LIGHTS, camera, no action!
South Africa’s film and television industry is on pause, with creatives out of pocket as they wait to hear what Canal Plus intends after acquiring MultiChoice last year.
With microphones off and scripts silent, insiders warn that without a clear signal from the broadcaster, combined with ongoing Film Incentive delays, the local industry could tank, with the future of local languages, content and talent at risk.
Jade Gezane, General Secretary of the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO), says prolonged uncertainty is eroding investor confidence and diminishing South Africa’s competitiveness as a production destination of choice.
“Without confirmed approval, producers cannot close financing, access bank funding, or move projects into production, even if broadcaster contracts are in place. This leads to postponements, cancellations, and serious cash-flow strain,…