
Johannesburg – The Ergo Company has announced that “Old Righteous Blues” is still in the running to be South Africa’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
The shortlisted films will be revealed by the Academy Awards jurors on December 17, paving the way for the next stage of the awards season.
“With South Africa preparing to host the G20 Summit in 2025, we are proud to have our film, ‘Old Righteous Blues,’ chosen to represent the country as the official entry in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Directed by Muneera Sallies, ‘Old Righteous Blues’ is a testament to the vibrant film industry flourishing in the nation, showcasing the potential to create world-class content that resonates with global audiences.
“As we get ready to welcome global leaders for the G20 Summit, we are excited to present our unique cultural heritage and artistic talents,” expressed Muneera Sallies, the film’s director.
“The success of this film is a reminder of the significant role cultural diplomacy plays in promoting social unity, economic progress, and international partnerships.
“We look forward to sharing ‘Old Righteous Blues’ with audiences worldwide while hosting international leaders in South Africa for the G20 Summit in 2025.”
‘Old Righteous Blues’ is a poignant drama that explores themes of identity, love, community, and redemption set in a small South African town.
The story unfolds against the backdrop of a century-old brass band tradition in the Robertson, Worcester district of the Western Cape.
This area is known for its beautiful fruit orchards and wine estates.
During the harvest season, bands with as many as one hundred members converge for practice and competition.
Although Christmas celebrations are central, competitions continue until February. Amid this lively working-class environment, a contemporary Romeo and Juliet narrative takes shape, depicting the secret love affair between members of rival bands.
Deep-rooted wounds from past betrayals threaten to unravel the fabric of the community.
The film features an impressive ensemble cast and highlights the rich cultural tapestry of the nation.
With a compelling script by acclaimed writer Carol Shore (Muvhango), ‘Old Righteous Blues’ has captivated audiences since its debut at the Silwerskerm Fees. The team behind the film has successfully translated the narrative into a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
Carol has partnered with talented producers Cati Weinek (The Fragile King, The Letter Reader) and Dumi Gumbi (Headspace, Mrs Right Guy).
With notable successes such as Mrs Right Guy, the SAFTAs award-winner for Best Screenwriting and Best Actor – Freedom (script by Jafta Mamabolo); The Tokoloshe (Jerome Pikwane); Headspace – the highest-grossing film in South Africa in 2023 (directed by Gerhard Painter and Paul Meyer); and the recent five-time SAFTA winner The Fragile King (directed and written by Tristan Holmes), The Ergo Company was ideally positioned to bring this powerful script to fruition.
Featuring performances from Aydan Croy (Suidooster, Arendsvlei), Joshwin Dyson (Arendsvlei), Simon Bruinders (7de Laan, Getroud Met Rugby), Meg Saayman (Arendsvlei), and Kevin Smith (Backstage, Isidingo), the film showcases a crew that had previously not had the opportunity to lead their departments on international productions.
The committed crew dedicated six weeks in the rural Robertson Bo-dorp, resulting in a richly textured and authentically crafted film that moved audiences to tears at its launch during the Silwerskerm Fees in 2023.
The nominees for the Best International Feature Film category will be announced on January 17, 2025, with the 97th Academy Awards set to take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
‘Old Righteous Blues’ was made possible through support from the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), KykNet Films, Indigenous Film Distribution, and distribution assistance from The Ergo Company’s subsidiary – Ergo Distro International.
The National Film and Video Foundation is essential to the development of the local film industry, ensuring South Africa’s representation at the Oscars.
‘Old Righteous Blues’ is currently available for streaming on DSTV Box Office.