press kit - Wonderphil Productions

is holding a conference. Sophie is very arty and a littleeccentric. She is good at her work and guests are crazy abouther especially when she, together with her partner in crimeHermientjie, organises themed dinners and entertainment forthem. Sophie cannot stand Meyer and cannot understandwhat Cybil sees in him. Not only does Sophie run the lodge,she also has to keep Karel, the strange, germ-obsessed ownerof the lodge happy. He is a constant source of frustration forher, but could there be something else lurking behind thatfrustration?Pierre Breytenbach is Karel “Kiempie” de Villiers:Karek is the owner of Swartberg Country Manor. He boughtthe lodge because he wanted to escape the germ-infestedcity. His phobia makes it impossible for him to have contactwith strangers and, therefore, Sophie is the face of the lodge.Karel’s lack of social skills and absolute fear of germs makesit difficult for him to say what he means. For this reasonhe avoids intimate relationships. But since love is blind andnot particularly scared of the odd germ, Karel’s life couldsuddenly change dramatically.Sisanda Henna is Bongi Mazibuko:Bongi is Frans’ best friend and business partner. He foundedthe business and is the one who handles clients and pitchesfor new projects. Bongi is a real city slicker, full of confidenceand has a good self-esteem. However, he has absolutely nocontrol over the rest of the film crew (Jackie and Brian) andgenerally leaves it to Frans to keep them in line. He worriesabout Frans, especially after Sanet dumped him and it is hismission to find a new girlfriend for Frans. Frans has littletime for Bongi’s little schemes.Bouwer Bosch is Brian and Liandie du Randt isJackie:Jackie is Bongi’s assistant, but nobody is quite certain whatshe is supposed to do – other than work on everyone’snerves. She does not like kids or small country towns, sobeing stranded in the Little Karoo amongst the children ofKalfieskraal is nothing short of hell for her.Brian is an outstanding cameraman, the only reason theothers tolerate him. He specialises in films about war andconflict. Unfortunately, he has spent way too much time inconflict zones, with bombs exploding all around him. In short,he is a little ‘damaged’.Helene Truter is Hermientjie:Hermientjie is a chef at the Swartberg Country Manor andSophie’s partner in crime.Amalia Uys is Margriet:Margriet and Cybil teach at the same school. They are notparticularly fond of one another, but Margriet is crazy aboutMeyer…

DONNALEE ROBERTSSouth African actress andmodel Donnalee Robertsgraduated with a BADrama from PretoriaUniversity in 2006. Shethen completed a furthertwo years of training at thePerforming Arts andLifestyle Institution (PALI)film school in Pretoriawhere she played the leadrole in a number of student films.Donnalee can currently be seen as the feisty Annelie in thepopular SABC soap 7de Laan. She has appeared in a numberof advertising campaigns and is also the ambassador ofcertain charities.Klein Karoo marks Donnalee’s feature film debut.What attracted you to this story?The story is such an inspiration with lots of heart and soul.It shows us that any dream can come true and that true lovestill exists.Describe working in the Little Karoo and specifically inthe Swartberg MountainsI have always been attracted to the Little Karoo. There issomething in the air in those parts that appeals to the soul.The Swartberg Mountains are truly breathtaking and filled mewith wonder. It was a great privilege to shoot there.What was your favourite scene and what made itspecial?It is impossible for me to single out a specific scene, thewhole of Cybil’s story, each moment and every scene wasmeaningful to me.What were the most challenging aspects of the role?To a large extent I was able to relate to Cybil because weshare a dream and common passion for the community, butthis was my first feature film and I tried to tell Cybil’s storywith as much sensitivity as I could. Hopefully that is whataudiences will see.Describe working with Regardt van den Bergh.It was a great priviege. It has always been a dream of mineto work with Regardt and just as dreams come true in KleinKaroo, so too did my dream come true. He has a wonderfulway of working with people and I really appreciated how hetook time to greet each one of us every morning and thenthank each of us for our hard work at the end of the day. Thisreally helped to motivate all of us. He is very much a people’sperson, always patient and willing to give advice. He has agreat understanding of film which he shares with everyone.Tell us about Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity and your feelings about Kaapland Films’desire to make a lasting and uplifting impact on thecommunity where Klein Karoo was shotCybil’s story lies very near to my heart, it is wonderful toplay a character who wants to make a difference and actuallydoes. It does not end there because in reality KaaplandFilms are making a real difference and I hope with all myheart that this will inspire those who see the film to becomeinvolved in this project and to make a difference. I take myhat off to Kaapland Films for not only creating something soindescribably beautiful, but also something that will continueto inspire.What will remain with you from this experience? Anyinteresting anecdotes?How wonderful the energy surrounding the project was andthe fantastic way in which everyone worked together tomake such a beautiful film in such a short space of time. Thelaughter and time shared around the very long dinner table

