New drama set to rival ‘ Muvhango ’
THE onslaught continues in TV land with the debut tonight of Matatiele drama series on e.tv, shot on location in the Eastern Cape town.
Directed by Rolie Nikiwe, who has two Saftas to his credit for Intersex
ions and Inside Story, the show is a salvo fired at Muvhango, that airs on SABC2 at 9pm on weekdays.
Last month the free to air channel took on SABC1 ’ s Generations: The Legacy with the telenovela Ashes to Ashes. It also launched Umlilo on Mondays during Muvhango ’ s slot.
Meanwhile Nikiwe said he was more curious than nervous about competing with Muvhango. “I think it will work. But I could be wrong. I ’ m more curious than I am nervous, to see if people will like it,” he said.
Monde Twala, managing director for e.tv channels division, said Matatiele was a culturally profound local show. “We are broadening storytelling to be more inclusive of smaller provinces. This will also create a dynamic story and a balanced view of life across South Africa,” he said.
The series is based on two families – the Monahengs, who are Sotho, and the Xhosa Sangqus. The two are forced to bury a centuries-old hatchet as two of their children fall in love.
With great cinematography, the drama portrays the beauty of Matatiele ’ s rolling green hills and natural charm. The story is lifted by the good acting by newcomers and veterans such as Motshabi Tyelele, Mike Mvelase, Charmaine Dini-Mtinta and Mothusi Chebeletsane.
Nikiwe said they have been shooting for two months, with problems that included the weather and service delivery protests.