The Story ⚡
Zuri 24 Media’s The Man Died is set to screen at the Joburg Film Festival alongside other remarkable African films, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.
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Wole Soyinka’s gripping prison memoir comes to life in The Man Died, a powerful autobiographical film that digs into the Nobel Laureate’s harrowing imprisonment without trial under a brutal military regime. A story of resilience and resistance, the film shows Soyinka’s unwavering defiance against oppression. Set to screen at the 7th edition of the Joburg Film Festival (March 11-16, 2025), the film has already made waves on the festival circuit, securing multiple awards.
Directed by Awam Amkpa and produced by Femi Odugbemi under Zuri 24 Media, The Man Died boasts a stellar cast featuring Wale Ojo, Sam Dede, Norbert Young, Ropo Ewenla, and Kelechi Udegbe. The film has earned prestigious accolades, including Best African Film That Tackles an Important African Issue at the 14th Luxor African Film Festival in Egypt. It also won Best Screenplay at both the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Lagos and the 35th Carthage International Film Festival in Tunis. Additionally, it claimed the Best Audience Choice Award at the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF) in Enugu.
Other Movies Heading to the Fest
Quantum
Through the journeys of a recovering addict, an estranged daughter, a single mother, an uninspired filmmaker, orphans, and a thug, this film weaves a compelling narrative of lives that seem separate yet are deeply connected in surprising ways.
Directed by Anele Geqiwe and featuring a talented cast including Bohang Moeko, Sikelelwa Vuyelenui, and Litemba Mkoka, the film is brought to life under the production of Siyamthanda Bangani.
Courting Anathi
Courting Anathi is a modern story of love, ambition, and second chances. Anathi, a determined woman, is set on balancing a thriving career, motherhood, and a lasting romance. But an unplanned pregnancy years ago altered her path. Now, she partners with rising businessman Frank to land a career-defining deal that could change both their lives. As their partnership turns romantic, Anathi struggles with revealing a secret from her past—one that could jeopardize her future, career, and newfound love.
Directed by Akin Omotoso, the film stars Bokang Phelane, Connie Chiume, Tongayi Chirisa, Yonda Thomas, Rebone Sesing, Bohlale Mokhethi, Keketso Semoko, and Farieda Matsileng. Produced by Rethabile Molatela Mothobi, with Terry Phetho and Maps Maponyane as executive producers, Courting Anathi promises an emotionally charged journey of love, ambition, and self-discovery.
Sebata: The Beast
Sebata: The Beast is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into fear, faith, and the desperation that drives people to unthinkable choices. Veteran detective Mzi and his skeptical young partner, Kgoro, are on the hunt for a ruthless killer targeting children. While all signs point to a sinister witch doctor, Banda, chilling whispers of the mythical Tokoloshi blur the lines between reality and superstition. For Kgoro, the case becomes deeply personal as he grapples with memories of his mother’s mysterious death. As the murders continue and tensions rise, a desperate man named Philemon emerges—willing to make an unthinkable sacrifice to save his dying wife. But with another child lost, Kgoro’s obsession with Banda could lead him down a dangerous path, pushing him further from the truth.
Directed by Norman Maake, the film features a talented cast including Lilitha Mzizi, Mirriam “Mimi” Mamabolo, Mfanukhona Sithole, Prisca Motswatswa, Ndumiso Zenzile, Nkosinathi Keswa, Zanele Mbatha, and Karabo Choshi. Sebata: The Beast promises a chilling exploration of belief, fear, and the dark secrets lurking in the shadows.
Timmy the Kid
Timmy the Kid is a heartwarming family comedy about an eccentric middle-aged farmer with cowboy dreams who embarks on a chaotic city adventure. Tasked with scattering his late mother’s ashes, Timmy finds himself completely out of his depth in the fast-paced urban world. From booking an Airbnb to navigating the unfamiliar streets, his well-meaning efforts hilariously backfire at every turn. But amidst the confusion and unexpected mishaps, Timmy forges new friendships, proving that even in the most unlikely places, personal growth and self-discovery are possible.
Starring Kenneth Nkosi as the lovable Timmy, the film also features Lillian Dube, Sandile Mahlangu, and Celeste Ntuli. Directed by father-and-son duo Gray and Ziggy Hofmeyr and produced by Nyikiwe Mathye of Mirror Effect Media, Timmy the Kid delivers a feel-good blend of laughter, heart, and unforgettable moments.
Ben Made It
In the midst of a deadly disease outbreak, a determined lab janitor and devoted father sets out on a desperate mission to save his gravely ill 9-year-old daughter. Having already lost his girlfriend to the epidemic, he refuses to stand by as more lives are claimed. Though unqualified, his relentless search for a cure puts him at odds with a powerful pharmaceutical cartel, turning his fight for his daughter’s survival into a dangerous battle against corruption and control.
Directed by Pheello PJ Makosholo, the gripping drama stars Marcus Mabusela, Wayne Van Rooyen, Jose Domingos, Khutjo Green, Eve Rasimeni, Nkopane Mohola, and Azania Thella. The film is produced by Thabang Mathumetse and Thapelo “Moleft” Dikhutso, promising a suspenseful and emotionally charged story of love, sacrifice, and resilience.
In Summary
The 7th edition of the Joburg Film Festival is from 11-16 March 2025 at Sandton Convention Center.
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