SAFTA Nominees on DStv and Showmax
The 13th annual SAFTA Awards are set to take place on 2 March at Sun City and MultiChoice is leading the nominations, for the second year in a row. The Awards recognise the very best of local programming, and 1Magic’s popular telenovela The River has bagged an incredible 17 nominations while Mzansi Magic’s Isibaya comes in closely behind with nine nominations.
Afrikaans channel kykNET received 60 nominations (collectively) while M-Net’s local reality shows also received plenty of recognition. Not to be outdone, Showmax received a total of seven nominations. Just proof once again that MultiChoice is providing the best local entertainment in Africa. The exciting news for fans of these solid gold nominees is many are returning in new seasons. Lockdown will be back in its fourth season alongside the second season of The Herd, in April, Hotel will return for a new season early next year. More exciting news on upcoming seasons and new shows will announced soon.
She is King and Kanarie are two very different but equally unmissable local movies on screen this month, showcasing the incredible talent this country has to offer once again. She is King is on 1Magic and Kanarie is available to rent on BoxOffice. And speaking of local, home girl Charlize Theron makes a sterling, and highly praised appearance in the M-Net Saturday movie Gringo.
Crime + Investigation’s special documentary Rose McGowan: Being Brave takes the #MeToo movement to a different level, as she honestly, and bravely, reveals how coming forward has transformed her life – and how she wouldn’t change a thing. This is the third documentary from Crime and Investigation dealing with sexual harassment and the abuse of celebrity in Hollywood this month. The first was Surviving R Kelly followed by The Harvey Weinstein Scandal.
LOCAL
She is King, Friday, 15 February, 1Magic, 21:30
A young girl from a rural South African village travels to Johannesburg in search of fame in this locally made movie. She is cast in a play about Zulu Queen Mkabayi, Shaka’s aunt, and finds herself at the mercy of the jealous leading lady, while trying to survive this strange new world while remaining connected to her culture. Idols SA contestant, Gugu Zulu stars in the leading role.
Carte Blanche, Sunday, 17 February, M-Net, 19:00
Emalahleni in Mpumalanga is the world’s largest nitrogen dioxide hotspot across six continents. Carte Blanche investigates what local governments can do to respond to this public health crisis.
Then, meet Don Madge, no stranger to fans of EFC, who find himself on the precipice of the opportunity of a lifetime. A talented Muay Thai fighter, he wants to take his shot at glory inside the fabled UFC octagon. South African fighter have struggled to make the jump from EFC to UFC but Madge signed his UFC contract in 2018 and won his first fight in October. He is training for his next bout in April. Carte Blanche meets the up and coming fighter, showcasing the desire and dedication required to make it to the top of the fastest growing sport in the world.
kykNET Verslag in Gesprek, Monday, 18 February, kykNET, 21:30
Seasoned journalist Waldimar Pelser brings viewers up to speed on all the current affairs you need to know about. Politicians, authorities and industry experts are brought into the studio to share their opinions. Waldimar has been nominated for a SAFTA for Best TV Presenter. @Waldimar said he was, “Absolutely delighted and honoured to be nominated for a @SAFTAS1 for best TV presenter for @KNverslag In Gesprek!”
Jou Sondagdrama: Bottervisse in die Jem, Sunday, 17 February, kykNET, 20:00
Based on Deon Meyer’s short story, this charming movie revolves around a cynical artist whose world is turned upside down when a wise young boy arrives at his studio. He starts to confront past emotions and to heal.
Yobe S2, Saturday, 16 February, 1Magic, 20:00
Forgiveness is at the core of this touching South African docu-reality show which is all about giving offenders the chance to engage with victims of their crimes or their victim’s families.
Nkululeko, Thursday, 14 February, Showmax
Nkululeko has a special talent for maths, which could help him escape the impoverished streets of Khayelitsha. But a fateful moment of passion might cost him everything in this gripping coming-of-age movie.
Skelmpie, Wednesday, 20 February, kykNET, 20:30
Annelize and Madi join Rian van Heerden in studio to chat about their relationship. Find out what makes them tick and why they consider themselves to be a controversial couple. Then, meet Jan, who’s having a relationship with a woman but thinks he might prefer men.
