Tongayi Chirisa in top SA production Tongai Chirisa
Tongai Chirisa

Tongai Chirisa

Showbiz Reporter
PRODUCTION of a promising South African movie: Happiness Is A Four-Letter Word, which features Zimbabwe’s Tongayi Chirisa, is complete with the premiere set for February 19.
The movie, an adaptation from a book written by South African female author Nozizwe Cynthia Jele, showcases some of the most talented names on the African entertainment industry including Khanyi Mbau, Chris Attoh and Mmabatho Montsho.

Happiness Is A Four-Letter Word follows the lives of three black women living out their dreams. Montsho plays Nandi, a lawyer and compulsive perfectionist while Mbau plays Zaza, a go-getter who lives the high life as a trophy wife. Another top South African actress, Renate Stuurman plays the role of Princess, a trend-setting art gallery owner. Though all three women support each other and have everything one could ask for, they learn that happiness runs deeper than just accumulation of material possessions.

The movie has a strong male presence, with Chirisa – popular for his role on Mr Bones and Jacob’s Cross star, Hlomla Dandala. Chirisa plays the role of Thomas, fiancé to Nandi. Talented Ghanaian Tinsel star Chris Attoh portrays his namesake Chris. Simo Magwaza is Bheki, Zaza’s inattentive husband and Richard Lukunku, best known for his role as Pascal in Inkaba, is Princess’ new “mysterious” lover.

The production is directed by Thabang Moleya, who has an extensive show reel in the drama genre team. An eye catching and captivating trailer of the movie which was released recently leaves one eager to watch the whole production.

Mbau, a well known socialite who is best known for hosting Katch It With Khanyi on etv said: “Audiences can expect international values in terms of production value, the pictures, the quality, and even the writing. This is the first of its kind to compete with international movies such as Why Did I Get Married 1 and 2 . A Think Like a Man kind of a film,” Khanyi told Sowetan Live.

In a statement, Jele, said: “The movie features strong female leads, an exciting development in the local film industry. It’s hilarious, sometimes sad, a true reflection of life. But the ‘girls’ never give up on trying to find happiness.

“The novel received tremendous support and still gets attention. I’m also excited about the developing trend of local books being turned into films and television dramas. The content and depth of South African writers is relevant and of a high calibre. I can’t wait to see the final product.”

Jele’s novel was awarded the 2011 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize: Best First Book, and the 2011 M-Net Literary Award.

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