Review Fix chats with writer and director Zwelethu Radebe, who discusses “The Hangman†and the impact he’d like it to have on cinema.
About the Film:
Zwelethu Radebe’s harrowing tale is set near the end of Apartheid and has won multitude prestigious awards. The film stars Thato Dhladhla (Thina Sobabili: The Two of Us) and was written and directed by Zwelethu Radebe. This important drama has now been selected for the Oscar-qualifying film festival HollyShorts in Los Angeles and Urbanworld Film Festival in New York.
Review Fix: Was it difficult to direct this film?
Zwelethu Radebe: I think to direct the film was challenging at specific times – working against the clock and getting the performance arch’s right for the actors to deliver. Looking back in hindsight developing the script was far tougher than directing it.
Review Fix: What was the feeling like on set?
Radebe: It was beautiful, a once in a lifetime experience, the production of the film had a great spirit and everyone was equally passionate about making a great film. I wish I could do it all over again.
Review Fix: What stands out the most about your cast?
Radebe: What stood out the most was there understanding of the characters, which made the film so authentic. They really embodied the roles like they were tailor-made for them.
Review Fix: What makes this film special?
Radebe: There’s a great presence or atmosphere the film has which I’ve witnessed when the audience around the world watch the film. It always creates the same response, which is pin drop silence as the film unpacks itself and then a sigh of relief once it’s over – that’s special.
Review Fix: Who will enjoy it the most?
Radebe: The film has a global resonance because it deals with family dynamics and how our actions affect those we love.
Review Fix: How does it feel to be a part of Hollyshorts Film Festival?
Radebe: It’s awesome I’m so proud of the film and everyone who was involved in making it. HollyShorts is a prestigious festival and I feel blessed to screen beside such great films from across the globe.
Review Fix: Why is the subject matter of this film important?
Radebe: It’s important because the film deals with the destructive power of concealing the truth from those we love.
Review Fix: Do you connect with it in any way?
Radebe: Yes absolutely, I grew up not knowing the truth of who was responsible for murdering my father and till this day have never found out. I had to learn forgiveness to move on, instead of letting hatred rule over my heart. I used some of my own life experiences to create the fictional narrative.

Review Fix: Bottom Line: Why must someone see this film?
Radebe: The film explores the human condition of why we keep secrets as human beings.
Review Fix: What’s next?
Radebe: I’m currently developing the feature film version of The Hangman with a Los Angeles based production company.
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