at night after the day’s shoot and the indescribably beautifulview over the Swartberg Mountains from my doorway at theSwartberg Manor.Describe playing opposite Tim and HykieBoth Tim and Hykie are incredibly talented and every momentwas an utter pleasure. Not only is Tim very funny and gaveme many belly laughs, his raw talent is astounding andas an actor he is very giving. It was great acting oppositehim, especially since our characters’ storyline developed allthe way to the end. Hykie’s acting and talent goes withoutsaying, our characters’ storyline was very intense and I hada few very emotional scenes where I depended on him forthe emotion and he gave me that which makes those scenesvery intense.TIM THERONTim Theron has always, inone way or another, beeninvolved with entertainingpeople, be it friends andfamily, on stage, or in frontof the cameras. He completedhis studies at thePUK, where he immersedhimself in the universitiy’sperforming arts culture.He was involved in manystudent stage productions, where he honed his techniqueand talent.After graduating he entered the corporate media world, butafter becoming involved with the Lagnes comedy group, hemade the leap and to full time acting. Lagnes went fromstrength to strength, with performances at arts festivals suchas Aardklop, the KKNK, Jakaranda Nasionale Kunstefees,Citrus Fees, Woordpoort Fees, Die Mol Fees and many others.Thanks to a long-term ATKV sponsorship, Lagnes were ableto make their first series for KykNet in 2011In 2011 Tim began to focus on his solo career and was luckyenough to land roles in the romantic comedy box office hitSemi-Soet as well as the Afrikaans drama series Vloeksteen.In 2011 Tim, Cobus van den Berg and Jorrie van der Waltformed the production company Kaapland Films. Incollaboration with the talented scriptwriter Etienne Fourie,Tim wrote the story of Klein Karoo while Etienne wrote thescript. The film was produced by Kaapland Films and Timplays one of the leads.What was the inspiration for Klein Karoo?Klein Karoo is the distillation of so many different ideasthat I and the rest of the team came up with and Etiennedeveloped. Our aim was to come up with a funny, romanticstory that also had a bigger message. Something that wouldmake people proud to be South African and Afrikaans, whilereminding them that they need to be the change that theywant to see.Describe working in the Little Karoo and specifically theSwartberg MountansOriginally we wanted to shoot the film in Stellenbosch, butafter spending a weekend in the Swartberg Mountains, we allfell in love with the place and the people and knew we had toshoot there. The reason is plain to see on screen.What was your favourite scene and why?That is difficult to say. I know each character in the storyas though they were family and the story is so close to myheart, that it’s almost impossible to single out any one. I thinkthat the very first meeting between Frans and Cybil at the oldfilling station and also Brian walking into the swimming poolare definite favourites.

What was the biggest challenge for you?Trusting Regardt when he said that a scene was good andthat I did well. I am still really inexperienced and a bit ofa confidence player, so I needed constant reassurance thatmy idea and portrayal was spot on. Frans and I have manysimilarities, so I was able to colour the character’s throughtsand actions from my own experience.Describe working with Regardt van den BergThis was not just my first leading role in a feature film, butalso the first film that I helped to write and produce withCobus and Jorrie. A host of firsts. Therefore it was vital thatwe had an experienced person at the helm, someone I couldtrust with the story. It was a privilege to work with such alegend and something that made the experience of makingKlein Karoo so much more special.Tell us a bit about Cybil’s drive to make a difference inher community and also Kaapland Films’ effort to makea lasting difference in the community where the filmwas shot.This was one of our non-negotiables from the outset. Wedidn’t want to simply make another film, with pretty peopleand a nice story. Even though it is a fully commercial film,we wanted to give the film a conscience. We all believe thatstories, even simple ones like this, can inspire people to bemore, to better themselves, to live lives with meaning.What is the most lasting experience of shooting KleinKaroo? Any anecdotes?The look on Jaco Smit, our ADs face every time Donnaleehad to race towards me with her car and we kept askinghim if she could not come a little closer before swerving out.Donnalee’s driving skills were something to behold...Describe working opposite DonnaleeI could not have asked for a better leading lady. Apart frombecoming good friends, her passion, drive to perform betterin each scene and the depth of her performance, were aconstant inspiration to me.What was the highlight of shooting Klein Karoo?The cooperation of people in the film industry is fantastic towitness. Every film that is made at this stage is something ofa miracle and it is as though everyone realises this and worksextra hard to make the project a success. The creativity of thetechnical team in particular, who have to produce a qualityfilm on small budget with a small team and basic equipment,was proof that our crews are world class.What were the biggest challenges in producing KleinKaroo?Definitely the time on set. I always believed that we wouldget all the money we needed and the right crew. My stressstarted on set when I had to juggle the different roles. It wasdifficult to switch off and just focus on my acting while as aproducer I knew there were other problems that needed to besolved. I had to trust Cobus and Jorrie.What were the challenges as a producer?Because this was our first feature, the challenge was toconstantly be prepared to learn. We called on friends andacquaintances all the time for advice or ideas and none of uswere ever too proud to say “we don’t know”.Why do you think that audiences will enjoy Klein Karoo?Thanks to the simple nature of the story, everyone will beable to relate. The characters are real, people you know orknow of. But the characters are not the pathetic, retarded,unsophisticated Afrikaaners that we so often see portrayed.They are proud, modern and can hold their own. We also havesome of the funniest, most interesting characters yet seen onthe big screen. The film will also inspire you to follow yourown dreams and realise that you can make a difference.

