Man oh Man: Thabang Moleya

Entrepreneur and film director THABANG MOLEYA, 35, talks about how his upbringing led him on a journey in the film industry.

The South African movie industry is growing rapidly, thanks to the constant evolution of technology and the great filmmakers dominating the scene. Thabang ‘Kagiso’ Moleya is one of them, a filmmaker, actor and director, who finds himself in the thick of things. Born in Tembisa, he’s the eldest of three kids. Thabang entered the film industry when he was just 15 years old – he hosted the kids show K-TV on MNet. His love for TV and film took over his life, and made it an easy choice to attend the National School Of The Arts, where he majored in arts. The director has won multiple awards, including the Best Short Film at Sithenghi Film Festival (Jameson Award). He’s directed some of South Africa’s most popular soapies, including Jacob’s Cross , Zone 14 and The Lab. His big break came when he directed his first feature film, Happiness Is A FourLetter Word, which starred Khanyi Mbau, Renate Stuurman and Mmabatho Montsho. The film drew more than 45 000 viewers on its first three days at the cinema. The movie also went on to get him a nomination at the Africa Movie Academy Awards for Best First Feature Film by a Director.

Thabang’s CV is very impressive: he’s worked for production companies that created TV commercials for brands such as MTN, KFC, DStv, and Debonairs. After making a name for himself in the TV and film industry, he co-founded a production company, Seriti, which is his biggest milestone so far, he states.

Pinning down this busy director proved to be a challenge as his schedule is jampacked. When I finally sat down with him for a chat, he opened up about his joyful childhood, the essential attributes needed to be a filmmaker and director, and his plans to grow Seriti, which he co-owns with three business partners.

Where did the passion and drive for filmmaking start for you?

“I’ve always been a storyteller. I grew up in a family where I was the eldest. I have

two younger sisters, who I always had to keep entertained. We used to hire a lot of movies back in the days, and so my love for films came from spending time with my family. When I got into

K-TV , I was already aware of the industry. Between myself and two other K-TV presenters, we started writing short films and shooting concepts on weekends.”

Tell us about your experience as a K-TV presenter.

“When you’re young and on a set, it doesn’t really feel like you’re working. I think because I was young, I didn’t really realise how big the scale and size of the production was. I just loved being there, entertaining people.”

You grew up in Tembisa, a black township where, unfortunately, exposure to careers beyond the likes of medicine or teaching is limited. What inspired you to choose film making?

“Both my parents are forward thinkers; they’ve always encouraged us to do what we loved. My dad was an artist, so I just followed in his footsteps. Even after I got into the National School of Arts where I majored in arts, I found myself gravitating towards photography and anything that was film-related. So, growing up, we didn’t have to conform to what society dictated. We followed our hearts, and our parents were very supportive of whatever decision we made.”

You’ve directed many different soapies in South Africa. Where do you get the inspiration to make each one authentic and unique?

“The scripts of the soapies I’ve directed were all written so well. I think the main inspiration and success comes from being aligned with the right production companies, producers and creators who aren’t scared to create groundbreaking drama series. Obviously, working with channels that are supportive is also important. It’s about embracing new experiences and making the most out of every situation.”

Happiness Is A Four-Letter Word was a major success. Let’s talk about that whole experience.

“Whilst I was shooting Happiness Is A Four

Letter Word, I wasn’t aware that it would be such a big movie. I just made it a project where I’d do my absolute best to deliver the best product possible. The response from South African audiences was absolutely amazing. Credit also has to go out to the team behind the film – the producers , actresses and cinematographer. It worked out because we wanted it to be great. It was literally divine intervention and God’s hand at play. As my first movie, I was completely humbled by the fact that it was well received. I look forward to making more.”

You then received a nomination for Best First Feature Film by a Director at the Africa Movie Academy Award. Even though you didn’t win, the nomination must have been a huge pat on the back.

“The thing about it is, I don’t work for awards. I’ve won some and lost others. The ones I’ve won I forget about and some I remember. I don’t create my work for awards and I think the most important thing for me is to stay true to whatever project I tackle. I have to give it all I’ve got to make sure I can deliver beyond my own limitations. That nomination was a blessing but, like I said, I don’t work for that kind of recognition. I just strive to be the best version of myself.”

What makes a great production, the elements needed to make great commercials and movies?

“It’s about the team you surround yourself with. You need people who will challenge you and question your decisions because they want you to do better than what you already have in mind.”

What was it like being one of the judges on the SABC 3 show, Final Cut?

“I’ve always been vocal and passionate about opening up the entertainment and movie industry. Getting young, fresh talent and giving exposure to really talented actors who are not given the opportunity to break into the industry is very important to me. Being a judge on The Final

Cut felt like an opportunity to unearth talent from different parts of South Africa.”

What advice would you give to young film directors who look up to you?

“Work hard. But the major decider for me is your attitude. If you’re a hard worker but you have a horrible attitude, no one will want to work with you. Treat yourself and others with respect. Respect other people’s time and profession.”

You have accomplished so much already. What does the future hold for you now?

“I feel like I’ve just started. It’s like I’ve been warming up. My biggest accomplishment has to be setting up our own production company, Seriti, which has been running since July 2017. We look forward to the projects we have lined up for this year.”

I know the ladies are dying to know this: is there any special lady in your life?

“I don’t like putting my personal life out there because people feel obligated to comment or feel like they’re a part of your journey. I keep my personal life out of everything.”

Getting young, fresh talent and giving exposure to talented actors who’re not given the opportunity to break into the entertainment industry is very important to me.