‘SARAFINA!’ TO PREMIERE IN IMAX

 

Sarafina! which was digitally remastered in a special partnership with IMAX, will be premiered in IMAX format in South Africa on August 8 and 10, 2023, followed by a full commercial release in 28 cinemas across the country on August 11. 

This is the first-ever South African film to be formatted in IMAX which is acknowledged as the ‘world’s most innovative movie-going experience’. 

Every element in an IMAX theatre is planned, designed and positioned with exacting standards to create the most intense experience, ensuring movie magic when the lights go down in the cinema.

This release of Sarafina! which takes place during Women’s Month is a homage to the remarkable women who shaped the struggle for freedom in South Africa.  

It recognizes the powerful female characters in the film which include Sarafina’s mother, Angelina (the legendary Miriam Makeba); Mary Masembuko (Whoopi Goldberg) and Sarafina (Leleti Khumalo). These characters vividly portray the vital role women played as the backbone of the struggle. This timely release during Women’s Month, is a poignant tribute to the indomitable spirit of the brave women and an acknowledgement of their sacrifices in the quest for freedom.

(Right: Leleti Khumalo on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2023)

Producer, Anant Singh commented: “We are thrilled to be presenting Sarafina! in South Africa in the exceptional IMAX format which provides the ultimate motion picture experience.  With powerful portrayals by Leleti Khumalo, Whoopi Goldberg and Miriam Makeba, Sarafina! is a celebration of the lives of women and of hope.  We are delighted to be releasing this new version which includes new scenes, in celebration of women during Women’s Month.”

Sarafina! stars Leleti Khumalo; Academy Award® Winner, Whoopi Goldberg; Miriam Makeba; Mbongeni Ngema; John Kani and Somizi Mhlongo with the screenplay by Mbongeni Ngema and William Nicholson. The film is produced by Anant Singh and directed by Darrell James Roodt.

Sarafina! will be released in South Africa on August 11, 2023, by Videovision Entertainment through United International Pictures South Africa. The stars of the film will be in attendance at the premieres on August 8 and 10, 2023.