HYKIE BERGMaldives which he won.Hykie Berg first capturedthe public imagination asthe controversial Darius duBuisson in the hit soapEgoli: Plek van Goud.Although he has portrayeda wide range of characters,in 2011 audiences got tosee a glimpse of the realcharacter when he tookpart in Survivor SA:Hykie has worked on various theatre, film and televisionproductions including drama series The Res and Plek vandie Vleisvreters, Egoli, Binneland, the award winning featureOuma se Slim Kind and Pretville.He is the managing director of Attooh True Wealth Academy, abrand ambassador for Honda South Africa and People Searchand Rescue Unit (PSARU).What attracted you to this project?The story says a lot about the conflict between complexmaterialism and the simplicity of love. And as we know, lovewill always triumph. I think many people lose direction in theirsearch for riches which are so transient. Cybil, for examplefinds her solace in her desire to love unselfishly as witnessedin her love of the children. It is the childrens’ struggle thatis at the heart of the film, and the understanding of theirproblems that will inspire people to become more involvedin the community. Love, happiness, despair and moments ofhappiness are the things that resonated with me in the script.And the fact that, once again, I was able to play an interestingcharacter.Describe working in the Little Karoo, specially theSwartberg MountainsThere is no other place in the world where heaven and earthmeet in such a beautiful fashion. It is one of the most blissfuland peaceful places on earth. I think I was more interestedin looking for a farm for my retirement than I was with thepeople. The beauty of the Swartberg leaves one speechless.I have never shot a film in a more beautiful place than theSwartberg.Which was your favourite scene and why?The scene where Cybil and I are seated at the table eatingdinner. I think this stands out for me because in this sceneyou can clearly see his obsession with material things. It wasan opportunity to carefully plan when to show the character’sconceitedness and then conceal it behind false humility.What was your biggest challenge in playing thischaracter?Every role comes with its own unique challenges. It is alwaysa scary experience for me to just allow the moment to leadyou. The challenge then is to make the right choices at theright time. Sometimes I have no idea what is going to hapenduring a scene and I tend to improvise a lot. It’s about takingthat leap of faith, and just doing it! You have to trust yourselfin the role, any uncertainty is confusing to the audience.Describe working with the accomplished Regardt vanden BerghWhat a machine! It is lovely to see how he handles eachperson on set in singular way. The respect that he has foreveryone on set, incuding the man on the ground is trulyremarkable to see. He is joyful, exciting and just full of love.He carries the team every moment of the day and by sunsetthe results speak for themselves.It is the human relations that lead to the success of a projectof this scale. Regardt is a true leader and that makes amassive difference. One feels part of a team and he always

has your best interests at heart. Directors, anyone really, whothinks that he is above the rest soon discovers that there islittle place for autocratic, vain dictators. It is an absolutehonour to work with him. I salute you Regardt, and at the endof the day, it’s our faith in our Father that will exalt us abovethe rest!What is at the heart of this story?Have we not been created to serve others? Is this not how weserve God? Few people are willing to dirty their hands helpingothers or show love to those around them. Christian love issacrificial love. Cybil turned her back on the materialisticworld in order to fulfil her spiritual calling. At the heart ofKlein Karoo is the notion that Christian love is sacrificial loveand I think that is exactly what Cybil did. She gave up thematerial world to fulfil her spiritual duty. The essence of KlenKaroo is that we should consider the needs of others aboveour own. To give up what we think is important to insead dowhat God wants us to do. By doing this we receive all thatour hearts desire anyway.What were the most memorable aspects of your time onthe set of Klein KarooGiving a relativey good friend of mine my copy of RickWarren’s “The Purpose Driven Life” and seeing, for a briefmoment, her realization that God is the only celebrity. Therest of us are just glorified janitors.Describe working with Donnalee?It was really enjoyable. I have great respect for her because Idon’t think I am one of the easiest people to work with since Ioften stray from the script. Even I don’t know where I get thedialogue from. She is beautiful, vibrant and has everythingit takes to be and become what she was called for to do inthis life.ANEL ALEXANDERAnel is best known for herroles in two of SouthAfrica’s most popular, localdaily soap operas. In 7deLaan, she won the nation’sheart as the shy Liesl andthen went on to show herversatility by playing thedrug troubled Nina inMNet’s Binnelanders.Believing that one must never underestimate the power ofhard work, Anel started her professional career while stillstudying drama at the University of Pretoria. She appearedat the State Theatre in the musicals The Witness and Jesu- An African Portrait and also joined theatre legend NicholasEllenbogen on stage at the KKNK in the play The CalitzdorpPassion. She graduated Cum Laude in 2002 and stepped outof varsity into the books of one of the top agents in SA’sshowbiz industry.Soon she was seen showing off her musical and dancingabilities in the cabaret Blondes but it wasn’t long before shefound herself snatched up by 7de Laan to play their ‘uglyduckling turned swan’, Liesl. Since then, she’s been in frontof the camera involved in well known TV shows like, ZeroTolerance 3, Amalia 2, City Ses’la, Hillside and Rhythm City.Most recently she starred in the first and second season ofthe hugely popular and edgy Kyknet drama series Getroudmet Rugby and was seen on the sexy new SABC 3 drama TheMating Game.In between her TV work Anel’s love for the theatre has kepther involved in many arts festival productions, of which ahighlight was Bosryk where she shared the stage withAfrikaans theatre icon, Gys de Villiers. She also co-produced

and performed in the popular Discreet, Upmarket, 24/7 atthe Grahamstown National Arts Festival (2005 & 2006) andKKNK (2006). At the end of 2007 Anel starred opposite SteveHofmeyr as his wife in the Afrikaans musical Dis hoe dit was– Die Steve Hofmeyr Storie in the State Theatre.Recently, Anel decided to try her hand at presenting and wasseen as the female anchor for SABC 2’s magazine show,3:16. She also presented the spicy arts and entertainmentprogram, Artcha, and has appeared as a guest presenter forPasella, on SABC 2.Anel’s primary passion though is film, and together with herhusband, James Alexander, and their company, ScrambleProductions, she produced the local independent filmDiscreet. Not only did she help secure the funding, produceand promote the film, but she also played the leading lady.Discreet released in November of 2008 locally and washailed by critics as a triumph for SA indie cinema. The filmwent on to secure an international release in 2011 throughGreen Apple Entertainment. Scramble Productions completedand released its second feature film, an Afrikaans RomanticComedy titled Semi-Soet in February 2012. The film iscurrently one of the most successful Afrikaans films ever.What attracted you to this project?The fact that Kaapland Films paid me! I am also a filmmakerand it is wonderful to be part of the growing local film industry.Klein Karoo is another genre on the local film landscape.Describe working in the Little Karoo and specifically theSwartberg MountainsI am totally in love with the Swartberg Mountains. If I could Iwould move there tomorrow. It is a very special and diverseplace.What were the biggest challenges in terms of your role?The biggest challenge on South African productions isthat there is so little time which means that you only getone or two takes per scene. This makes it very difficult toexperiment with a character or take risks because there justisn’t time for that.Describe working with Regardt van den Bergh?Regardt is a lovely energy on set. He is really a kind andgentle person.Tell us about Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity and the fact that Kaapland Films is makinga lasting, uplifiting impact on the area where the filmwas shot?I have always believed in the power of media, be it films,TV, theatre, radio or whatever. Media is such a powerful toolto reach the world and to make a difference, therefore, it isgreat to be a part of a project that is doing precisely that.What were the most memorable aspects of you time onset? Any anecdotes?This was such a great group of people and the fact that weshot and stayed on location always makes for a wonderfulteam spirit.Describe working with PierrePierre joined the Klein Karoo team in a very dramatic manner.He heard in the space of a day that he had the role, flew tothe Swartberg Mountains and a few hours later stepped ontoset as Karel Kiempie.I cannot think of a better actor for the role. He is an utstandingactor and it is always a pleasure to work with professionals.Which was your favourite scene and why?We had loads of fun while we were shooting the car sequence.There was this massive old car (Chrysler?) on set and at onestage almost the entire cast were bundled into it.

