Five short films are currently in production by students of Impucuzeko Skills and Training Development. Impucuzeko, based in KwaZulu-Natal, takes in about 50 students every year and trains them in scriptwriting, make-up and wardrobe, production, directing and editing.
The short films in production are Black Out, Heshe Mbhemu, The End, The Cow Jumped On The Moon and Its My Time.
With the National Lottery as main funder, Impucuzeko has developed a programme that focuses on two main aspects of the arts, namely, indigenous music and filmmaking. The filmmaking workshop is headed by a high profile team, composed of Thabani Mthembu, Sandile Ndlanya, Xolani Mcineka, Sharon Kakora and Bianca Isaac, and covers all aspects used to create visual entertainment; from developing an idea to designing the world and the final creation of their film products.
Students with a theory understanding of their craft were invited to gain hands-on experience in making a film, understanding the art, implementing their skills and being part of a visual creation. They produce short films that form part of their show reel that can be presented to show their capabilities.
Impucuzeko set out to produce its first feature film in 2011, which allowed the company to place their developed students within the film. The success of this placement led to 90% of these students employed in their respective fields. For this film, experienced producers and directors were used and with the students as assistants to the various HOD’s, a successful short film (Umkhuleko) and feature film (Iphupho: The Dream) were made, both of which premiered at the 32nd Durban International Film Festival last year.
The 2012/2013 students will make a short film that is intended to travel into the short film festivals across the world (Cannes, Sundance Film Festival, Cape Winelands Festival, Africa in Motion, African Film Festivals, LA Short Films, The Manhattan Short). A feature film will also be shot with scenes to prove once again that KwaZulu-Natal is a premier location for film shoots for filmmakers from all over the world.
