The most anticipated weekend in the filmmaking industry took place from 27 to 29 September 2024 as 162 hopeful teams embarked on a thrilling challenge of the 48 Hour Film Project.
Talented filmmakers from across South Africa raced against the clock to write ,shoot and edit short films, pushing their creativity and storytelling abilities to the limit. Contestants were given the opportunity to shoot in their respective locations.
The top 10 films will then secure a place at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in France in 2025.
Ayanda Mhlongo, who grew up in a small township in Newcastle is one such contestant who is keen on making his mark and jetting off to France to showcase his talent on a global scale.
The 25 year old spoke exclusively to Spotlight On Newcastle, saying that his passion for the industry began as early as primary school when an educator , Mr Nyamane encouraged him to perform at school events.
“In 2012, I joined the Youth Express Network Group under the guidance of Mbali Nkomonde, where I learned more about the arts. My interest then piqued and I then started doing stand-up comedy with my friend Sphesihle Thwala, winning two awards in 2018,” he said.
In 2020 Ayanda then met Senzeni Mlambo who taught him all about the theatre industry. Together, the duo traveled extensively and won many awards.
“My journey into filmmaking started in 2019 when I worked with Ndlovu Dikida Production on the 48 Hour Film Project. It was then that I met City Producer Narusha Maharaj Sadepal who has since become my mentor,” he said.
The comedian turned filmmaker has attributed his invaluable experience since working with VNSA Network and exploring digital entrepreneurship while studying administration in Foe Foundation under the Cattsitaprogram.
Ayanda’s short film was inspired by people within the rural community.
“The inspiration came from the way the Zulu community honors and respects young girls who take care of their virginity. This cultural pride and recognition motivated me to explore deeper themes related to tradition, identity and the strength of young women in my work,” he said.
Nerusha Maharaj Sadapal (City Producer) and Communications Unit Officer for The 48 Hour Film Project Durban 2024 said that 162 teams participated in the project.
“This is and international film competition whereby contestants make a short film in 48 hours, whoever wins here will represent us internationally to compete against the other city winners from 140 cities around the world. The top 10 film will then be identified to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival. This year we saw teams entering from throughout Kwa-Zulu Natal and the rest of the country. We were also excited to have teams from Lesotho, Nigeira and even Ukraine participate in our chapter.,” said Nerusha.
The awards ceremony will take place on 27 October 2024 featuring 30 different award categories and the overall winner will represent South Africa internationally.
In the meantime , our very own Newcastle filmmaker Ayanda Mhlongo will focus on growing his small production company, continuing to help the young generation through the acting, music and film industry.
Spotlight On Newcastle together with the local community wishes Ayanda well in the competition and congratulates him for shining a light on our beautiful city!
Photo Credit : Optics Photography
Good work
Wow! Take us to the world my boy. I knew since you grew there was something big that is gonna come from you. I wish all our youth will learn from you especially those who are involved in dark activities we hear day in and day out that this is our way to win back our neighborhood.
Well done brother. Keep striving
I’m an upcoming filmmaker
We’ve learned a lot about arts industry on shooting a 48 hour filming. It’s a pleasure to be part of the it,because it have sharpened us as growing artist on the industry. Still looking forward to be working with Ayanda Mhlongo continuously.
Awesome job mate, well done.
A HUGE Bravo Ayanda…. I admire You!!! Best of luck for the future, GOD bless You…