South Africa has officially entered the race for next year’s 97th Academy Awards, selecting the Western Cape drama Old Righteous Blues by director Muneera Sallies to compete in the prestigious Best International Feature Film category.
As announced by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), the film was one of the final entries for the category, with the South African Academy Awards Selection Committee choosing it after an extensive judging process involving scored reviews and in-depth deliberations.
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So, what’s Old Righteous Blues about?
Set against the vibrant yet divided backdrop of a small town, Old Righteous Blues tells the powerful story of a young man determined to mend his fractured community by reviving the once-glorious Old Righteous Blues Christmas Choir Band (Kerskoor). Inspired by an original idea from writer and producer Carol Shore, the film delves deep into themes of family, legacy, and reconciliation.
IMDB
At its heart, the film is about overcoming personal limitations and the weight of a troubled past. For two decades, a bitter feud sparked by the protagonist’s father divided the community, splintering the choir into two rival factions. The ensuing years saw street battles, fractured families, and deep-seated tensions. Now, the young protagonist faces the daunting task of restoring not only the choir’s former glory but also healing the wounds that have torn his town apart.
Director Muneera Sallies shared her thoughts on the film’s poignant narrative, saying, “It’s an intense glimpse into a journey and into the heart of brotherhood, tapping into immense stores of pain, love, dreams, and courage.”
The film’s deeply emotional storyline, combined with its rich cultural setting, has already captivated audiences and critics alike.
IMDB
A trail of awards already in hand
Old Righteous Blues is no stranger to the spotlight. Before its Academy Award entry, the film already claimed an impressive 11 awards across festivals like Silwerskermfees, Romford Film Festival, and Panther City Film Festival.
Notable wins include:
- Best Supporting Actor at Silwerskermfees 2023: Joshwin Dyson
- Best Director at Romford Film Festival 2024: Muneera Sallies
- Best Actor at Romford Film Festival 2024: Ayden Croy
- Best Supporting Actor at Panther City Film Festival 2024: Stefan Erasmus
With its heartfelt narrative, stunning performances, and critical acclaim, Old Righteous Blues is set to make waves as it takes on the global stage at the Academy Awards. South Africa will be watching closely as this remarkable film, rooted in the country’s culture and history, goes for Oscar gold.
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Featured Image: IMDB
