Johannesburg – The Ergo Company has announced that “Old Righteous Blues” is still in the running for South Africa’s official entry in the Best International Feature Film category for the 97th Academy Awards.

The Academy Awards jury is set to unveil the shortlisted films on December 17th, which will move forward in the awards season.

“As South Africa prepares to host the G20 Summit in 2025, we take immense pride in our film, ‘Old Righteous Blues,’ being chosen to represent the country as the official contender for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.

‘Old Righteous Blues’ is directed by Muneera Sallies.

This milestone showcases the thriving film industry in South Africa and its capacity to produce world-class narratives that resonate internationally.

“As we get ready to welcome global leaders for the G20 Summit, we are excited to highlight our unique cultural heritage and artistic talent,” commented Muneera Sallies, the film’s director.

“The success of this film underscores the essential role of cultural diplomacy in fostering social unity, economic growth, and international collaboration.

“We look forward to sharing ‘Old Righteous Blues’ with a global audience while hosting international leaders in South Africa for the G20 Summit in 2025.”

‘Old Righteous Blues’ is a poignant drama exploring themes of identity, love, community, and redemption set in a quaint South African town.

The story unfolds within the backdrop of a long-standing tradition of brass bands in the Robertson, Worcester district of the Western Cape.

This area is dotted with orchards and wine estates.

During the harvest season, bands with up to a hundred members gather for practice and competition.

While Christmas celebrations are central, contests continue until February. Amid this vibrant working-class atmosphere, a modern-day Romeo and Juliet story unfolds, depicting a secret romance between characters from competing bands.

Deep-rooted scars from past betrayals threaten the community’s fabric.

The film features an impressive ensemble cast and showcases the vibrant cultural tapestry of the nation.

With a brilliant script by acclaimed Carol Shore (Muvhango), ‘Old Righteous Blues’ has captivated audiences since its premiere at the Silwerskerm Fees. The production team has transformed the narrative into a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.

Carol found outstanding producers in Cati Weinek (The Fragile King, The Letter Reader) and Dumi Gumbi (Headspace, Mrs Right Guy).

With a track record of successful films such as Mrs Right Guy, the SAFTAs award-winner for Best Screenwriting and Best Actor – Freedom (best script by Jafta Mamabolo); The Tokoloshe (Jerome Pikwane); and Headspace – the highest-grossing film in SA in 2023 – (directed by Gerhard Painter and Paul Meyer); and the recent five-time SAFTA award-winning The Fragile King (directed and written by Tristan Holmes), The Ergo Company is well-equipped to bring this compelling script to life.

Starring Aydan Croy (Suidooster, Arendsvlei), Joshwin Dyson (Arendsvlei), Simon Bruinders (7de Laan, Getroud Met Rugby), Meg Saayman (Arendsvlei), and Kevin Smith (Backstage, Isidingo), the film features a crew that has previously not had the opportunity to lead their departments on international productions.

This dedicated team spent six weeks in the rural Robertson Bo-dorp, culminating in a textured, authentically crafted film that moved audiences to tears during its launch at the Silwerskerm Fees in 2023.

The nominees for the Best International Feature Film category will be announced on January 17, 2025, with the 97th Academy Awards scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

‘Old Righteous Blues’ received funding from the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), KykNet Films, Indigenous Film Distribution, and distribution support from The Ergo Company’s subsidiary – Ergo Distro International.

The National Film and Video Foundation plays a crucial role in nurturing the local film industry, ensuring South Africa’s presence at the Oscars.

‘Old Righteous Blues’ is currently available for streaming on DSTV Box Office.