PIERRE BREYTENBACHPierre completed his BADrama degree in 1998 atTukkies. He immediatelystarted working on stagein musicals and comedies.Since then he hasperformed with leadingactors including FrankOpperman, Gys de Villiers,PG du Plessis, DeonOpperman, SandraPrinsloo, Tobie Cronje and Harry Kalmer. On televison heappeared in Die Casper Rasper Show, Spekskieters, andevery imaginable soapie in the country.Most recently he was seen in KykNet’s improv comedyProesstraat. However, Pierre is not only a comedian, he hasalso turned in a number of serious performances on televisionand film and over the past four years he has served as a50/50 field presenter – when his wife and three kids are notworking him hard at home.What attracted you to this project?It was a last minute business, but definitely a blessing.What was it like working in the Little Karoo, specificallythe Swartberg Mountains?It is possibly one of the most beautiful parts of our country.Someone asked me the other day why it is that everyonegoes on about the Little Karoo. I told them to spend a fewdays at the foot of the Swartberg and find the answer foryourself. The silence, beauty, colours and people are allunique and incomparable.What was your favourite scene and why?Driving the Chrysler New Yorker. I am still a child at heart andthat moustercar really set my heart racing.What were the challenges of you role?On one level it was a massive challenge to play the comedyrelief character without making him a charicature. On anotherlevel it was difficult to arrive on set knowing that everyonewas expecting someone else. Trying to fill those shoes andto honour the expectation and at the same time give full flightto your own creativity was a unique challenge.Describe working with the accomplished Regardt vanden BerghI had never met Regardt so I had no idea what to expect.Naturally I was a little nevrous. Add to that the fact that 15minutes after meeting him, I had to be in front of the camerasand crew – and all of this in front of one of the great namesof the local film industry. What a pleasure! It is seldom thatyou meet such a giant of a director who has such warmth,humanity and sincerity. And what a pleasure to work underhis guidance. Words cannot express my respect.Tell us about Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity and the fact that Kaapland Films is makinga lasting, uplifiting impact on the area where the filmwas shot?During the filming we spent a lot of time discussing preciselythat. Sometimes it led to heated debates, but we were agreedthat nobody can or should shy away from this responsibility.As with many other places in our country, it is critical thateach person makes a difference, leaves things better for thenext generation and make sacrifices for others. What betterplace to do this than the Little Karoo that had received us sowarmly.What were the most memorable aspects of your time onset? Any anecdotes?The great team work. That everyone, despite personaldifferences, worked so hard together, socialised together andwere grateful for every little blessing on the production.

I was surounded by green pastures, mountains and sheep.Postcard stuff!What was your favourite scene and why?I think the scenes in the car as those were lots of fun.What was your greatest challenge in terms of yourportrayal?The scene where Hermientjie laughs hysterically at Pierre’scharacter. After ten takes my stomach ached.Describe working with the legendary Regardt van denBerghRegardt was a joy to work with. He respects actors and he isvery relaxed on set. You feel very safe in his handsWhat are the most memorable aspects of thisproduction? Any anecdotes?It was one of the most beautiful settings I have ever workedin. One of the crew members accidently ran over a sheepand the sheep was quickly slaughtered and sold to cover thefarmer’s costs. I wonder what happens if you hit a taxi?Describe working with Pierre and AnelAnel is an absolute pro, a fabulous actress and lovely person.Pierre is a maverick, but despite his wackyness (that I love),he has a lovely and sincere nature. He is very funny though.LEANDIE DU RANDTLeandie du Randtgraduated cum laude witha B.Com IndustrialPsychology in 2009. In2010 she completed herhonours degree inIndustrial Psychology.Shortly thereafter she wasbitten by the acting bug.In her first year she wascrowned Miss Personalityin a beauty competition and won an acting course withBrumilda van Rensburg.She took part in numerous fashion shows with well knownmodels such as Christina Storm as well as music videos forartists Nicholis Louw, Snotkop and Albert de Wet. Later shewas cast as Mieke in the kykNET series Getroud met Rugby.She made her feature film debut as Peggy in Franz Marx’sEgoli – Die Movie and went on to play Melanie in Susannavan Biljon.Leandie has also appeared in the soapies Egol, Isidingo andthe student film Henley on KlipWhat attracted you to this project?Klein Karoo is a funny, loving film and I was able to relate tothe story. Not many romantic comedies have been made inSouth Africa and I wanted to be part of one of the best.Describe working in the Little Karoo and secifically theSwartberg MountainsIt was really nice to shoot in the Swartberg Mountains. Ithelped on to get into the vibe of the story, away from themadness of the city. It certainly grounds you and helps youget in touch with your inner world and realise what is reallyimportant in life.

