Behind the Blazer, in association with the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) presented the Behind the Blazer Film Festival on 2 and 3 March 2018, at the Kwamdakane Community Hall in Dannhauser.
The Behind the Blazer Film Festival is an event that showcases films made by South African high school students from the vibrant townships, developing cities and not so distant rural areas. Behind the Blazer is Vusi Thwala’s brainchild; a non-profit organisation dedicated to enriching young minds to drive storytelling throughout the country, and reaching new audiences around South Africa through different communities.
The best film stories were chosen from various Dannhauser-based schools, with films exploring a broad range of topics that affect students in their schools, communities and at home; while stimulating great conversations amongst learners. The festival also offered a Q&A session with the young filmmakers, who aspire to be future practitioners within the South African film industry.
Seven high schools that included: Hlalanathi High School, Malambule High School, Sizimele High School, Mana High School, Mnyamande High School, Mzwethu High School and St Lewis High School, took part during the two-day festival events.
The festival programme showcased a selection of films with a running time of 10 to 20 minutes, with each film eligible for jury prizes and audience awards.
The competition jury comprised of seven individuals from the film and television community, who contributed to the diverse point of views and inspired the learners. The jury line-up included: Luthuli Dlamini (seasoned actor), Nomvelo Makhanya and Khanyisile Zwane (Scandal), Thuthuka Zondi (eNCA cameraman), Minenhle Gumbi (Langelihle Films), Mihlali Mzima and Mathapelo Mokoena (ASE Film and TV Production student). The festival also had an audience awards category that was done using a ballot system with festivalgoers casting their votes.
Award winners for the 2018 Behind the Blazer Film Festival include:
- Best Script: Mana High School
- Best Actor: Mnyamande High School
- Best Actress: St. Lewis High School
- Best Director: Malambule High School
- Best DOP: St Lewis High School
- Best Film: St Lewis High School
