A new breed of South African film has just
been released onto hit local screens. Thando Thabethe and Lungile Radu team up
in Love Lives Here, a movie about
love, loyalty, friendship and family. The star-studded cast also includes Zola
Nombona, Andile Gumbi, Motlatsi Mafatshe, Nomalanga Shozi and Nkanyiso Bhengu.
Filmed in KwaZulu-Natal and directed by
Norman Maake (Soldiers of the Rock,
2003; Homecoming 2005; and Skeem Saam 2011), it tells the story of
Zinhle Malinga (Thabethe), a hard-working modern woman with strong traditional
values who has been burnt by love. Luckily, she has her two best girlfriends,
Baphindile (Shozi) and Afiya (Nyokabi Angela Gethaiga) to cheer her up.
Zinhle is not willing to play games and
waste time. She is ready to take the next step in her life and get married. The
story starts and she meets Nkosinathi Shange (Radu), a true blue player, who
has been burned in love. The chemistry they feel for each other is too hard to
ignore. They decide to give their relationship a chance, but they ae both a
little wary and hesitant to truly commit, or be too open about who they are.
Zinhle is so real, and so unpretentious that Nathi decides to give her one last
test – he takes her to where he lives, his mother’s backroom.
“The film is a charming modern love story,
set in a contemporary South African city where, modern and traditional
lifestyles clash,” says director Maake. “It shows how young people, mindful of
their traditions, try to make sense of the great mystery of falling in love in
the context of modern society. Those who are cynical about love will be able to
enjoy the ride; it’s sexy, and packed with comedy, fun and over the top
characters. Ultimately, Love Lives Here
is a film that explores the lighter side of love, life and everything in
between.”
The glamorous Thando Thabethe, a radio and
TV presenter, actress, club DJ, MC and the first African brand ambassador for
Nivea, has established herself a force in the entertainment industry, having
hosted some of the biggest awards ceremonies in the country such as the South
African Music Awards and the South African Film and TV awards. She also bagged
the title of first female to host a drive time show on 5FM. On television, she
can be seen in the biggest soapie in South Africa, Generations – The Legacy,
boasting more than 9 million viewers. She’s starred in Mrs Right Guy, Intersexions, My Perfect Family (season1, 2 and 3), Kowethu, 1s and 2s, Club 808, Single Guys
and many more.
“In casting the film, I was blown away by
the depth of talent in South Africa,” says Maake. “With Thando, Nomalanga, and Nyokabi, who is
from Kenya, the film stars an eclectic mix of singles who are not only
beautiful, but are also great performers who light up the screen.”
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