Which was your favourite scene and why?The last scene of the film in which Bouwer does his bestacting. He was hysterically funny and I think that everyoneinvolved in that scene was able to give full vent to theircharacter. Another favourite was my pool sequence because Idiscovered that I would love to do an action comedy or stuntfim.What was the biggest challenge in terms of yourportrayal?Jackie, the character I play doesn’t say much. It was achallenge to be upa nd about in my scenes without being ableto speak. You still have to give life to the character withoutspeaking and that was a nice challenge.Describe working with the legendary Regardt van denBerghRegardt is fantastic. He allows you the freedom to exploreyour character and to bring your own ideas to the film.He sees you as an individual and heps you to mould yourcharacter accordingly.What are your thoughts about the hart of the KleinKaroo Story, Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity, and the fact that Kaapland Films want tomake a lasting and uplifting impact on the locationwhere the movie was shot?I think that acting is about inspiring others and not just makingbubble gum scripts and storylines. If someone watching thisfilm is able to identify with a character or gains insight intohow to handle a situation in their own life or is inspired tohelp others, then you are making a difference in the lives ofothers through the work you do.What were the most memorable aspects of thisproduction? Any anecdotes?I will never forget the good news I received while working inthe Swartberg or the fun I had with other cast members everynight – the wine and laughter. I made friends for life andlearned so much from everyone involved. The best momentby far was when Bouwer ran into the pool. Brilliant!Describe working with BouwerI formed such a strong bond with Bouwer and we are stillclose friends, so thanks to everyone for introducing us.Bouwer is a fantastic energy and his comedy is infectious.He drives you to better yourself and to be unselfish. He hastaught me to to appreciate music and love the life and havecompassion for others. He has taught me what it is to betruly unique, how to laugh, believe me, he had me rolling onthe floor with laughter. I love you baby Bouw. Thanks for theamazing scenes together and inspiring me to be a funny andtruthful actress.BOUWER BOSCHBouwer Bosch is wellknown face in theentertainment industry,most natably as the leadsinger of the SAMAnominatedband Straatligkinders,and the duoDans Dans Lisa. Bouwerdescribes himself as acyber fundi, entrepreneur,battling actor andinnovator. Bouwer’s Youtube channel is one of the 100 mostsearched South African channels.Bouwer is also part of the production company AmateurFilms, that specialises in music videos and boasts a greatrecord in terms of airtime on MK and Jukebox on kykNET.Bouwer recently released his first solo album titled AlmalMaak Foute, the title cut Vertel My made it onto the MK TopTen within days with over 10 000 hits on Youtube.

had a moment of panic and naturally over acted even more.But Regardt is such an amazing director that I put myself inhis hands and allowed him to guide me. Then somethinghappened that I have never experenced before, my narcissismreceded and I totally slipped into the world of my characterand the story. It was an amazing feeling.What was the biggest challenge for you in portrayingthis character?She is a small character and, though indispensible, there wasnot much of an arc for the character or any meat with whichto work. There were also changes to the script that I had notseen beforehand so I was not able to prepare as thoroughlyas I usually would. I was a little scared that I would not beable to deliver what was expected of me, but in the end it allworked out.What worried me a lot more was the fact that according tothe schedule all my scenes were in the last three days ofthe shoot. This was the case on my previous film and it wasa nightmare. I know only too well how exhausted cast andcrew are in the last few days, but in this case I need not haveworried. It was a great experience.Describe working with the legendary Regardt van denBerghAn absolute honour and pleasure. He is the real deal. I hopeto work with him over and over again.What are your thoughts about the heart of the KleinKaroo Story, Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity, and the fact that Kaapland Films want tomake a lasting and uplifting impact on the locationwhere the movie was shot?I have always been of the opinion that there should becontinuity in terms of the various visions that make the finalproduct (movie/play/series) possible. Everyone from the leadcharacter to the office assistant needs to be on the samewavelength. This is the ideal, although we know that it isseldom the case in this fickle industryf Klein Karoo was reallyrefeshing because the production company in this case isdirectly involved in spreading the message of the movie andaccept responsibility for the impact thereof.What were the most memorable aspects of this project?Any anecdotes?The fact that I was treated with kindness and respect byeveryone throughout my time on set.The route from the Swartberg Manor to the farm school isa typical Karoo dirt road. I was driving along this road withRegardt, both of us looking at the landscape. All I couldsee was Karoo scrub (and being a child of the Kalahari,I pride myself on being more observant than my citycounterparts). Every couple of seconds Regardt pointed outa neutmuskaatklipspringer or a kruibosmuishond or group ofgiraffe. My point is that all I saw was scrub and the flatlanscape, but Regardt not only saw these things, but wasable to name them.AMALIA UYSAmalia Uys startedentertaining people from avery early age. During herschool years, she took partin the annual PretoriaEisteddfod and variousschool plays.By the time she matriculated,Amalia hadcompleted her Grade 8training with the Royal Academy of Dancing and her speechand drama training at the Speech and Drama Guild at seniorlevel 5. She achieved both of these with distinction.In 2003 she started her B.Drama degree at the Universiteit ofStellenbosch. After appearing in many theatre productions,

