In a significant milestone for South African cinema, Diprente, one of the country’s leading television and film production companies, has announced that its feature film SABBATICAL will be available for exclusive streaming on Amazon Prime across Sub-Saharan Africa.
This pivotal acquisition reflects the growing global recognition of South African talent and storytelling, bolstering the region’s cinematic landscape. SABBATICAL, which marks the feature directorial debut of Karabo Lediga, is a compelling and bittersweet drama that centres on Lesego, a fierce corporate climber whose seemingly unshakeable career faces a dramatic turn when a scandal shrouds her professional life.
Exiled to her childhood home, she grapples with the complexities of her relationship with her formidable mother, played by the remarkable Mona Monyane, and confronts the profound costs of her relentless ambition. “This film speaks to the heart of what it means to compromise oneself in the pursuit of success,” Lediga shares. “It’s a story of redemption, family, and self-discovery.”
Monyane, known for her dynamic performances in Muvhango and Kalushi, delivers a career-defining portrayal, capturing the multifaceted nature of a mother desperate to guide her daughter through the pitfalls of ambition. The film showcases an impressive ensemble cast including Clementine Mosimane, recognised for her roles in Poppie Nongena and How to Ruin Christmas, as Lesego’s relentless mother, Doris. The talented Loyiso Gola, stepping away from his usual comedic roles, portrays investigator Percy Mthimkhulu, adding depth and nuance to this powerfully crafted narrative.
Rounding out the cast are Seputla Sebogodi, Tsholofelo Maseko, Craig Urbani, and Tinah Mnumzana, each delivering breathtaking performances that enrich the film’s emotional tapestry.
Since its world premiere at the prestigious International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) in February, where it earned a spot on the Top 20 Audience Choice List, SABBATICAL has garnered critical acclaim. Thereafter, it opened in South African cinemas to enthusiastic reviews, and it was also showcased at Germany’s Lichter Film Festival.
Following its remarkable festival circuit, the film is set to make waves in North America with its upcoming premiere at the BlackStar Film Festival in Philadelphia this August, where it has been shortlisted for the Jury Prize. The acquisition by Amazon Prime will undoubtedly enhance the film’s visibility, allowing wider access for audiences eager to engage with authentic South African stories. This move not only highlights the film’s stunning portrayal of personal and cultural narratives but also underscores the increasing demand for diverse content in the global streaming marketplace.
Picture: Supplied