Isithembiso S2, Friday, 15 February, Mzansi Magic, 19:30
Danger is always lurking around the corner for this group of young students. The strike spirals out of control, forcing Kero to take drastic action. Meanwhile, Simi makes a decision that will affect her studies in a big way. This gripping youth series has been nominated for five SAFTA Awards.
Isibaya S6, Friday, 15 February, Mzansi Magic, 20:30
There’s never a dull moment in this Mzansi Magic gem. Lillian’s life is on the line, forcing Beauty into a difficult position. Still battling with his own demons, Mpiyakhe’s investigation of Ngwebedla leads to another dead end. Isibaya received 13 SAFTA nominations, including Most Popular TV Soap/Telenovela and Best Soap as well as Best Actress for Nomzamo Mbatha as Thandeka, and Best Actor for both Pallance Dladla as Jabu and Sdumo Mtshali as Sbu.
The Queen, 15 February, Mzansi Magic, 21:00
As Goodness starts to stand up for herself, it creates even more drama, with Jerry and Vuyiswa not sure whether to believe her or not. Meanwhile, there’s an arrest on the cards, and Mmabatho has an important announcement to make, and gives Shaka an ultimatum. Goodness refused to be bribed – but she has her own idea.
SPORT
Super Rugby: Vodacom Bulls v DHL Stormers at Loftus Versveld, Saturday, 6 February, SuperSport 1
In what will be one of the fiercest Super Rugby battles, the Bulls meet the Stormers at their homeground at Loftus. The ‘gees’ is going to be strong – and the on-field action electric. In the warm-up game at Cape Town Stadium recently the Stormers achieved a narrow victory – but there’s everything to play for.
Emirates FA Cup – Chelsea v Manchester United, Monday, 18 February, SuperSport 2
The last time these two sides met Chelsea scored a last-minute equaliser, so Man United is going to be more determined than ever to show their superiority. But it’s on Chelsea’s home turf, which is never going to be easy.
Sri Lankan Tour of South Africa, Thursday, 21 February, SuperSport 2
The second Test gets underway on Thursday at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth and both teams will be keen to prove their worth. It’s the format of the game that really shows who the strongest players really are, and real cricket fans won’t want to miss a moment.
SuperSport United v Orlando Pirates, Wednesday, 20 February, SuperSport 4
The Buccaneers will be in desperate need of all 3 points away from home to remain in the ABSA Premiership title race when they face Matsatsantsa at Mbombela Stadium.
KIDS
Noobees S1, Monday, 18 February, Nickelodeon, 17:45
Silvia is an independent young girl who must help her brother practise for the Professional Video Game league. Problem is, she’s never been interested in video games but her brother’s dream of being a professional gamer depends on her. Together they create a competition called the NOOBees where other gamers can compete and also Silvia’s brother can get hands-on training.
Mythbuster Jr. S1, Thursday, 21 February, Discovery Channel, 19:00
This American-Australian television programme seeks to debunk all those myths and stereotypes we’ve heard or discarded as old wives’ tales. For instance, is it really that hard to find a needle in a haystack? This and other urban legends will be put to the test in Mythbuster…
The Legend of Sarila, Saturday, 16 February, M-Net, 15:30
This Saturday kid’s movie revolves around three young Inuits who set off on an epic journey when they realise their tribe is at risk of extinction. There is famine in the land and starvation is rampant, however, the promised land they are seeking is said to have all the food supplies the tribe needs, but only a select few can enter.
Floogals S1, Showmax
Three little aliens move in with a human family to learn more about life on Earth. They have to stay hidden, but it’s not easy when you’re so different. From understanding human behaviour to the different food they must now get used to, these three little fellas are intent to have a jolly good time on their learning expedition.
MOVIES
Gringo, Saturday, 16 February, M-Net, 21:00
A dark, action comedy featuring backstabbing and business deals gone wrong amid the Mexican cartel territory. A law-abiding citizen, Harold, finds himself between a rock and a hard place when trying to stay alive and beat the cons at their own game. Charlize Theron plays the evil wife of Harold’s boss. Empire magazine said: “A very funny slice of pulp fiction with a number of stand-out performances, notably the ferocious Theron”.
