New Netflix film premieres in Komani
‘Kings of Queenstown’ focuses on soccer-playing family
Komani hosted its first ever movie premiere of The Queenstown Kings, an inspirational film set in the world of football that will be released on Netflix next Friday, November 17.
The premiere was held at Ndaba Golf Lodge in Komani, with a select few locals invited to view the film with the cast and crew.
The Yellowbone Entertainment production, which was shot in Komani, Ezibeleni, and Mlungisi last July, explores the role of a father in his son’s quest to pursue his dreams.
The film, set in a small township, highlights the importance of community and family support in achieving one’s goals.
From start to finish, the audience was captivated by the dramatic and lighthearted scenes, often bursting into laughter. The movie kept viewers engaged throughout, with its compelling and well-acted storyline.
Renowned SA actor Zolisa Xaluva who played the role of a soccer star turned to coach described his character, Buyile ‘Terror’ Mahamba, as an extrovert, which was a stark contrast to Xaluva’s own reserved nature.
“I think I am little bit shy compared to him. I am grateful for the opportunity that I had to portray this wonderful character who deals with the serious subject of fatherhood. I believe that fathers are really important for us.
“I loved his journey so much growing from a drunkard to realising that there is an opportunity for him to change and become better and that he can use his son as a vessel of taking him to the next realm of his life. It is really inspirational character for me.”
Xaluva, who grew up in Gqebera but moved to Pretoria at the age of 11,
said his journey to becoming a renowned actor started small.
“The joy of this cast is to be seen as a mentor, as someone who can give a hand up to others. Nothing gives me more joy than to come to the Eastern Cape every now and then to shoot a film.”
Mdantane’s Likhona Mgali, who plays Mahamba’s son Fezile, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play his first role.
“One of the characteristics I share with Fezile was him fighting to reach his dream. Shooting the film was fun, enjoyable and I loved every moment of it. The cast made it easy for me, because this was my first acting role.”
He added that where he came from opportunities such as this were barely there.
“I know of so many people who have talent in soccer and rugby who never go far. This is a privilege for me which I will make use of.”
Sarel Smit, a local star, got his big break when a friend who was working as a tow truck driver on the set of the movie informed him that a role for a white rugby player.
Smit seized the opportunity, despite having no prior experience as an actor.
He admitted to feeling nervous and overwhelmed on set, but the cast and crew were supportive and patient with him.
“I have never been a fan of soccer, I am into rugby.
“Going into the production as a rugby player opened my eyes about soccer and being part of a community and playing together,” he said.
Film executive producer Lyla Swart said shooting in Komani was unpredictable, which required them to turn the experience into something better than what they wanted to do.
“It was one of the most challenging journeys; I believe it is one of the first productions to be shot in Komani.
“For us, it is not just about choosing locations to come to the Eastern Cape. It is all about integrating a very specific cultural mandate.
“It is about preserving a language and exploring the culture in which this region is unique to its own.”
Swart said Netflix funded the film, which will air on Netflix next Friday November 17.
She indicated that they were also supported by Nedbank, the department of trade industry and competition, The National Film and Video Foundation and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation.
“We brought Nedbank in because the film centres on the Nedbank Cup, one of the most prominent cups in Africa,” Swart said.
Film director and screenwriter Jahmil XT Qubeka said the Eastern Cape had great potential for the film industry. However, he emphasised that more investment and support were needed to fully realise this potential.
He believed that with the right conditions, the Eastern Cape would develop in the film industry.
Smit noted that although the production team did not spend much time in Komani, they were able to utilise and support the local economy during the filming process. He mentioned that this was a great opportunity for the town.
“In the Western Cape, you cannot pull out a camera anywhere without being charged for it being asked for a receipt and for what you are there for.
“This because there is way we derive value from what we do. But it requires the hard work. You have seen how it goes so let’s get the infrastructure, so that you derive the proper value of it,” Qubeka said.