Amalia landed the role of Sunshine in the SABC comedyseries Gabriel opposite Marcel van Heerden, Tobie Cronjeand Jo da Silva. Shortly after graduating, Amalia was castas Sanmari van Graan in the SABC 2 soapie 7de – a role shestill plays.Amalia hopes to be able to look back at her career one dayand know that she lived her passion fully and that she madethe most of every opportunity she was given.What attracted you to this project?To be honest, the opportunity to work on a new script, a newcharacter on a new set and with a whole lot of new people.I am at a pont in my career where I need fresh stimulation.Furthermore, I am a great fan of romanic comedy and alwayswanted to act in one. The fact that this project has heartand is working towards the upliftment of less priviledgedcommunities, is an added bonus. This places the entire KleinKaroo project in a league of its own.Describe working in the Little Karoo and specifically theSwartberg Mountains.Incredible. I doubt that I wil get to work on such a lovelylocation again any time soon. The Swartberg Manor wasglorious. We were looked aftr so well – everything from thelog fires, red wine and real plaaskos to the beautiful viewsand fresh air. The perfect place to recharge betwen scenes.Which was your favourite scene and why?The scene at the athletics track. Donnalee and I generallywork well together and I was mad about Magriet’s megaphone– it gave the scene the spark it needed.What was the greatest challenge for you in terms of youcharacter?Magriet and the character I play in 7de Laan are similarin certain ways – both can be bitchy, both are ambitiousand hate to lose. Both are comic characters without beingcharicatures. The biggest challenge was to bring somethingtotally fresh to the table without just disguising the Sanmaricharacter. Since Magriet is a bit more bitchy, that wassomething I could work with.Describe working with the legendary Regardt van denBerghRegardt is an incredible director. He is friendly, warm,approachable and easy to work with. He has a beautiful heartand I hope to work with him again.What are your thoughts about the heart of the KleinKaroo Story, Cybil’s drive to make a difference in hercommunity, and the fact that Kaapland Films want tomake a lasting and uplifting impact on the locationwhere the movie was shot?I hope that the film will motivate people to become involvedin the upliftment of communities on an ongoing basis. This isdefintely the way of the future. It is no cliche, every bit helpsand we all have a responsibility to those less fortunate. Timand Etienne have succeeded in creating a script and telling astory that entertains and informs at the same time.Which scene was most memorable and any anecdotes?I cannot single out any one thing because the entireexperience was a highlight for me. I wish I could have beenthere longer because it was one of the best weeks of my life.The experience gained and friends I made will be with mefor ever.ABOUT THE PRODUCTIONFinding the right location for your film, one that suits thescript and enriches the story is one of the biggest headachesfor a producer and one that can become a nightmare.In this sense we were fortunate from the start. The film wasoriginally titled Droomverlore and we would have been set inStellenbosch. But then we all fell in love with the Little Karooafter a weekend break at the Swartberg Country Manor.

Fortunately this was early in the process, before the scriptwas written and we only had the rough story.Thus the film became Klein Karoo and the Kango Valley at thefoot of the Swartberg Mountains our location. This was notonly the ideal location, but it also became something of anextra character in the story. In discussions with Regardt andalso with Etienne, we all agreed that the environment shouldplay a central role.The people in the area were always willing to help us, opentheir farms and houses to us to shoot.There were also a couple of lucky shots and miracles alongthe way. For example, on one of our first location recces wemissed a turn off and ended up on the wrong dirt road. Wearrived, quite by accident at a quaint little nursery schoolcalled Rin in Tin Skool. The school was really remote, but itfitted perfectly with our vision for Kalfieskraal. We may neverhave found the school and the film would have been poorerfor it.Another lucky break came when we wanted to shoot a picnicscene on top of the Swartberg Pass. The wind was howlingmaking it impossible to shoot so high on the mountan. Thegood folks from the Kango Caves came to our rescue and theentire scene was shot inside the caves. The first Afrikaansfilm to shoot in the caves. What an privilege.Klein Karoo afforded us the opportunity to showcase a partof South Africa’s beauty and the majesty of the SwartbergMountains and immediately puts the film on an internationallevel.ABOUT THE FILMMAKERSCOBUS VAN DEN BERG - ProducerCobus was born in the years of apartheid and is too young tobe a hippy and too old to be a computer whizz kid.At school he performed in every imaginable theatre piece, butwent on to study chartered accountancy because his fatherwould only pay for a degree that would guarante real work.Dreams of a career in film were just a fantasy.Having been a Receiver of Revenue, helped to list a companyon the JSE, opened a private auditing practice and then,together with a partner, being involved in the tourism andhospitality industry for the past ten years, Klein Karoo camealong and changed his fantasy into reality.Fortunately the years of fantasising, knowledge of theindustry (he has been documenting Afrikaans films sincehe was a kid), passion, natural inclination, as well as hishands-on experience running a theatre cafe at the hotel heand his partner manage in Cape Town, the transition to filmproducing was smooth. Over and above that, his businessacumen and marketing background help to make Klein Karooa successful business.How did you become involved with Kaapland FilmsI had a gun pressed to my head by one of my fellow producers.What did you enjoy most about producing Klein Karoo?The idea that we are creating something for future generationsand making a difference in the community where we shot thefilm. The great team spirit.What was the biggest challenge in bringing this storyto screen?The limited time we had to shoot the film and the fact that theweather didn’t always play along.What were your biggest challenges as a producer?The technical team was very small and at times I had tofollow my gut without having any experience – I used mypassion and common sense.What was the highlight of the shoot for you?The scene in the Kango Caves – a first for an Afrikaans film