The Layover, Sunday, 17 February, M-Net, 20:00
Best friends Kate – a mild-mannered schoolteacher – played by Alexandra Daddorio and Meg – a care-free risk-taker – played by Kate Upton, jet off on a tropical holiday. When their flight is redirected due to a hurricane warning, they end up in a hotel in St Louis, going to ‘Misters before Sisters’ extremes to compete for the attentions of a hot stranger (Matt Barr) they met on the flight. Directed by William H Macy, currently on M-Net in Shameless, this is a raucous, naughty comedy!
Wonder Wheel, Monday, 18 February, M-Net Movies Premiere, 20:00
Set on Coney Island in the 1950s, this is the tale of a carousel operator, his wife and his estranged daughter, who is married to a mobster and thus finds herself a ‘marked woman’. The story is told through the eyes of the lifesaver, on Base 7. This Woody Allen-directed film features an all-star cast including Justin Timberlake, Juno Temple, Kate Winslet and James Belushi.
The Deep Blue Sea, Sunday, 17 February, Sundance TV, 20:30
Rachel Weisz (the Favourite) and Tom Hiddleston (The Avengers: Infinity War and The Night Manager) star in this highly acclaimed drama. After World War II, a shell-shocked RAF pilot starts an affair with the wife of judge. She is seeking excitement away from her passionless marriage, while he is looking for an escape from his troubling memories.
INTERNATIONAL SERIES
Blackish S5, Thursday, 21 February, 1Magic, 19:00
The Johnson family is back with a brand-new season showcasing their loveable and hilarious family dynamic. In the season premier, Junior has been accepted to one of the finest universities in America and his parents Dre and Bow are beyond excited about this huge milestone. Junior is ceremoniously dropped off at his varsity res only for him to return home days later, citing he’s not ready for academia and that he’d much rather take a gap year.
NCIS: LA S10, Thursday, 21 February, M-Net, 20:00
LL Cool J delivers tons of action in this award winning undercover special projects drama. In season 10, the team will ensure to infiltrate a terrorist cell, solve the case regarding an elaborate bank heist where a single safe deposit box was stolen, as well as investigate the home invasion of Navy Captain Dean Hadlow.
The Brokenwood Mysteries S3, Sunday, 17 February, Universal TV, 20:00
A fast-paced detective drama based in a fictitious New Zealand town that follows Neill Rea as Detective Mike Shepherd, as he solves a host of mysterious cases in and around Brokenwood. The first episode sees publican Ray Neilson decide to launch a tourist business, taking people on “Lord of the Ringz Tours”, but things fall apart when his wife’s body is discovered under a giant foam spider.
The Crossing S1, Saturday, 16 February, M-Net City, 19:10
Follow the fascinating time-travel story of a community that fled and survived a war that took place 180 years in the future. They must survive in the old world (present day), which now features a race of hybrid humans with super powers, that are determined to wipe out ordinary humans. The first episode sees the refugees wash up on the beach of a small fishing town.
FACTUAL
Rose McGowan: Being Brave, Wednesday, 20 February, Crime + Investigation, 20:50
She was one of the first woman to speak out against the way Harvey Weinstein treated her. Now, Rose McGowan has become a key figure in the #MeToo movement, leading the fight for social justice. This documentary takes you along on her compelling, heart-felt journey to give insight as to why she could no longer remain silent, and what it takes to be brave.
Cassette, Showmax
Cassette inventor Lou Ottens digs through his past to figure out why the audiotape won’t die. Young bands and rock veterans release music on tape as Lou takes a trip down musical memory lane.
Lost Treasures of Egypt S1, Sunday, 17 February, National Geographic, 19:00
An immersive and discovery-led series following international teams of Egyptologists as they unearth the world’s richest seam of ancient archaeology – Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. We follow these modern-day explorers for a full season of excavations and with unprecedented access to the teams on the front line of archaeology. The first episode looks at Tutankhamun’s treasures.
Stacey Dooley – Gypsy Kids in Crisis, Tuesday, 19 February, BBC Brit, 22:15
Hungary has more Roma gypsy kids in institutional care than any other EU country, facing a potential crisis. Stacey Dooley looks into this worrying issue and meets some of the parents, children and social workers on the frontline of Hungary’s child protection system.
