The prospects of turning the Free State into a film and television production hub have been bolstered with the formation of an interim committee tasked with exploring such possibilities. This is an initiative of the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (DSACR).
This followed a consultative meeting with established role players held on 30 and 31 March in Bloemfontein. They include film and television producers, directors and editors, as well as playwrights.
Those elected to serve on the interim Free State Film Steering Committee are: Maboreng Maharaswa, Refilwe Mochoari, Dikeledi Mtimkulu, Monyane Tekateka, Morena Berries, Thomas Malebatso, Motlatsi Mofokeng, Molefi Sompane and Lazarus Mkhunazi, as well as Tony Kgoroge, a top actor from Bloemfontein.
Kgoroge said the measures being taken to establish the Free State as the heart of film and television production was an enterprising move.
“This is long overdue for the province, though,” he believes.
“We hope to see a realistic plan of action this time around, rather than talking about plans or the intensions thereof.”
In order to achieve this, creatives will be equipped with knowledge on how to develop innovative methods of storytelling, how to access funding, and how to distribute their work in order to shape a socially responsible motion picture industry.
Tankiso Zola, spokesperson for the DSACR, said the interim committee would work with the department and other film stakeholders towards the establishment of the Free State Film Commission in the next financial year.
He said the commissions’ primary mandate would be to advocate for the interests of Free State film-makers and establish relationships with any local or international stakeholders who may contribute to the development and promotion of the film industry in the province.
“The summit also assessed the extent to which the current or emerging legislation and policies either enhance or hinder the transformation and development of the film and television industry in South Africa. Key recommendations will be put together towards a five-year implementation plan,” said Zola.
He said the efforts to form a provincial film commission was aligned with a commitment made by the premier of the Free State, Mxolisi Dukwana, during his maiden State of the Province Address (Sopa) at the end of February.