Tell us about the funniest thing that you witnessed onsetIt had to be the art department creating packets of condomsbecause we could not get a sponsor. They even went online tosearch for an appropriate name – great, orgasmic creativity.Describe working with the legendary Regardt van denBerghA privilege. I was able to sit between Regardt and ourcontinuity person Liezl Spies throughout the shoot so Iwas able to be part of every decision and was able to askquestions and make suggestions.Describe working with Tim and JorrieThat is an unfair question. Naturally our outlook differsbecause we represent two different generations, but there ismutual respect and I think that our creativity forms a perfectbridge.What are the difficulties of making a film in SouthAfrica?The very small Afrikaans market in which we play and theperception that unless it comes out of Hollywood it cannot dowell. Also the very small budgets and the box office takes 60percent of the ticket price.ProducersTIM THERONSee under ActorsJORRIE VAN DER WALT - ProducerSee under CinematographerDirectorREGARDT Van den BerghThere are various reasons why I was attracted to Klein Karoo.Firstly, before I read the script, Cobus van den Bergh, TimTheron and Jorrie van der Walt came to see me to find outwhether or not I would be interested in a project of thisnature. They also asked me to see whether or not the projectwas viable. Their enthusiasm to make a film and the way inwhich they related the story, grabbed me from the start. Iknew then that these guys knew what they were doing.Apart form the fact that the story is fresh and told withhonesty, the location in which it was set excited me. I knewthat we could make a beautiful film in the Little Karoo. Youcannot go wrong shooting in that area. Nothing compareswith shooting a film in the platteland where you have theenthusiasm and support of the local community.Working with young filmmakers was also appealing to me. Itwas gratifying to see how the actors and technicians grew intotheir roles. Actors like Tim and Donnalee (I should mentionthe entire cast) arrived on set with so much expectationand having prepared so hard, that it was truly refreshing.I especally enjoyed mining Tim’s dry sense of humour andcreating a platform for him to give full vent to this talent.It is quite something take on your first big role and at thesame time have to lead everyone else through the process.Tim was great in this respect. I appreciated the dedicationwith which Donnalee approached her role and know thataudiences will see that she really “lived” this role. I could saythe same of everyone involved.Technically we witnessed a miracle. We had so little time toshoot and it was a challenge to tell this story skilfully withinthe budget and time constraints. I think that Jorrie who wastackling his first feature film has brought a level of camerawork to this film that we can all be proud of.

This is not my first experience working with young peoplein the industry and also not my first experience of first-timeproducers, but given the choice I would happily work withthis team again.Director ofPhotographyJORRIE VAN DER WALTWith a University degree in Visual Communication and topstudent I started my career in the industry. I worked forHomebrew Films for 3 years where I gained experience incamera work, steady cam, lighting and sound. I started myown production company called Empty Canvas Productionsand won numerous local and international awards from bestmusic video to best cinematography.My experience ranges from DOP on feature films, commercials,documentaries, short films, series, music video’s and TVproductions. Credits include Klein Karoo (Feature film), TheSouth African Story with Archbishop Desmond Tutu andcommercials for Johnson & Johnson and Samsung. ModernMigration and Endangered Wild Life documentaries forNational History Unit. As well as various local productions forMnet, Kyknet, Mzanzi, SABC and Super-Sport. I do my workwith excellence and aim to be the best in what I do. Creative,attention to detail, focused, hard working and a team playerare some of my best qualities.Describe working in the Little Karoo and specifically theSwartberg MountainsI will always remember my first experience of the location.We were en route to the first location recce in August 2011.Just after Calitzdorp we turned onto the dirt road leading tothe Swartberg Pass. This simple dirt road changed withinkilometres into the most beautiful landscape I have everseen. This was my first sighting of the Rooiberg and I thoughthow privileged we are to be able to tell our stories.Klein Karoo is set against the backdrop of one of SouthAfrica’s most beautiful landscapes and without doubt myfavourite landscape. It was such a wonderful experience towork in these surroundings. You can point your camera invirtually any direction and you have something impressivein your frame. I think the film showcases the various facetsof the surroundings and how diverse it is. Catching this oncamera was certainly not dificult.What were the most memorable aspects of working onKlein Karoo? Any anecdotes?The last scene of the film where we were chasing time. Wewere not chasing light, but our own schedule and had just 40minutes to shoot the scene before two of our actors had tobe at the airport in George. It was the wrong time of the daywith the harsh sun turning the road into a mirage. There wasa thin cloud in the sky and we figured that this would justprovide enough shadow for us to shoot the scene.The moment the sun disappeared behind the cloud westarted shooting and miraculously the cloud shielded the sunfor about 15 minutes, giving us time to shoot the scene. Idon’t know how we would have shot that scene if it were notfor that magic cloud.What camera did you use and what motivated yourchoice?We shot on the SONY F3 with a PiX 240 recorder. The F3 hasan easy work flow with the Pix 240 that allowed us to watchset rushes relatively easily. It is always useful to see how youcan cut things together. We also used a lot of dolly trackingwhich works well with Regardt’s style of directing.Describe working side by side with RegardtIt was a huge privilege to be working with a legend of theindustry. Regardt is one of the easiest people to work withand someone I look up to. He has so much experience and yethe is always willing to listen to suggestions.What were your greatest challenges?My biggest challenge was working within the time constrantsthat we had, but I suppose that time is always a challenge.

