After a captivating audition and rehearsal, a dream came true for Ann Benjamin from Elsies River, Margaret Gertse from Bellville South, and Wendy Fredericks from Eerste River, who were cast in the seven-part crime-action short film series Uncle Billy written by Norman Diedricks. The series tells the story of a high-school caretaker known as Uncle Billy, who uses extreme measures to rid the community of a gang of violent criminals, restoring peace and order. Despite his deeds Uncle Billy remains the unsuspected lone vigilante.
“Stepping out of my comfort zone playing the character Stienie, I became captivated by my character’s strong presence and her boldness in controlling her environmen,” said Benjamin. “Playing a character who is strong, decisive and righteous, I resonate with her, especially her resilience.”
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The 48-year-old actress from Elsies River also dreams of creating opportunities for women in her community through education and the performing arts, helping them build stable careers for a secure future.
Fight training
The trio underwent extensive fight training and choreography, which was the highlight of their rehearsal with stuntman Ben Wafula.
“I could never have envisioned myself overpowering a strong man, flipping him over a table, and breaking chairs,” stated Gertse, who plays Claw. “Even though it’s all staged the excitement is incredibly genuine, and I’m overflowing with adrenaline. Training for an action movie is more than just acting; it requires a substantial physical dedication to martial arts.”
“Entering the rehearsal space I saw a stuntman flying through the air and landing on his back, seemingly vanquished by the ladies,” said Fredericks. “It soon became apparent it was just a rehearsal. I’m excited to be part of this project; as an actress, moving into action films is a considerable challenge.”
The seven-part short-film series will see episode 1 entitled “Uncle Billy: The Claw, The Cat and The Whiteman”, being released on 25 September on the Touched By Style Youtube channel. Episode 2, entitled “Uncle Billy in the Valley of Long Gone”, will be released on 25 October.
- For more information please send an email to touchedbystyle21@gmail.com
