Speaking on the development of Suidooster, M-Net Director for Afrikaans Channels Karen Meiring says, “Binnelanders and Villa Rosa, our two popular kykNET soaps, were film in Gauteng – it is time we expand our production footprint nationally. Suidooster allows us to do this, while still delivering a compelling story for our viewers. Even though the show calls the Western Cape home, its storylines are universal – we look forward to sharing this story with Afrikaans viewers throughout South Africa.”
Suidooster will be produced for kykNET by Gambit Films, reaffirming M-Net’s commitment to the transformation of the TV industry, in terms of promoting and supporting producers from previously disadvantaged communities.
Gambit has proven itself a force to be reckoned with, thanks to a tried and tested skill for scripting and shooting within the drama genre. Their short film Number 37 received critical acclaim at the kykNETSilwerskermfees and they were also instrumental in producing the 20 Ons Stories films that aired on kykNET & Kie in 2014.
“It is a tremendous honour to be tasked with creating a brand new soapie for kykNET and is a great acknowledgement that our hard work is paying off. Over recent years M-Net has played an integral part in our development journey by affording us valuable opportunities to showcase our work,” says Gambit director Travis Taute. “All those steps have led to this moment, and we’re determined to deliver on the confidence that M-Net has placed in us. We’re focussed on ensuring that Suidooster becomes must-watch Afrikaans TV entertainment.”
Meiring also thanked Homebrew Films for their role in mentoring the team at Gambit: “M-Net is delighted that this partnership – which we actively supported, encouraged and nurtured for several years – has led to the birth of a series that’s expected to become a highlight on our schedule. We are passionate about developing capacity in the industry and the kykNET Silwerskermfees has been instrumental in achieving this.”