FOLLOWING the global call for social distancing to slow down the spread of Covid-19, and now the countrywide South African lockdown, production companies worldwide have sought alternative means to distribute recently released and upcoming films, and so too, the team behind critically acclaimed film, Moffie.
A few weeks ago, the film’s producer, Eric Abraham, as well as director Oliver Hermanus, started a process of creating a Plan B as an alternative means for people to watch the film at home.
As from last week, Moffie, the story of a young conscript who battles to survive compulsory military service in apartheid-South Africa while coming to terms with his sexual orientation, will be available to stream online.
According to Hermanus, Abraham suggested a back-up plan for the film’s release and distribution well before the spread of the virus started to pick up speed and South Africa’s first case was reported. “We really want you all to see Moffie, and over the last few weeks set up a system to bring our film to the safety of your home,” said Hermanus. “You may be stuck indoors, so hopefully we can keep you entertained.”
Since its South African release the film has been a major critical success, receiving five-star reviews from major publications nationwide.
Terry van der Walt from the Sunday Independent said: “Don’t be put off by the name of the movie, because it actually deals with so much more than gay men surviving the army experience. It is about the human condition, and the frightful things we’re subjected to in life, and the unspoken truths about men and how they relate to each other.”
There are a few things to take note of prior to your purchase of a ticket to stream the film online. Tickets cost R150 per viewing, and are valid to use for 24 hours from the time of purchasing. The film can only be watched once from start to finish, but you can press pause at any time during the 24-hour period. However, if you navigate away from the current viewing (e.g. close the tab or browser, refresh the page, restart your computer) your session will be lost, and your ticket invalid.
Visit www.moffiefilm.com/stream to stream the film now. Visit: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoffieFilm/ or Instagram: @MoffieFilm.
