‘Vir Altyd’ proves local is lekker as film is top of SA box office
HOME-GROWN romantic adventure film Vir Altyd has claimed the coveted No1 spot in earnings at the South African box office for Afrikaans films – and shown that audiences enjoy feel-good offerings with a heartfelt message.
After only four weeks on circuit it has earned R13.4-million, exceeding all its predecessors.
Produced by the same team behind the highly successful Pad Na Jou Hart, Vir Altyd tells the story of Hugo (Ivan Botha) and Nina (Donnalee Roberts), who grew up as best friends despite her family’s misgivings. The two lose contact when a tragic incident changes their lives forever, only to meet up again 10 years later when Nina is about to marry Retief (Stiaan Smith).
When her fairytale comes to an abrupt end, Nina and Hugo decide to travel to Mauritius as “bride” and “bridegroom”. But, all the while, they are confronted by painful memories and strong emotions.
On the island they realise, after embarking on several adventures and meeting other couples, that it is not always about the happy ending, but about the journey there.
Elize Cawood, Wilson Dunster, Illse Roos, Dirk Stoltz, Laré Birk, Deidre Wolhuter, Andre Jacobs, André Stolz, Sans Moonsamy, Nicky de Kock, Caylem Else and Hèléne Truter also appear in the film. Commenting on Vir Altyd’s box office success Botha and Roberts – its writers, co-producers and leading actors – said: “It’s a great honour and privilege for us to reach this milestone. The feedback has been overwhelming and we appreciate it endlessly. We hope the support for Vir Altyd will build momentum for all the upcoming local films that will be released this year, in order for our South African film industry to go from strength to strength.”
Danie Bester, co-producer, said: “What an inspiration to have followed Liefling for so long as a beacon; what an exciting privilege to have set a new milestone.”
Vir Altyd was produced by 17FilmStreetMedia and The Film Factory and is distributed by Ster-Kinekor Entertainment.