Film in Lowveld to highlight the plight of rhino
Production on the film is set to start this month.
MBOMBELA – The Lowveld will be the backdrop for a film about rhino poaching later this month, and a couple of lucky Lowvelders might even score a role in it.
After months of awaiting approval from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), well-known South African film-maker Tonie van der Merwe will finally start production on the film in Mbombela and White River from May 26 to June 26.
Rhino Wars is sure to increase awareness of the grave situation our last few remaining rhino are in. “It will not only be an action-packed film with violent shooting scenes,” said Van der Merwe. “It will be more of a romantic drama which plays off against the background of poaching.
“There is also a strong spiritual undertone to the film, which we hope will make people realise our contribution as humans to the decrease in the numbers of these animals.”
The film’s title is being reconsidered due to a lack of international knowledge about what a “rhino” is. “We have discovered that many Europeans do now know what a rhino is,” he said. “If people don’t know what the title means it might be detrimental to the overall purpose of the film.”
The cast will consist of local actors mostly, including Francois Jacobs, Janél Jordaan and Adriaan van As. There is, however, also an opportunity for aspiring actors from the Lowveld to land a small role in the film.
“We might need one or two locals to feature. Those who would be interested should keep an eye on the media for more information about the auditions.”
