The two learned about the craft through research from the Internet, as well as volunteering on the set of various productions.
They shot their first film titled Victim of Abuse in 2012, and sold it to Mnet. It was aired to viewers of the station on February 22.
Ntlhaekgosi says it took two months to shoot the film The Victim, and six months of post-production.
“The film is about a young man whose father abuses him, as well as terrorises the community, therefore, turning young people into gangsters. In order to bring peace, and to prove that he is not like his father, he kills him,” explains Ntlhaekgosi.
Mbali Nkosi (29) is one of the cast members of the film and plays Mrs Ndlovu, the school teacher.
She says the film sends out a strong message.
“The film has a positive message with regards to drugs and abuse to the youth,” says Nkosi.
Thejane says all cast members in the film are from Reiger Park and the entire film was shot in the township.
Ntlhaekgosi is the producer, and Thejane is the director and scriptwriter of the film.
They both come from struggling families, and met at an acting agency.
“When I approached Mpho with my film ideas, I actually thought he had money, only to find that he was broke like me,” jokes Ntlhaekgosi.
With their hunger for success, the two started a company called Psy Entertainment Management, which they hope to use as a platform to educate and mentor young people.
They would like to build a media empire, broadcasting their own stories, and teaching young people about working behind the scenes and not just in front of the camera.
“Psy is not yet financially stable, and equipment is hired out each time we film. We are hoping to get funding to build our dream,” says Thejane.
“Film is our life, nothing else makes sense, this is what makes us happy. We make films to change lives and not for the money,” says Ntlhaekgosi.
