IDIDTHAT Craft Awards Rankings 2020

Every month IDIDTHAT teams up with leaders in the ad and production industry to award the finest in South African film and production craft. It’s now our honour to share with you the Official IDIDTHAT Craft Awards Rankings 2020. These truly were the best of the best in the industry in Film Production, Post Production, Cinematography, Music & Sound, Animation & Visual Effects in South Africa. Congratulations you beautiful clever people you!

#1. Strangelove

Strangelove Studios is a completely talent owned boutique Post Production facility based in Cape Town. We specialize in both local and International TV Commercials and offer world class Editorial, Colouring and Finishing services.

Best in Craft (Editing Craft): November 2020
Strangelove | Daniel Mitchell
Volkswagen ‘Mandisa’

“This is pure cinematic storytelling at its finest. No tricks or tired “looks”. With beautiful performances, incredible pacing – it’s a visual feast that takes you on a journey with a character that you as a viewer are rooting for from start to finish. As they say ‘if it looks like an ad and smells like an ad, it’s probably not a very good ad.’ This does not look or smell like an ad. Nice.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Stephanie Symonds, Creative Director at Saatchi & Saatchi

Best in Craft (Full Post Craft): November 2020
Strangelove | Daniel Mitchell ( Editor), Nic Apostoli (Grade), Charmaine Greyling (VFX)
Volkswagen ‘Kitty’

“The team from Strangelove did an exceptional job and Daniel Mitchell’s edit takes this whole visual masterpiece to an even more powerful level. Well done!’
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Lebogang Rasethaba, director at Egg Films/Arcade

Best in Craft (Full Post Craft): October 2020
Strangelove | Xander Vander (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Colour), Charmaine Greyling (Online)
PHFAT ‘Whatever You Like’ (Music Video)

“This pace of this edit makes what could have felt crazily chaotic actually land very easily and gave just enough for me to get the feeling of each shot and move along knowing all I needed to know.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Grant Sithole, ECD of FOXP2

Craft Mention (Full Post Craft): October 2020
Strangelove | Xander Vander (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Colour), Charmaine Greyling (Online)
PHFAT ‘Whatever You Like’ (Music Video)

“A visually breathtaking film, intimate, yet abstract in its handling of love and loss. This music video sucks us into a world that is both foreign and familiar. It’s dark and moody and incredibly sexy, so much so that at times I was grateful to be watching alone. It took me on one hell of a rollercoaster of a ride and made me yearn for my youth. A visual and visceral masterpiece. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Cindy Lee, Director at The Star Film Company

Craft Mention (Editing Craft): October 2020
Strangelove | Xander Vander (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Grade)
SHOWMAX ‘Gamechangers’

“This could not have been an easy feat by any stretch of the imagination. The edit and grade topped of what is clearly a well worked piece of VFX meets live-action. Love it.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Grant Sithole, ECD of FOXP2

Craft Mention (Full Post Craft): April 2020
Strangelove | Xander Vander (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Colour), Darian Simon (Online)
‘Boni & Wes’ (Short Film)

“The short film ‘Boni and Wes’ finds itself back on the radar this month, and earns a special mention for the Editing, Colouring and Online contributions that were all unsung parts that helped craft a fine piece of work as a whole.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Greg Gray, Director at Romance Films

Craft Mention (Full Post Craft) CAMPAIGN: February 2020
Strangelove | Kobus Loots (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Grade),Charmaine Greyling & Darian Simon (VFX)
Chicken Licken ‘Easy Bucks Campaign’

“Strangelove did an excellent job of pulling all of these pieces together. The edit, VFX and Grade are all very well done. I especially enjoyed the VFX on the Nollywood scene. They had some great content to work with and really did an excellent job making it all work seamlessly together. Well done to Kobus, Nic, Charmaine and Darian.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Marc Algranti, EP / Music Supervisor at Pulse Music

Craft Mention (Full Post Craft) CAMPAIGN: February 2020
Strangelove | Kobus Loots (Edit), Nic Apostoli (Grade),Charmaine Greyling & Darian Simon (VFX)
Chicken Licken ‘Easy Bucks Campaign’

None of this is possible without the slick editing by Kobus Loots, the beautiful grade by Nic Apostoli, as well as the true to form visual effects Charmaine Greyling and Darian Simon. Gold standard post-production from Strangelove.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Kabelo Moshapalo, ECD at TBWA Hunt Lascaris

#2. Giant Films

Entertainment that moves people.

