Dee Zone crew to test mettle in USA
Kgomotso Molelekeng | Thursday February 27, 2014 16:52
The trip is a result of Dee-Zone emerging the winner of the local version of the competition held last year titled Botswana 48-hour film challenge, The company scooped nine awards. The competition was the first of its kind. Dee-Zone marketing manager Vincent Steez Tiro told Showbiz that they would be receiving an award and a trophy. Tiro added that they would also be given the opportunity to screen and compete in the world finals, expected to feature more than 100 contestants from around the world.
“We won the Botswana challenge and now we have to battle it out with winners from other countries,” he said. Tiro explained to Showbiz that in the 48-hour film challenge, film companies had to make a complete short film in just two days. He added that the 48-hour film project’s mission was to advance filmmaking and promote filmmakers. He said the competition encouraged filmmakers and would-be filmmakers to get out there and make movies.
“The tight deadline of 48 hours puts the focus squarely on the filmmakers, emphasising creativity and team work skills. While the time limit places an unusual restriction on the filmmakers, it is also liberating by putting pressure to see who can excel and maintain focus, creativity and skill,” he said. He further said winners of the competition would receive training on filming and casting. He pointed out that nine Dee Zone crew and cast members, would grace the event for purposes of benefiting from networking.
“The traveling team includes technical personnel, which are director, producer, editor, creative director, graphics and animator and some main actors. Among them are talented presenters of Letlhabile. They will also film the journey for showcasing on BTV show, GMA and PRTV to inspire other youth,” he said. Dee- Zone productions was formed in 2008 through contribution from the Youth Development Fund (YDF) scheme. The company currently employs 35 individuals, mostly youth, on full time basis.
It is the brain behind TV productions such as Ntwakgolo and Letlhabile. It also has an exclusive segment on DStv, which is a breakfast show, called Good Morning Africa. The crew is expected home March 11.