South African Film and Television Awards 2010 winners announced
Winners of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAS) were announced on Saturday night at a glittering award ceremony that took place at the State Theatre in Pretoria. The crème de la crème of South African Film and Television industry gathered at the State Theatre to witness as the best in the country received honour for their creative excellence. The show was broadcast live on SABC 2 from 20:00.
"The SAFTAS committee would like to congratulate all the nominees and salute all of the winners. Though we were faced with financial challenges, we managed to put together a show that will be remembered by all. A big thank you to the entire team that put in much effort to ensure that the SAFTAS become a success," said Azania Muendane, NFVF Acting Head of Marketing and Public Affairs.
Hosted by award-winning comedian, John Vlismas, one of South Africa’s most creative international comics, the show featured performances by MXO, Just Ginger and electrifying Jamali.
The SAFTAS on a yearly basis honour individuals who tirelessly contribute to the film and television industry. This year three Life Time Achievers were honoured; Katinka Heyns for direction and production, Joe Mafela for Television performance and Dr. John Kani for stage and film. The awards also recognised and remembered esteemed individuals who contributed to the industry, and have since passed on, through the Posthumus Lifetime Achievement Award. Those honoured in this category are Thys Heyns for Production, Percival Rubens for Direction, Dirk De Villiers for Production, Writing and Direction, and Zakes Mokae for Performance.
Shirley Adams won the Best Feature Film Award, contested by some of the best films currently released in the country. Shirley Adams was up against Izulu Lami (My Secret Sky) and White Wedding. The film, directed by newcomer Oliver Hermanus, tells the story of a woman who looses her family to violence and poverty, but gains her own sense of self worth.
AFDA Film School received a Certificate of Recognition for Development.
The awards were a culmination of an intense judging process, which received a record 221 entries. Industry professionals who are highly recognized in the fields of television and film judged the entries with the process overseen by two Overall Chairpersons Paul Raleigh and Coco Cachalia. PriceWaterhouse Coopers audited all the entries and the judging process.
The performers were dressed by Cameroon of Sandton Square.
The objective of the SAFTAS is to celebrate excellence with regard to talent and creativity in the South African film and television industry. The SAFTAS 2010 took on the theme of National Identity. Clive Morris Production produced the award ceremony.
Download the SAFTAS 2010 winners' list,For queries email Naomi Mokhele
