LIFE, ABOVE ALL
Year: 2010
USA: Sony Pictures Classics
UK: Peccadillo Pictures
Cast: Khomotso Manyaka, Keaobaka Makanyane, Harriet Manamela, Lerato Mvelase, Tinah Mnumzana, Aubrey Poolo, Mapaseka Mathebe, Thato Kgaladi, Kgomotso Ditshwene, Rami Chuene, Jerry Marobyane, Tshepo Emmanuel Nonyane, Johanna Refilwe Sihlangu, Vusi Muzi Given Nyathi, Patrick Shai, Nelson Motloung, Ernest Mokoena, Mary Twala, Themba Ndaba, Samuel Masilela, Charlotte Mphake, Bhekifa Isaac Nyathi, Sarah Aphane, Foxy Riet, Solly Moeng, Mongezi Motaung, Oupa Mashiloane, Xolile Gama, Martha Maphaka, Alain Morel, Alphinah Matsepe, Nomusa Tshanagana, Gontse Masilela, Malanane Mohlamonyane, Lungelo Mahlangu, Regina Makitla, Wendy Makua, Zanele Xekwa, Carolie Nkosi, Selinah Madihlaba, Priscar Mashego
Director: Oliver Schmitz
Country: South Africa
Language: Sotho / Pedi
USA & UK: 106 mins
USA Rated: PG-13 for mature thematic material and some sexual content
UK Certificate: 12A contains moderate language and sex references
USA Release Date: 15 July 2011 (Limited Release)
UK Release Date: 27 May 2011 (Limited Release)
Synopsis
When 12 year old Chanda learns of a rumour about her family, it has already spread like wildfire through her small, dust-ridden village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Sensing that the gossip stems from prejudice and superstition, Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother and the truth.
LIFE, ABOVE ALL is a resonant and emotional drama about a young girl, 12 year-old Chanda, stunningly performed by first-time-actress Khomotso Manyaka, who fights the fear and shame that have poisoned her community. The film captures the enduring strength of loyalty and a courage powered by the heart.
Directed by award winning South African filmmaker Oliver Schmitz (MAPANTSULA, PARIS, JE T´AIME), it is based on the international best-selling novel "Chanda's Secrets" by Allan Stratton.
Official Selection:
Un Certain Regard - 2010 Cannes Film Festival
2010 Toronto International Film Festival
2011 San Francisco International Film Festival
2011 Ebertfest: Roger Ebert's Film Festival