South African director Mandla Dube, renowned for his captivating action thriller ‘Silverton Siege’ and the gripping adaptation of Deon Meyer’s ‘Heart of the Hunter,’ has secured a significant investment from the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC) to produce a slate of six feature films through his production company, Pambili Media.
Dube’s previous works have left an indelible mark on the South African film landscape, including his powerful portrayal of the liberation struggle in ‘Kalushi’ and the vibrant street dance drama series ‘Jiva,’ both produced for Netflix. In 2022, he entered into a multi-title development deal with the streaming giant, demonstrating Netflix’s commitment to bolstering film production in South Africa.
Pambili Media, founded by Dube, a former music video producer and cinematographer, boasts a diverse slate of projects spanning genres such as science fiction, fantasy, period drama, and contemporary. The investment from IDC will empower Pambili Media to enhance the caliber of its productions, expand its reach into unexplored markets, and explore uncharted storytelling territories.
‘We are deeply appreciative of the support extended by the IDC,’ said Dube. ‘This investment marks a pivotal moment in the annals of South African cinema as we endeavor to elevate our creative vision on the global stage. It will significantly augment the quality of our productions, amplify our reach, and foster a profound cultural impact through our narratives.’
The IDC, aligned with its mission to foster balanced and sustainable economic growth, prioritizes investments in organizations and initiatives that empower the South African populace. South Africa remains a vibrant production hub within Africa, on par with Nigeria’s Nollywood, and offers a substantial rebate incentive for film production.
‘Our commitment extends beyond enabling South African filmmakers to create compelling content,’ stated Kagisho Bapela, TV and film sector lead for the IDC. ‘We are dedicated to showcasing their work to worldwide audiences, positioning South Africa as a premier filming destination.’
Dube and Pambili Media are represented by Alta Global Media, a testament to their dedication to reaching a global audience and sharing the richness of South African storytelling with the world.