REALITY
The Brit Awards 2019, Wednesday, 20 February, BBC Brit, 22:00
DStv has celebrated every glimmering moment of a truly spectacular ‘awards season’ and the next sparkly celeb-fest on the agenda is The Brit Awards. Comedian and actor Jack Whitehall returns as host from London’s O2 Arena, after his debut last year, which saw him unofficially dubbed as the “best host in years” by fans. With several performances lined up by top British artists such as George Ezra and Little Mix, and an opening act from Hugh Jackman performing “The Greatest Showman”, this star-studded event is definitely not one to miss.
Riccanza S1, Thursday, 21 February, MTV, 21:30
Europe’s young and stinking rich are living their best lives, driving the most exclusive luxury cars and wearing only haute couture. This irreverent reality shows takes us behind the champagne and cocktails with the likes of Elettra Miura Lamborghini, nephew of Ferruccio Lamborghini and Gian Maria Sainato, former model, now fashion and lifestyle influencer.
Rich House, Poor House S1, Thursday, 21 February, ITV CHOICE, 21:00
A thought-provoking show that follows two families from opposite ends of the wealth divide as they trade places to find out if money really does buy happiness. In each episode, one family from the richest 10% and another from the poorest 10% swap homes, budgets and lives for a week, following each other’s spending patterns and weekly schedules.
Knight Fight S1, Monday, 18 February, HISTORY, 20:15
Members of the Armored Combat League vie against one other in real-life duels. Part build show, part battle strategy, part mayhem, watch as six contestants compete with customised weaponry and armour in a series of battle challenges to see who has the guts, skill and smarts to win the ultimate Knight Fight.
BOXOFFICE
Kanarie, Friday, 15 February, BoxOffice
With five SAFTA nominations to its name, Kanarie is a local movie that is making its mark, here and around the world. Leon van Nierop gave it five stars and called it, “Vreeslos en Besonders” (fearless and outstanding), while Spling said, “Original, compelling, provocative and powerful”. This film enjoyed a longer than average cinema run in South Africa as audiences just kept filling cinemas, has gone on to sign a theatrical release in the USA and has recently been featured on magazine covers in Australia as it hits the antipodean shores. The film took home five awards at Die Silwerskerm Fees, including ‘Best Director’ and ‘Best Film’, has brought home five more awards from festivals across the USA and ‘Best LGBT Film from the Cape Town Film festival. This unique look at a young man’s journey through conscription to self-discovery is a must-watch movie.
Christopher Robin, Saturday 16 February, BoxOffice
In a story of re-discovery, Christopher Robin’s childhood friends Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore must come out of the wood and into the city in order to remind him of who he is. As Pooh say, “I always get where I’m going by walking away from where I’ve been”, this is definitely a movie worth walking towards for a feel-good reminder of the important things in life.
Read the SAMDB review of Christopher Robin.
Halloween, Monday, 18 February, BoxOffice
It has been 14 years to the day – the day when Laurie’s life changed after her confrontation and narrow escape from masked killer Michael Myers. Myers only preys on his victims on Halloween, and he has never accepted Laurie’s escape. Today he has come to take his pound of flesh – or more than a pound, in fact.
Jamie Lee Curtis has led all five ‘Halloween’ movies since the original in 1978 and this one boasted the honour of posting the biggest opening weekend for a film with a 55+ woman as lead, opening at $77,5 million! “Jamie Lee Curtis is an absolute force of nature in this film,” said Universal Domestic Distribution President Jim Orr. Jamie Lee Curtis allowed herself a little boast tweet, pointing out that this was, “Biggest horror movie opening with a female lead. Biggest movie opening with a female lead over 55. Second biggest October movie opening ever. Biggest Halloween opening ever #womengetthingsdone.
The Super, Friday, 15 February, BoxOffice
When Phil accepted the position of being the superintendent of a large New Yok City high rise apartment, he had no idea of the history of its tenants or how more than one has mysteriously disappeared without a trace. He casts his suspicions on the old, reclusive maintenance guy, and with his daughters’ lives at stake, Phil battles an evil entity that’s much stronger than his former police training. Val Kilmer stars as the creepy maintenance man.