We always want that extra shot, or better framing. What wedid do correctly was allow ourselves enough time for lightingso that we could shoot the scenes quickly and in two takes.This made it harder for the actors, but ensured that we gotthe images.Script WriterETIENNE FOURIEEtienne published his first short story at the age of 16 for theATKV’s Nasionale Skryfskool Kompetisie under the guidanceof prof. Hans du Plessis (Die Griekwa Psalms) and his secondstory a year later. His short story collection Die Kloosterkoekewas adapted for stage and performed as part of Affies’ annualculture festival. Etienne was the first student playwright athis high school and wrote a number of plays over a threeyear period.In 2011 Etienne completed his honours year at AFDA, bywhich stage he had already made a variety of short filmsand music videos, for amongst others Wrestlerish andZondernaam, which was the winning video at the 2010 MKRockspaaider Competition. Etienne’s commercials includeSleeping Children Around the World (nominated for a 2011Loerie) for a Canadian charity organisation and an advert forSter-Kinekor’s Vision Mission inisiative (Loerie winner 2012).Etienne garnered awards for Best Director as well as BestScript at the 2011 AFDA Awards as well as a nomination forthe 2012 Student Oscars for Die Windpomp.What were the biggest challenges in writing this script?Despite the joy of writing Klein Karoo, there were manychallenges. As a writer who is always in charge of theconsruction of the world in which the story is set down tothe hairstyles of the characters, it was challenging to to builda story from an existing concept. My only other experienceof such a process was in 2010 when I wrote Die Bakker forRegardt. The challenge was knowing when to use my ownvoice and when to listen. It was important that the story Ipresented to Kaapland was recognisable as the one that itbegan with. There were times when I found it extremelyfrustrating not to be able to write instinctively and manipulatethe story into one that felt natural to me. It was more importantthat I understand the story from the start and to tackle thisnew world with my new character friends. Now I would notchange them for the world.Which of the characters are favourites, who did youenjoy writing most?All the characters that Tim originally created were interestingand colourful. It was fun to work with characters that I liked,characters with whom I would like to have coffee and achat. That helped the process immeasurably. Although I wasintroduced to most of these characters and they were not myown creation, it was important to me to put my own stamp onthem. The dialogue is the only tool a writer has to introducecharacters to an audience and make them likeable, hatedand so on. For this reason I love Karel, the uncomfortable soulwho only talks when it is absolutely necessary. The upshotof this is that everything that Karel gets up to, has a sortof weight to it. I saw many aspects of my own charater inKarel. I was also very fond of Hermientjie, who is the exactopposte and is never stuck for words. It was fun to give hera couple of mad things to say and do with the result that ourlead characters, in contrast, come across as cultured andacceptable, even when things start to unravel. I also tend tofall for the smaller characters and have to confess that myfavourite by far is Bongi’s wife with whom I would like to havea glass of wine rather than a cup of coffee because I think wewould have lots to discuss.How does it feel to have Regardt van den Bergh bringingyour story to screen?It is an honour to have someone of the caliber of Regardt vanden Bergh add his own magic to the words that you wrote inthe darkness of your flat. He is a legend. For this reason it

can put a lot of pressure on you as a writer not to disappoint.However, Regardt is such a nice guy that I was not stressed.I also did not think about that because whether the script isfor Regardt or someone else, the story is the most importantthing. A good story is a good story, no matter who tells it.That was and remains my first priority.Describe working with the team from Kaapland FilmsMy first impression of the Kaapland team was of a groupof friends who are passionate, who do cool things togetherand that is always nice to see, specially if you are forced tomatch that passion creatively. The fact that I am strange andsometimes socially-challenged soul, did not perturb them inthe least. They understand the process and gave me thespace to do what I had to do. I have to single out Cobusbecause he is an utter gentleman for whom I have enormousrespect for the manner and the amount of passion with whichhe tackled this project.END CREDITSFrans Coetzee ............................... TIM THERONCybil Ferreira ........................DONNALEE ROBERTSMeyer Labuschagne .......................... HYKIE BERGBongi ................................... SISANDA HENNASophie Ferreira ......................... ANEL ALEXANDERKarel Kiempie ..................... PIERRE BREYTENBACHHermientjie .............................. HELENE TRUTERBrian .................................... BOUWER BOSCHJackie ............................... LEANDIE DU RANDTMrs. Bruinders ............................... ILSE OPPELTMagriet ..................................... AMALIA UYSMr. Gilbert ......................... COBUS VAN DEN BERGSanet ........................... SUNELLE VAN DEN BERGSteve .......................... SCHALK VAN DER MERWELlewellyn ...................... LLEWELLYN VAN DEN BERGEstate Agent ....................REGARDT VAN DEN BERGHGirl in Co-op .............................. AMELIA BOSCHTaxi Driver ..................................DAMION STAZWaitress at Swartberg Country Manor .... SHANTELLE LOFFPetrol Attendants ....................... ANZER ERASMUSGARTH HURLINGMr. Burger at function ................... ANDRO GRIESSELMrs. Burger at function ................. HELENA GRIESSELExecutive Producers ............... COBUS VAN DEN BERGTIM THERONJORRIE VAN DER WALTRegisseur ......................REGARDT Van den BerghScreenplay ..............................ETIENNE FOURIEStory by ..................................... TIM THERONProduction Team ................... COBUS VAN DEN BERGTIM THERONMART-MARIE SCHOEMANSTEFAN ENSLINJACO VAN DEN BERGCinematographer ..................JORRIE VAN DER WALT

MUSICTim Theron and Die Vosperd BrigadeDans Dans LisaAnel AlexanderRiana NelKaren ZoidDewald WasserfallSPECIAL THANKSThe community of OudtshoornThe community of MatjiesrivierLearners and Personnel of Höerskool Outdshoorn (Struisies)Gerrit de Jager – Vintage CarKango CavesPieter JanekeFrikkie and Marietjie VermeulenAlma Swart – Dreams to RealityLouis de Wet – Klein Karoo ToyotaWillie Burger – Landmark OudtshoornJacques Conradie – Karusa WyneHennie en Karin BoschHein Steyn – Outeniqua MotorsEben en Theo BarnardFancy FunctionsAlta Scott – Deur die BlareVirgin ActiveThe Prop FatherMike Berg – ArtappelPam Golding OudtshoornPropeller PropsNico Ungerer – TrunnelsHelena BlokOwners and Personnel of Swartberg County ManorGraeme Blem – Sign BombSarie – Jou InspirasieSunelle van den Berg – Blank CanvasRodney Preslon and Nel Steenkamp – VolmoedGerius en Alma Steenkamp – WatervalThe squirrel that drowned was only a toyKarel Kiempie dit not come into contact with any germsJackie ate 180 lollies during productionFrance’s Landrover did not break down – really!The water temperature of the swimmingpool into which Brianjumped was 2°CAmalia Uys actually loves childrenRegardt van den Bergh was not injured during production…He also did not harm anyoneFilmed on location in Oudtshoorn, Klein Karoo,South Africa©Kaapland Films 2012All Rights Reserved