A Mitchells Plain film-maker is smiling all the way to the big screen after news that his action-packed local movie about life on the Cape Flats will be showing at GrandWest Casino.
“Bloed Betaal 2”, a sequel to the 2020 film of the same name, tells the story of a father’s quest for justice after his innocent child is shot in a drug turf war. The film is expected to hit GrandWest’s Cinecentre’s cinema on November 4.
Film-maker Mark Matroos, who started out with a broken camera and a floodlight, said his goal was to tell Cape Flats stories with people who experienced the reality of life in crime- and poverty-stricken communities.
The 37-year-old planned to screen these movies at local community centres, but now his dream has grown even larger.
Matroos said he was overjoyed to hear that his movie would premiere at the GrandWest Casino, having worked on it during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I can’t explain how excited I am. All through Covid-19 we waited and hoped that we could release it. I know people have been waiting very long, those who were involved in the production, and those who know our work.
“So now that we got the news and as an added bonus heard that it will be premiered at GrandWest, I am stoked!”
Matroos thanked everyone who helped him achieve his dream.
Local comedian and actress Arlene Petersen, who stars in the movie, said she was happy that their hard work would be recognised.
“To think, three years ago I was ready to throw in the towel when I was faced with some hardships in my career.
“I regrouped (and) healed, and I want to take this opportunity to thank Mark Matroos for taking a big gamble on me, I don't take this lightly,” said Petersen.