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): October 2020
Giant Films | Paul Ward
PHFAT ‘Whatever You Like’ (Music Video)

“In a time where it’s not quite always clear whether ‘I feel like I’ve seen that before’ is a good or a bad thing, I enjoyed the craft of what felt like a fluid combination of a familiar storytelling technique turned quite a way up by excellent craft and intertwined beautifully with the music. I was captivated from the very beginning (could have been the Cressida with the dope bonnet) down to the very last shot. Well done.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Grant Sithole, ECD of FOXP2

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): October 2020
Giant Films | Paul Ward
PHFAT ‘Whatever You Like’ (Music Video)

“A visually breathtaking film, intimate, yet abstract in its handling of love and loss. This music video sucks us into a world that is both foreign and familiar. It’s dark and moody and incredibly sexy, so much so that at times I was grateful to be watching alone. It took me on one hell of a rollercoaster of a ride and made me yearn for my youth. A visual and visceral masterpiece. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Cindy Lee, Director at The Star Film Company

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): August 2020
Giant Films | Paul Ward
Sanlam ‘Caitlin’

“The story of Caitlin Rooskrantz is not an easy one to tell. There’s a lot of backstory. A lot of emotional highs and lows and multiple timelines to unravel. Yet it is this complexity that makes it worth telling. I love how Paul Ward managed to distil all of this down to its beautiful essence without losing any of the powerful nuance. He gives us just enough for us to piece the puzzle together through a selection of archival footage, audio clips and, of course, the anchor moment with Caitlin on the bus. By the time we get to the end it feels like we’ve been through the journey with her. We know how she feels and what she’s got to do. The asymmetric bar sequence near the end is a work of art on its own. Please pass my regards to the editor as well.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Tseliso Rangaka, CCO at FCB Africa

Best in Craft (Direction Craft) CAMPAIGN: February 2020
Giant Films | Karien Cherry
Chicken Licken ‘Easy Bucks Campaign’

“Whether you’re taking it all in as holistic brand TVC or branching off to the genre-specific executions that span various and quite specific cinematic worlds, the dynamic direction flows effortlessly. Every scene and every scenario carefully considered to ensure that each performance lands its intended punchline. Lots of fun and lots of laughs, packed full of local flavour.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Kabelo Moshapalo, ECD at TBWA Hunt Lascaris

Best in Craft (Direction Craft) CAMPAIGN: February 2020
Giant Films | Karien Cherry
Chicken Licken ‘Easy Bucks Campaign’

“Karien really had a massive job on her hands with this campaign. She absolutely nailed all the genres. I don’t how she managed to direct so many different genres in what I imagine was a short amount of time. Each of the scenes are credible and the comedy is on point. She managed to get wonderful performances and delivery out her actors. Well done to Karien for getting them to all to work together so seamlessly, these are all really enjoyable to watch and put a smile on my face every time I watch them.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Marc Algranti, EP / Music Supervisor at Pulse Music

#3. Bioscope Films

We have a wide range of very talented and diverse directors who shoot tv ads, music videos, web series, feature films and content.

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): November 2020
Bioscope Films | Fausto Becatti
Volkswagen ‘Mandisa’

“This is pure cinematic storytelling at its finest. No tricks or tired “looks”. With beautiful performances, incredible pacing – it’s a visual feast that takes you on a journey with a character that you as a viewer are rooting for from start to finish. As they say ‘if it looks like an ad and smells like an ad, it’s probably not a very good ad.’ This does not look or smell like an ad. Nice.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Stephanie Symonds, Creative Director at Saatchi & Saatchi

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): November 2020
Bioscope Films | Fausto Becatti
Volkswagen ‘Kitty’

