From producer The Griot comes a South African musical drama titled “She is King” which is described by the filmmakers as “a joyous celebration of Zulu culture in a glossy contemporary setting, showing off Joburg as the ‘Broadway of Africa’.”

The story: Khanyisile is a talented performer who wants to be a star. She travels from her home in Nongoma to audition for a new musical to be staged at the Joburg Theatre based on the life of Zulu Queen Mkabayi ka Jama. After a couple of detours, she lands a role in the chorus and catches the eye of the best looking dancer in the show, charming soap star Luyanda. Will she be able to keep up with her more seasoned fellow performers, avoid the jealous machinations of the aging leading lady and survive the punishing rehearsal schedule to make it to opening night and shine like the star she is?

Directed By Gersh Kgamedi, the film stars Gugu Zulu as Khanyisile. She is joined in front of the camera by Khabonina Qubeka, Aubrey Poo, Khanyi Mbau, Mbuso Kgarege, Mandisa Nduna, Sihle Mooi, Bongani Madondo, Zoe Mthiyane, Sophie Ndaba, and Mike Mvelase.

Kgamedi co-wrote the script with Nicola Rauch, who also produces alongside Mpho Ramathuthu and Kagisho Bapela.

Following its Cannes Film Market presentation last month, and currently in post-production, “She Is King” is set for release in South Africa on December 1, 2017 via Indigenous Film Distribution. For other territories, Flourishing Films has acquired worldwide rights outside of Africa (M-Net has Africa rights) for the movie. No other release dates are available at this time.

No trailer yet.

The Griot

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