South African feature film “Don’t Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight” will be screened at the renowned Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in Canada this week.
The annual event, which started on Thursday, September 5, and will run until Sunday, September 14, is known for its celebration of innovative film-making and its commitment to fostering global storytelling.
The Mzansi movie produced by Rose and Oaks Media. The production company, which is dedicated to creating authentic and compelling stories for international audiences, was founded by Anele Mdoda and her 947 breakfast show co-host Frankie Du Toit and Paul Buys.
Helmed by Embeth Davidtz making her directorial debut, the movie has gained attention for its intriguing story, stellar cast and unique cinematography.
It made its first public screening at the prestigious Telluride International Film Festival in Colorado in the US at the end of August and has been described by industry critics as a “harsh, intense character drama with no one coming out unscathed”.
The film has also been lauded for spotlighting its profound connection to Davidtz’s South African heritage.
“Don't Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight” is based on the New York Times best-seller of the same title, written by Alexandra Fuller. It is based on her 2001 memoir about the experiences of her white Zimbabwean family following the Rhodesian Bush War.
The movie stars 8-year-old newcomer, Lexi Venter, as the lead character named Bobo, with Davidtz portraying the role of Nicola, the grief-filled mother. The rest of the cast includes Zikhona Bali, Fumani N Shilubana, Rob van Vuuren and Anina Reed.
It will make its Canadian premiere at the festival on Thursday, September 12.
"Making the film has been a gratifying experience,” Davidtz said in a statement.
“This incredible story has been brought to life by the richness of Southern Africa’s history and heritage.”
Buys added: "We are incredibly honoured to see one of our productions featured at such prestigious film festivals such as Telluride and Toronto.
“This project has been a journey for us and the film speaks to our commitment to telling groundbreaking stories that resonate deeply, not just with South African audiences but with a global viewership.”
Mdoda, who is the film’s executive producer, said they were thrilled to be showcasing their work to an international audience.
“We relish our collaboration with directors that have such distinctive creative voices as Embeth Davidtz,” she said.
Rose and Oaks Media, which is making a name for itself, thanks to its high-quality productions that resonate across borders, also brought viewers productions such as “The Masked Singer South Africa”, Netflix’s “Ludik” and “Ready, Steady, Cook South Africa”.
The participation of the organisation in Telluride has been made possible with the support of the Department of Trade and Industry.
The department’s representative said: “It is a matter of immense pride for South Africa to see our film-makers represented on such a prestigious platform.
“The global recognition of South African talent at TIFF not only showcases the strength of our creative industry but also highlights our cultural richness.
“We are thrilled to support this momentous occasion."