the score include local artists Johnny Clegg, Craig Hinds and Nianell.
The screening event was attended by investors and commercial partners in the film, as well as by the film crew, voice artists, musicians and the media.
“Jock’ marketing director Andy Rice gave the audience a progress report on the production of the movie and thanked the film’s partners and investors. “Ster-Kinekor has been a key partner because if you don’t have distribution, you can’t make your film. So we’re thrilled that they have made such a commitment to the film.’
Ster-Kinekor executive chairperson Russell Rottanburg noted that he had brought several international investors into the “Jock’ edit suite. “I’ve loved seeing the expression on their faces when they watch the spectacular opening sequence. They can’t believe something so extraordinary could have been done in South Africa. The film beautifully captures the essence and passion of the book, right down to every subtle nuance. We’re very proud to be able to bring “Jock’ to the big screen next year.
One the investors in the film is Lombard Insurance. Said the company’s Miles Japhet who is also executive producer on the film: “It just so happens that I live on the same estate in the Lowveld as Duncan MacNeillie. About four years ago he approached me with the “Jock’ project . So, being a betting man, I got involved. Investing in a film is a bit like putting money on a random number at a roulette table. But Duncan is a great individual with a proven track record and “Jock’ is clearly a world class story. Duncan’s exceptional Scottish blood ensured that the production stuck to its budget.
“I think this film will put South Africa on the world stage. There is so much passion embodied in this film – even if we only make our money back it will be worth it.’
MacNeillie thanked his team and investors saying that he’d never experienced any hesitation or lack of support from them during the trying times. “The film’s music was a major focus for us and Sir Tim Rice’s lyrics really carry the story forward.’
The film’s marketing director Andy Rice talked about the business aspects of animated films. “There are two main sources of income – box office and character licensing. So there will be toys and clothing bearing the “Jock’ brand. Supporting brands are Penguin Books, almost all the major clothing retailers, quick service restaurant chain KFC, dog food manufacturer Bobtail, Nestle ice creams, and Lacey’s Lucky Packets. We are currently in negotiations with a bank, a fuel company, an airline, a telecommunications company and a camping goods manufacturer.
“I must thank Primedia Broadcasting for supporting our countrywide voice talent search on their 94.7 and KFM radio stations. We got swamped with tapes of young children wanting to play Jock’s siblings. Duncan, Ingrid Falk and I listened to thousands of voice tapes before deciding on a very talented seven-year-old called Fenias Timbe.’
The young performer was present at the screening and delighted the audience with a spontaneous live performance of a sequence from the film.
For more on “Jock’s’ 3D technology, see the September issue of Screen Africa.
