Movie on MK’s Solomon Mahlangu to be released soon

told the Saturday Star.

Rametsi, who portrays the struggle stalwart in the forthcoming local historic biopic, said the cast and crew had to dig deep to learn more about Mahlangu for the film.

“Bra Mandla Dube took us through the young man’s life story. We went to his place of birth, initiation and home. I interacted with his family a lot.

“His brother, Chief Lucas Mahlangu, was the chief adviser on the film. He was part of the informative journey. We spoke to former comrades and commanders too.”

After a 10-year wait the film based on the life and execution of the anti-apartheid activist will finally be released at local cinemas next weekend. The film, which stars Jafta Mamabolo, Rametsi and Pearl Thusi, has been featured at a number of international film festivals around the world.

It is hoped that the movie will resonate with many South Africans especially after the recent student protests across the country.

In 1977, Mahlangu – an Umkhonto we Sizwe cadre – was accused on charges of murder and terrorism. Subsequently, he was executed by hanging in 1979 provoking international protests and condemnation of South Africa’s then internal policy.

The feature film took director and co-writer Dube nearly 10 years to make.

“It took a while to even start shooting the film after I was cast. Funding and budget was the biggest issue,” said Rametsi. His portrayal of Mahlangu in the movie Kalushi was Rametsi’s first lead role in a film.

“I was pretty prepared and vested in the project. I was young so retrospectively I recognise the mistakes I made and won’t make them again,” he added.

In September last year the local actor picked up the award for best actor for his portrayal of Mahlangu at the inaugural Brics Film Festival in India.

But Rametsi is quick to deflect the attention from him- self and instead praised his co-stars, especially Thusi who plays Mahlangu’s girlfriend in the film.

“Pearl is an incredible human being. She has a light in her that brightens the depths of the people she cares for.

“Working with her was a joy. She really took it seriously like she does everything in her life. I wouldn’t have picked another leading lady if I had every actress in the world to pick from.”