This week’s Spotlight episode features an Oscar-winning animation, Gospel sensation Sneziey, a glimpse at South African Fashion Week, and a local stoner comedy. 

AT CINEMAS:  THE BOY AND THE HERON 

A fantastical, dreamlike world sets the stage for the story of Mahito, a 12-year-old boy facing a daunting new life after losing his mother. The headstrong boy meets a mischievous heron who helps him uncover the truth about himself.  Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away), it scooped the Oscar for Best Animated Film. The film has been released in Japanese with English subtitles, and in a dubbed English version, with a voice cast that includes Christian Bale, Florence Pugh and Robert Pattinson. 

STREAMING ON NETFLIX:  SOWETO BLAZE 

The local stoner-comedy, Soweto Blaze, tells the story of a small-time weed dealer Mo, yearning to make an honest living.  But there is no quick or clean escape, as his dim-witted friends pull him into a get-rich-quick kidnapping scheme that quickly spirals out of control.  Directed by Brad Katzen, (The Domestic), and starring Matli Mohapeloa, Dimpho More and Nhlanhla Masiya, expect a fast-paced fun ride. 

SNEZIEY LIVE CONCERT TOUR 

Three years after her chart-topping debut album, gospel artist Sneziey Msomi makes a triumphant return with her latest EP, Sibonga Umusa. Her inaugural live performance will take place on April 26 in her hometown, Durban, where she will be joined by support acts Malusi Mbokazi, Jumbo and Dumi Mkokstad, and a surprise guest.  Additional dates to be announced soon. 

SOUTH AFRICAN FASHION WEEK: 

Don’t miss the glitz and glamour in Spotlight’s insert on the opening night of South Africa’s biggest fashion event, where celebs and designers rub shoulders. On at the Mall of Africa, it features 10 shows across three days, showcasing 30 collections.  Look out for work from designers such as Imprint, Jacques van der Walt, Ephraim Molingoana and more. 

COMPETITIONS:

Spotlight features 2 competitions this week. 

1. The Boy and the Heron Fans has inspired exclusive movie merchandise hampers, and we also have 2 Tickets for the Gospel sensation Sneziey’s Live Concert in Durban on 26 April up for grabs. 

Name boy at centre of the acclaimed anime cinema release:  The Boy and the Heron

2. Name the latest EP title of the Award-nominated Gospel artist Sneziey

Full competition details and questions, head over to Spotlight South Africa on Facebook. T's and C’s apply. The competition closes on 24 April 2024.