What to expect?
Prior to viewing the film, attendees can buy a
range of refreshments whilst being privy to cool
jams and great conversation.
A convivial Akin Omatoso introduces the
audience to the film and its’ creators once
everyone is seated. The films that are screened are
from a variety of genres, but always of superior
quality. Fortunately, independent filmmakers do
not fall under the pressure of overusing storylines
and themes, as per organizer, Katarina Hedren,
because of not having to worry about falling in
line with the mainstream circuit. Hedren also
mentions that there is a lot of talent in Africa and
firmly believes in the fact that these films need
a platform and audience, as encouragement for
her involvement in this initiative. Omatoso and
Hedren watch every film before it is allowed on
this stage, as they have the desire to maintain
a high standard of films that will suit their
audience.
After the screening, audience members have
a Q&A session with the director or producer
of the film and are even able to see the cast if
they are available. As if the film club was not
enough of a pleasure to attend, the Q&A session
is followed by refreshments and snacks on the
house.
As a fan of the club, I can safely say the screening
on the first Wednesday every month is not for
networking filmmakers only.
If you have ever been to the movies and realized
you know exactly how the movie is going to end,
take a sho’t left to Atlas Studios and unwind to
some superior local talent.
As per their website, “What started as an initiative
aiming to encourage young filmmakers to share
their work, be exposed to films of different
genres, network and be creatively inspired has
grown to become an institution.”
Screening takes place at 19:30 at Atlas Studios
in Aukland Park on the first Wednesday of every
month, excluding January 2015. Wednesday, 4
February, is a date!
By Nobusi Maqubela
57
IMBO/ ISSUE 32/ '14