“This whole process has cemented in me the undeniable fact that Fausto is extremely talented. This piece reveals an unwavering appetite for strong visuals that pierce through the visual clutter of the internet in 2020. What’s so dope about this story with Kit is that it’s a story we all know, but this take on it felt so fresh because of the strong visual extension to a powerful narrative. The shot of Kit in a snowy city, I’m not even sure what’s happening there, but that moment was the moment my envy turned into respect. Man is good y’all.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Lebogang Rasethaba, director at Egg Films/Arcade

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): October 2020
Bioscope Films | Fausto Becatti
Castle Milk Stout ‘Culture Will Never Die’

Talk about a film that literally gets under your skin. I watched it a few times. I felt compelled. And the more I watched it, the more I saw, the more I felt. The cinematography is rich thanks to the amazingly talented Thomas Revington, the images, carefully curated are powerful, the edit, a piece of magic all on its own. The director takes you on a journey, floats you into dreams and drops you back into reality. Often we have a beautiful film broken by a terrible narrator. Not this time. Fausto knows how to tell a story both visually and verbally. He manages to bring the beauty of a stylized piece without losing the honesty and integrity, and dare I say, the heart of the story. I love how he uses sound design over music to suck us in. The film, like the brand, feels seeped in tradition and pride. It’s not just a celebration of culture, it’s a celebration of filmmaking.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Cindy Lee, Director at The Star Film Company

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): October 2020
Bioscope Films | Fausto Becatti
Castle Milk Stout ‘Culture Will Never Die’

“This is a beautiful piece of storytelling. The many facets of Zulu culture represented and narrated effortlessly. Amongst a lot more excellence, the sequence of the elevated guy falling back down to earth was brilliantly executed. Really well done.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Grant Sithole, ECD of FOXP2

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): September 2019
Bioscope Films | Zipho Dlangamandla
MINA ‘Prince’

“Congratulations to Zipho in the manner he approached a sensitive subject. Zipho’s ability to make the audience empathise with the subject of his film was masterful. Watching Zipho develop as a filmmaker excites me, I cannot wait to see him get bigger boards and thrive under the mentorship of the good people at the Bioscope. Congratulations to Zipho and all involved.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Ernest Nkosi, Director at Bomb Commercials

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): January 2020
Bioscope Films | Fausto Becatti
Edgars ‘Imperfection’

“Fausto has managed to bring his modern direction edge into this amazing film for Edgars. It is very nicely cast and each frame has been thoroughly considered in art direction, framing performance restraint and grading.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Roanna Williams, ECD at Black River FC

#4. The Star Film Company

Star Films is a South African based commercial production company, based in Johannesburg. Representing multi-talented directors Cindy Lee, Markstry, Matthys Boshoff, PHI 2.0 (Jonathan Parkinson and Matshepo Maja), Sam Sterling-Court, Tebza Malope, Tristan Holmes and Wim Steytler

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): August 2020
The Star Film Company | Cindy Lee
First for Women ‘Fearless’

“A beautifully crafted, well told, impactful story with a strong message. All the elements from direction, VFX, Cinematography and Sound work well together. Love the song. Well done Cindy and team Star.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Louis Enslin, Owner and Engineer at Produce Sound

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): September 2020
The Star Film Company | Cindy Lee
Standard Bank ‘The Inventor’

“I’m a sucker for a beautifully told period piece, the passage of time is beautifully orchestrated, weaving seamlessly through the different eras with believable performances. The camera language is complemented by an exquisite edit with beautifully timed match cuts. The art direction beautifully captures the nostalgic past paying great homage to the Toyota Cressida a classic loved car of that era. The rich textures in the grade are complemented by the music that brings together the entire piece. Congratulations to all involved on an amazing piece of film.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Ernest Nkosi, Director at Bomb Commercials

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): July 2020
The Star Film Company | Tebza Malope
Chicken Licken ‘Soul food for a Soul Nation’

“And humour wins again! This one deserves a special mention for its all-round craft. The art direction and framing made it stand out on a reel of serially underlit, moody commercials. It’s an overdue visual feast, beautifully paced and edited to ensure each little punchline finds just the right beat. Quality all-round!”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Bridget Johnson, ECD at The Riverbed Agency

