South Africa’s big-screen scene is about to get a jolt of raw authenticity with Ou Ses: Elke Move Tel — the latest short film from writer, actor and filmmaker Enrico Hartzenberg from Sarepta, Kuils River.
The film introduces two new actors, Wayde Solomons (21) and Yulbritte Smith (33), whose performances bring a fresh dimension to a story that blends grit, heart and humanity.
“Forget the usual crime stories,” said Hartzenberg, founder of Hartzenberg Films. “Ou Ses tells a story of courage, legacy and the redemptive power of love.”
I wanted to show that there’s so much more to our communities than the headlines — there’s resilience, laughter and dreams that refuse to die.
The film will premiere nationwide on Thursday 27 November and Friday 28 November as part of the “Heart & Hustle Anthology” alongside three other Hartzenberg Film short films at selected Ster-Kinekor cinemas.
Hartzenberg described the agreement with Ster-Kinekor as a landmark collaboration and one of his most ambitious undertakings yet — much more than a personal milestone.
“This exhibition agreement isn’t just a win for Ou Ses: Elke Move Tel or ‘Heart & Hustle’,” he said. “It’s a powerful affirmation that our stories – urgent, emotional, and deeply rooted in the South African experience – deserve to be seen on the big screen.”
Lynne Wylie, chief marketing officer of Ster-Kinekor, said they are thrilled to support emerging talent. “Screening local films in cinema is vital to keep the culture of cinema-going alive in South Africa. We’re proud to play a role in showcasing stories that reflect the richness and complexity of our communities.”
Rising stars
Ou Ses marks an important breakthrough for both Solomons and Smith.
Solomons, a young actor, voice-over artist, and broadcaster from Eerste River, already has early credits on Skemergrond, Suidooster, Wyfie and Coby Phoenix Rise. The 21-year-old said joining Ou Ses felt “like stepping into my purpose”.
Smith, a performer from Belhar’s Chestnut Place, turned personal setbacks into fuel for her craft.
After a dance injury paused her career, she completed a master’s-level theatre programme at Jacomus, actor Dann-Jacques Mouton’s drama school.
Soon after, Hartzenberg invited her to join Ou Ses without an audition. “After years of trying, this felt like God making a way,” said Smith.
To Hartzenberg Films, Ou Ses isn’t just a short film, it’s a statement.
“By investing in under-represented and emerging voices, Hartzenberg Films wants to expand the lens of South African storytelling and make space for new perspectives,” said Hartzenberg.
I’m thrilled to give audiences a fresh perspective on our stories, and even more excited to showcase the raw talent bubbling up from our communities.
Set on the Cape Flats, the film follows Charles, a man returning home after serving time for a crime he didn’t commit — only to find his family home taken over by the very man who betrayed him.
Rise above
The “Heart & Hustle Anthology” also includes the screening of: Sister Dinges — a grief-fuelled revenge story told through a queer lens; After Quiet — a reflective exploration of silence, memory, and healing; and Mr. Isaacs — a powerful narrative examining masculinity and generational trauma.
Collectively, the films embody the dual spirit of “Heart & Hustle”. “Heart reflects the emotional depth and humanity that ground each story,” said Hartzenberg, “while hustle shows the resilience, drive, and determination to rise above adversity.”
The anthology will be screened at selected Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide from Thursday 27 November until Sunday 7 December. Hartzenberg will host meet-and-greet sessions at the screening at the V&A Waterfront on 27 November, Baywest Mall (Gqeberha) on 30 November, Garden Route Mall (George) on 2 December, and at Rosebank Nouveau on 4 December.
Book at www.sterkinekor.com or the SK App. Call Ticketline on 086 166 8437 for queries.
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