A Bold South African Sci-Fi Story
Set in a dystopian Cape Town ravaged by climate disaster, Spelonk follows Dante, a former military commander-turned-bounty hunter, who is tasked with hunting rebels fighting for dwindling water supplies. Along the way, he meets Ophelia, a rebel leader whose secrets hold the power to challenge the system and spark a revolution.
Through its gripping narrative, the film examines themes of survival, power, and human resilience—all set against a stunning steampunk-inspired world brought to life with handcrafted costumes, custom-designed weaponry, and high-intensity action sequences. Featuring an acclaimed South African cast, including Greg Kriek, Abduragman Adams, Scot Cooper, Bernadette Beyers and many more
Why This Screening Matters
As global conversations around climate change, resource scarcity, and migration intensify, Spelonk offers a timely and thought-provoking exploration of what happens when greed and neglect push societies to the brink. The film’s inclusion in the Russian Film Festival marks an exciting cultural exchange between South Africa and Russia, demonstrating the power of film to bridge borders and spark meaningful discussions.
A Landmark for South African Filmmaking
Director Desmond Denton, known for his internationally acclaimed films Between Ashes and Hope and The Journey Home, describes this screening as a proud moment for South African storytelling:
“South Africa has a rich tradition of powerful storytelling, and with Spelonk, we are taking our stories to a global stage. This film is a love letter to our culture, our struggles, and our resilience. Seeing it screened as part of an international festival is a testament to the strength of African cinema.”
Event Details
Date: March 9, 2025
Venue: Cine Centre, GrandWest Casino, Cape Town
Time: 6:00 PM
Spelonk boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring:
- Greg Kriek (Die Hart 2, The Serengeti Rules)
- Jenny Umbhau (Warrior, Raised by Wolves, Wednesday)
- Scot Cooper (Homeland, Maze Runner: The Death Cure)
- Abduragman Adams (Barakat, Noem My Skollie)
- Eric Uys (Black Sails, The Salvation)
About the Russian Film Festival
The Russian Film Festival in South Africa is an annual event celebrating cinematic storytelling across cultures, featuring critically acclaimed films from both Russia and the host country. This year’s lineup includes a dynamic mix of genres, emphasizing cross-cultural dialogue through film.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to witness South African sci-fi storytelling on an international stage!
