Skeletons is a film by UJ Arts & Culture, a division of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA). Skeletons was conceived and created during the height of the COVID -19 lockdown, a time when theatres were shut down. The script was rewritten for a film, giving way to an experimental new project of a theatre-film hybrid.
Set in the heart of the Maluti mountains, in Lesotho; Skeletons grapples with social and political issues. This magical realist film casts a spotlight on matters of land and ownership. Stories of four multi-dimensional characters unfold in a space and time of absolute scarcity, and they wrestle to break free from the vicious cycle of oppression, Skeletons confronts the notions of home, belonging and identity.
Directed by UJ Arts & Culture Resident Director Jade Bowers, written by Head of Division Pieter Jacobs and produced by Operations Manager Karabo Legoabe with the talented Bonga Nkomo as Cinematographer. The team has worked to produce several creative research papers looking at different elements of the process, including writing, directing and production design. Skeletons brings a talented cast to the screen featuring Mpho Osei-Tutu in the pivotal role of Mmutla. Wayne van Rooyen as the thief Vince, who is on the run dragging with him an enslaved person. Roy, played by Jacques Blignaut and a clairvoyant enchantress. Lily, played by Carla Fonseca-Mokgata.
Javett-UP First Friday Film Club is made possible through continuous support from the National Institute of Humanities and Social Science (NIHSS).