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): July 2020
The Star Film Company | Tebza Malope
Chicken Licken ‘Soul food for a Soul Nation’

“Chicken Licken scripts are amongst some of those all of us directors salivate over. So, it is always lovely to see someone make the most of every frame. The choice of cast, the captivating details tucked away in each vignette, the deliberately cinematic quality to the storytelling, the deliciously contrasted grade and the overall joy that shot out of our screens when we needed it most, gives it that standout quality that had me looking twice. Well done to everyone involved.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Dani Hynes, Director at Made Films

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): June 2020
The Star Film Company | Tebza Malope
Elo Zar ‘Bophelo’ (Music Video)

“This is not your typical music video. Shot and cast beautifully, this music video takes us on a journey of an unexpected showdown between two Gogos. I’ve always wondered when local filmmakers would begin to really explore fantastical genres in their work, and Tebza brings us a step closer to this reality. The visuals and the soundtrack work so well together, and the frames are beautifully captured. Of course, the two leads really make the film shine. I look forward to more of these conceptually considered pieces in the world of music videos.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Sibusiso Sitole, CCO and co-founder of The Odd Number

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): April 2020
The Star Film Company | Sam Sterling-Court
Metropolitan ‘Get Up’

“With these types of pieces, I always think it must be so hard for the director to make a “chosen” cast believable or a selection of “real” people watchable. Well done to Sam for doing both in this case. It was hard to tell if this was a cast or a selection of actual consumers. Good work on getting those performances and making a very used casting tape technique quite watchable both through the performances and the treatment as well. Great work for a first job.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Jake Bester, Creative Partner / Executive Creative Director at M&C Saatchi Abel

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): January 2020
The Star Film Company | Tebza Malope
Game ‘You’ve got Game’

“Love this spot. Why? Because it’s so great for a brand like Game. It’s fun, quirky, South African and makes me want to step into “my Game”. It feels authentically South African through the cast, scenes and the local humour.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Roanna Williams, ECD at Black River FC

#5. 0307 Films

“…a love for human interaction is at the heart of what we do…we’re drawn to the complexities of intimate personal narratives, exploring the domino effects of our actions and constantly rethinking the visual language with which to craft our stories.”

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): September 2020
0307 Films | Kim Geldenhuys
Liberty ‘Weird & Wonderful’

“I’m going to admit, I always find judging this show quite difficult. My imposter syndrome comes right up, takes a seat next to me at the laptop, and goes, “SOOO whatchoo doing there? Judging film craft, eh? Interesting. Because can you even tell a prime lens from a prime rib?” Begone, Imposter Syndrome. I’m just going to be totally honest about my choices, and my reasons for making them, without trying to throw around words like “bokeh.” (Which I have probably spelled wrong.) For me, my favourite piece of direction was Liberty “Weird and Wonderful.” I mean, it’s basically a montage. But the creative choices elevate it way the hell out of montage land into something really relatable and intriguing. From the way the opening scene unfolds like the beginning of a movie, every scene has been carefully considered to bring the maximum amount of meaning and nuance to each line, and not in a “show and tell” way either. None of the choices are predictable or hackneyed: I like that the woman who’s taking ages to get ready isn’t found in a “Sex and the City” type glamourous walk-in-closet. I love that the scene about us not being able to hide our feelings is set in a sort of male beauty competition setting (yeah, I know they’re power lifters or something, but I love how it plays with the beauty queen trope.) I love that there’s a woman staring at a statue’s bum in the last scene. In a financial institution ad. I’m not absolutely sure why it’s there (apart from the fact that it links with the previous scene). But hell, I like that too. It doesn’t quite add up. It’s not entirely rational. There’s something very left-brained about the way the visuals and the copy work here which fits so sweetly with what the message of the ad is. ”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Fran Luckin, CCO Grey Africa

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): June 2020
0307 Films | Kim Geldenhuys
Telekom ‘Cyber Mobbing’

“This is a beautiful piece of film. It gently and empathetically tells the story of an individual being constantly harassed by internet trolls. The casting is authentic to the story, and the camera work brings us into the protagonist’s life in the most intimate way. Kim manages to tell a fairly prosaic journey, in quite a revealing, lonely and painful way. Each shot feels like a beautiful portrait, and enhances the rawness of the film without feeling too stylized. The subtly, nuance and honesty of this film, wrapped up in Jordan Rakei’s Midnight Mischief, makes for a moving film you could watch over and over again.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Sibusiso Sitole, CCO and co-founder of The Odd Number

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): June 2020
0307 Films | Kim Geldenhuys
Telekom ‘Cyber Mobbing’

“Many brands have embraced timely causes over the years, but very few have done it with the sensitivity of Kim Geldenhuys’s piece for Telekom. Kim focuses on creating empathy, putting us near-wordlessly in the shoes of the young man and juxtaposing his day to day life with the abuse he is subjected to over the internet. The elements all work in perfect concert, which brings me to the cinematography and the edit. Adam Bentel’s lush imagery lends the spot a sense of intimacy while Matthias Graatz’s editing brings it all together, telling the story at an engaging pace, free of any gimmickry. A thoughtful, beautifully executed piece of work.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Evy Katz, Editor at Left Post Production

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): January 2020
0307 Films | Kim Geldenhuys
Hyundai Genesis ‘Nothing Feels Like The First Time’

“What a visual feast and an enticing voice over. You are drawn in by the epic cinematography and dynamic direction. Each shot is an art piece, perfectly framed and considered. The beautiful grade and powerful dynamic shots of human firsts flow effortlessly into impressive car shots. I could watch this over and over.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Roanna Williams, ECD at Black River FC

#5. Darling Films

Darling by name, Darlings by reputation.

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): December 2020
Darling Films | Slim
Aware.org ‘If you Drink, Don’t Drive’

“We’ve all become a little desensitised to drinking and driving commercials, which often resort to shock tactics to make us stop and think. But this concept has shifted the focus from the driver to the passenger seats, and it was executed in a way that had the right impact. Kudos to Slim for the sincere performances and simple storytelling.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Claudi Potter, Creative Director at Joe Public United

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): November 2020
Darling Films | Director Kit
Afro Punk ‘Dare to Fly’

“I just love this spot. When I watch the Afro Punk piece I see a mark of excellence. Director Kit is making such great work, on repeat as if rehearsed she just gets better, stronger, smarter.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Lebogang Rasethaba, director at Egg Films/Arcade

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): September 2020
Darling Films | Chloe Coetsee
Savanna ‘Launch’

“Again with the confessions: this piece of work was done for our agency. But I want to applaud the director here, for using restraint and superb judgement to let the script and the actor shine.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Fran Luckin, CCO Grey Africa

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): July 2020
Darling Films | Director Kit (Co-Directed by Vuyo Mpantsha – ISAD)
Netflix ‘Made by Africans, Watched by the World’

“Made by Africans deserves a shout-out for being a perfect blend of excellent art direction, amazing wardrobe, authentic and powerful moments with our continent’s most incredible creators, actors, writers, artists and talent. A compelling and breathtaking showcase for all the world to see. Nicely done!”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Dani Hynes, Director at Made Films

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): June 2020
Darling Films | Ross Garrett
Standard Bank ‘It Can Be’

“Easily the sexiest bank commercial I’ve seen in a very long time! Ross Garett is obviously in his element, the shots are a menagerie of grades, textures, colours and styles that work beautifully together to create a film that is a credible glimpse into a youthful state of being. The sheer attitude of the visuals, the voice-over, and the shots are so captivating you’re left wanting more. Well done to Standard Bank for being brave enough to make such a stunning piece of film.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Sibusiso Sitole, CCO and co-founder of The Odd Number

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): January 2020
Darling Films | Ross Garrett
Johnnie Walker ‘Trevor Noah’

“Since 1999, the Johnnie Walker brand has been telling people to “Keep Walking”, inspiring people to think of their own journey of progression. This month Best of Reel for direction, goes to Ross Garret’s, Johnnie Walker “Trevor Noah” which without a doubt inspires progress. Through a fresh, modern fast-paced direction style, Ross managed to honour the brands history, where it has come from, and where it’s heading. If you break down the story being told, it is a very simple one and one we know. But through his loose camera work, dynamic editing approach, old school projector effects, music, sound and visuals, he has managed to create a film that keeps you engaged and inspires you to ‘keep walking’. Nicely done!!!!”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Roanna Williams, ECD at Black River FC

#7. Gentlemen Films

We make films and stuff.

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): May 2020
Gentlemen Films | Greg Rom
Short Film ‘Loot’

“This short film is another great example of how to engage your audience from start to finish. And in my opinion it also follows one of the most important rules when it comes to drawing viewers in, it engages the imagination. It offers up visual suggestions and your mind fills in the blanks. Though it’s set in a bank, a scene most of us are familiar with thanks to countless movies, the creators have given it a twist that makes this piece mesmerizing and rewarding all the way to the end. Add the charming performances and I was won over by this film. Congratulations to Greg Rom and Evy Katz.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Molefi Thulo, ECD at Ogilvy Joburg

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): May 2020
Gentlemen Films | Greg Rom
Short Film ‘Loot’

“Time is a great indicator of a piece of work’s craft value. Despite the fact that this film isn’t timely or relevant or new or edgy, Greg’s deft handling of the leads’ performances earns him my Direction Craft Best this month. A tonally sure-footed short with solid storytelling, it entertained me all the way through. Special mention to the sound treatment which brings this imaginative story to life. Congratulations.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Karien Cherry, Director at Giant Films

Best in Craft (Writing/Screenwriting Craft): May 2020
Gentlemen Films | Greg Rom & Evy Katz
Short Film ‘Loot’

“This short film is another great example of how to engage your audience from start to finish. And in my opinion it also follows one of the most important rules when it comes to drawing viewers in, it engages the imagination. It offers up visual suggestions and your mind fills in the blanks. Though it’s set in a bank, a scene most of us are familiar with thanks to countless movies, the creators have given it a twist that makes this piece mesmerizing and rewarding all the way to the end. Add the charming performances and I was won over by this film. Congratulations to Greg Rom and Evy Katz.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Molefi Thulo, ECD at Ogilvy Joburg

Craft Mention (Writing/Screenwriting Craft): May 2020
Gentlemen Films | Greg Rom & Evy Katz
Short Film ‘Loot’

“You can’t make a good film without a good script. Well done to Greg and Evy for developing this offbeat idea into a story that keeps surprising us. Good old storytelling gets a well deserved Special Mention.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Karien Cherry, Director at Giant Films

#8. Egg Films

We do tv ads, branded content, music videos, short films & other things too…

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): November 2020
Egg Films | Zwelethu Radebe
Carling Black Label ‘Class of its Own’

“There’s a sensitivity and a subtlety to the performances that really lets the characters live and breathe. Thanks for the feelings Zwelethu.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Stephanie Symonds, Creative Director at Saatchi & Saatchi

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): November 2020
Egg Films | Zwelethu Radebe
Carling Black Label ‘Class of its Own’

“Man this is a beautifully crafted and impactful piece of work from Zwele. The performances are understated and immediately draw you in. The piece is cinematic and evocative while still feeling real.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Lebogang Rasethaba, director at Egg Films/Arcade

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): October 2020
Egg Films | Adrian de sa Garces
SHOWMAX ‘Gamechangers’

“This could not have been an easy feat by any stretch of the imagination. The edit and grade topped of what is clearly a well worked piece of VFX meets live-action. Love it.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Grant Sithole, ECD of FOXP2

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): August 2020
Egg Films | Robin Adams
(neo) normal (Short Film)

“I watched this three times in a row and still couldn’t understand it. I enjoyed the challenge though. It’s kind of like a symbolism easter egg hunt, exploring the different ways in which the world as we know it has gone upside down and sideways. The film is completely crazy but it also makes intuitive sense. The new normal after all, is nothing but. Maybe Robin should share the storyboard with us.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Tseliso Rangaka, CCO at FCB Africa

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): April 2020
Egg Films | Robin Adams
Momentum Metropolitan Holdings CSI ‘Rhiza Babuyile’

“I really liked the off-camera reading of the subject’s letter: It had a noticeable effect on the character and really brought out a great piece of performance. It also really drew me in and made me want to watch further.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Jake Bester, Creative Partner / Executive Creative Director at M&C Saatchi Abel

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): April 2020
Egg Films | Robin Adams
Momentum Metropolitan Holdings CSI ‘Rhiza Babuyile’

“Two testimonial commercials that are worth a special mention, come at a time where the strength of community, hope and opportunity are giving the people of South Africa the strength to weather this storm. Justice Mukheli’s ‘Sakhumzi’ and Robin Adam’s ‘Rhiza Babuyile’ are very different in execution, but are both moving testaments to the power of strength and support in a time of need.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Greg Gray, Director at Romance Films

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): March 2020
Egg Films | Zwelethu Radebe
Vicks ‘Where Joy Lives’ #TouchOfCare

“A close contender for Best in Craft as all aspects were of such a high standard. It loses its way a bit in the middle, a trap we perhaps fall into when duration is not an issue and we become a tad indulgent. However, the performance, cinematography and edit work hand in hand to deliver on this emotional story. The music is handled well around the narration and while perhaps a little expected, still lends well to the mood. Congratulations to all on the hard work apparent in this piece.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Ricky Boyd, Film Editor at Deliverance Post

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): February 2020
Egg Films | Zwelethu Radebe
Castle ‘Africa 5’s’

“I like how it feels so authentically Pan African, gritty and multi-textured from great casting, as well as rich locally nuanced scenes. Leaving you with memorable beautiful people, spaces and notably street-level football action. All this complimented by the fast-paced camerawork and energetic edit with quick cuts bringing the exciting dynamic 5 a side sports format to life.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Kabelo Moshapalo, ECD at TBWA Hunt Lascaris

#8. Sketchbook Studios

Sketchbook Studios is a team of forward-thinking content creators and a leader in online short-form video. We believe in the power of video to inspire, educate and entertain audiences.

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): September 2020
Sketchbook | Glen Biderman-Pam
Kreepy Krauly ‘My Kreepy Teacher’

“I couldn’t leave this one out. Glen Biederman-Pam scores fifteen out of ten for totally nailing the voice and mannerisms of Craig Foster. Small budget. Huge impact.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Fran Luckin, CCO Grey Africa

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): August 2020
Sketchbook | Ari Kruger
10x Investments ‘Hoverboard’

“Simplicity is often the best approach for me, cleverly put together. And I’m a sucker for ‘funny adds’ I love these. Simple and well-executed. ”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Louis Enslin, Owner and Engineer at Produce Sound

Best in Craft (Direction & Writing Craft): July 2020
Sketchbook | Glen Biderman-Pam
Short Film ‘Love Locked’

“I don’t think there’s ever been a greater need for humour. And the fact that this piece is all about lockdown, the very thing that’s made the world so weird, makes it an even more welcome surprise. Love Locked tells the story of a couple – you’re not sure whether they’re an actual couple or just roommates – who are forced into isolation together. Through short, sharp scenes we go from awkward moments as the couple navigates their shared space, to the inescapable tension that builds and brings the short film its climax. It’s funny, it’s familiar. It’s also nicely written, well cast and performed. I thought the edit and use of audio were smart too. Well done. ”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Bridget Johnson, ECD at The Riverbed Agency

Best in Craft (Direction & Writing Craft): July 2020
Sketchbook | Glen Biderman-Pam
Short Film ‘Love Locked’

“We get so caught up in the crazy wall to wall stories that we tell, we forget that nuance and non-verbal cues are captivating and charming too. Glen’s sensitive observation and underplayed real moments perfectly capture what it is to be a human in love and held hostage in a pandemic with your “better” half. It is the mini Corona-coaster of emotion that holds you in the story while the central characters go from politely ensconced in domestic bliss to the borderline psychotic’s we all shamefully erred toward when cleaning, cooking and sourdough became obsessions. It is a well-told, beautifully expressed tale of these unprecedented times and its heart is what won me over. The genius in the writing is in what Glen chose not to say but show instead. It’s often in the things we don’t say that we are heard the most clearly, particularly around those we love.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Dani Hynes, Director at Made Films

#10. Figment Films

Figment is a creative production company focusing on commercial, narrative and long-form development.

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): October 2020
Figment Films | Jolynn Minnaar
Sanlam ‘Runner’ (Director’s Cut)

“I’ve seen this execution before, but it’s Jolynn’s casting and beautiful handling of performance that warrants a SPECIAL MENTION. I was swept up in the emotion of the story from beginning to end. The grade is beautiful, and the timing and pace of the editing is superb. I love how even with so much going on, the focus always remains on the woman and her emotions. For me, it’s the music that lets this piece down. It doesn’t seem as considered or as crafted as the rest of the film which is a pity as that could have elevated the film even more.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Cindy Lee, Director at The Star Film Company

Craft Mention (Direction Craft): April 2020
Figment Films | Robin Goode
Sanlam ‘Miss’

“During this unusual time of lockdown, the parameters of producing work have completely changed, and this, in turn, will impact on how work is crafted. It will compromise most projects’ full potential. I would like to propose a temporary category that showcases work that’s done against all odds and recognises the ability of the production industry to still produce creative, effective advertising content, albeit with constrained crafting. To jumpstart this current ‘Lockdown Category’ I feel that Robin Goode’s ‘Miss’ and Monde like the world’s ‘Life and Soul’ have both managed to deliver engaging and meaningful messages to the nation under these trying circumstances. They are engaging, thought-provoking and most importantly, optimistic.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Greg Gray, Director at Romance Films

Best in Craft (Direction Craft): March 2020
Figment Films | Gregg Bailey
SportsHosts ‘United by Sports’

“The performances where very convincing and timing and pace of the edit left us just enough clues as the story resolved. With advertising, we still need to make the product somehow relevant to the concept, and I believe Greg and Anthony achieved this well without ramming it down our throats. Well done guys. Simple and effective.”
– IDIDTHAT Guest Judge: Ricky Boyd, Film Editor at Deliverance Post

IDIDTHAT Guest Judges 2020

Thank you to all these judges for awarding the best in South African Production Craft for 2020! Just look at these headshots – judges today, runway models tomorrow!

January 2020 Craft Awards – View

Roanna Williams, ECD at Black River FC at the time (now Net#work BBDO)

February 2020 Craft Awards – View

Kabelo Moshapalo, ECD at TBWA Hunt Lascaris
Marc Algranti, Executive Producer and Music Supervisor at Pulse Music

March 2020 Craft Awards – View

Suhana Gordhan, ECD at FCB Joburg at the time (now ECD at Duke Group)
Ricky Boyd, Film Editor at Deliverance Post

April 2020 Craft Awards – View

Jake Bester. Creative Partner / ECD at M&C Saatchi Abel
Greg Gray, Director at Romance Films

May 2020 Craft Awards – View

Molefi Thulo, ECD of Ogilvy Joburg
Karien Cherry, director at Giant Films

June 2020 Craft AwardsView
Sibusiso Sitole, CCO and co-founder of The Odd Number
Evy Katz, Editor at Left Post Production

July 2020 Craft Awards – View

Bridget Johnson, ECD at The Riverbed Agency
Dani Hynes, director and Founder at Made Films

August 2020 Craft Awards – View

Tseliso Rangaka, CCO of FCB Joburg and HelloFCB
Louis Enslin, Owner of Produce Sound

September 2020 Craft Awards – View

Fran Luckin, CCO of Grey Africa
Ernest Nkosi, director at Bomb Commercials

October 2020 Craft Awards – View

Grant Sithole, ECD of FoxP2
Cindy Lee, director at The Star Film Company

November 2020 Craft Awards – View

Stephanie Symonds, Creative Director of Saatchi & Saatchi
Lebogang Rasethaba, director at Egg Films & Arcade Content

December 2020 Craft Awards – View

Claudi Potter, Creative Director at Joe Public United
Fausto Becatti, director at Bioscope Films

If you would like your craft judged each month, by incredibly talented and sexy humans, sign up here and have your work shared with the industry.