Bokwagter shines light on rural culture, martial arts
The vibrant and diverse landscape of Namibian cinema takes centre stage as Ndapunikwa Films presents Bokwagter – a groundbreaking film produced as part of the Mukorob project, which is an initiative between MultiChoice Namibia and the NBC.This delightful cinematic journey promises to be a unique experience for audiences of all ages.
Inspired by the authentic Namibian farm experience, Bokwagter found its roots through the creative vision of Michael Swartbooi. The film brilliantly blends rural culture with martial arts, comedy, and youthful energy, a concoction that has never been captured on screen before.
Producer Dantagos Jimmy-Melani shared her passion for the project, saying, “We thought it was authentic and symbolic of a Namibian farm experience that many people can relate to but that has never been captured on film before”.
The production process was a mammoth task that involved coordinating with stunt coordinators, children, farm animals, remote locations, and an extensive cast and crew. Despite the challenges, Jimmy-Melani expressed her satisfaction with the creative outcomes.
The heart of Bokwagter lies in its collaborative spirit. The film’s initial concept by Michael Swartbooi, script by Whitney Ndongo (who also directed the film), the contributions of line producer, Ellen Ernst, and the entire production team ensured a seamless journey from idea to execution.
Family-friendly humour
Bokwagter is poised to stand out in Namibia's film landscape due to its family-friendly humour, martial arts action sequences, and celebration of rural culture. As Jimmy-Melani puts it, “it is a film that can be enjoyed by a broad range of audiences and also celebrates Namibia's rural and farming culture”.
One of the most memorable aspects of the film was working with young talents who excelled in both acting and martial arts. The quartet of young leads, William Dias, Tangi Nepolo, Mathew Haipare, and Megameno Shanika, brought their A-game to the project, impressing everyone involved.
Casting for Bokwagter was an intensive process that involved assessing both fighting skills and acting abilities. Melani explained, “The candidates also had to demonstrate acting talent to carry the dramatic scenes”.
For those curious about future projects from Ndapunikwa Films, exciting endeavours await. The company is currently involved in a variety of projects, including a feature documentary about the San people of Namibia, an international co-production for a six-part political drama, and several local feature films.
Ndapunikwa Films is also the creative force behind the film Blackened currently streaming on Showmax.
Bokwagter is released on Sunday, 10 September at 20:00 on Kyknet & Kie DStv channel 145 and GOtv channel 4, as well as Showmax under the row Namibia to the World.