The 2017 Berlin International Film Festival kicked off on Thursday, February 9, and will run through the 19th. Among the films selected to screen in its Panorama “In Focus: Reclaiming Black History” sidebar is the South African drama from director John Trengove, titled “The Wound.” Making its European premiere, the film chronicles the initiation rites of a South African tribe, as tradition and modernity collide when an urbanized businessman from Johannesburg resolves to expose his 17-year-old son to the circumcision ceremony of his old tribe.
“The Wound” was co-written by Trengove, Thando Mgqolozana and Malusi Bengu and produced by Urucu Media. It stars multi-talented musician and novelist, Nakhane Touré in his first ever film-role, alongside Bongile Mantsai and Niza Jay Ncoyini. It was shot entirely in South Africa with an all-male Xhosa cast.
“What a privilege to have worked with this fearless cast and insanely talented team of collaborators. I am so grateful for the many Xhosa men who contributed in big ways and small ways, and, miraculously, trusted me to make this film. Whatever comes next, we made ‘The Wound’ with our eyes and hearts wide open,” Trengove said in a previous statement.
Announced this weekend, Kino Lorber has acquired all North American rights from Pyramide International to “The Wound” and is eyeing a summer theatrical release in the USA (It will be released in South Africa in July 2017), after a few more marquee international film festival playdates. The theatrical will be followed by a VoD and home media distribution during the latter half of this year.
Developed with the assistance of The Hubert Bals Fund and ARTE International Prize, as well as the South African Department of Trade and Industry and The National Film and Video Foundation, the film made its world premiere at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival last month.
This is John Trengove’s debut feature film.
ScreenDaily was first to report the acquisition by Kino Lorber.
Producer Elias Ribeiro previously delighted festival audiences in Panorama 2015 with another South African drama titled “Necktie Youth.”
Watch a trailer for “The Wound” below:
