MediaSync is bringing festive cheer to Showmax this December with Christmas Clothes, a heartwarming comedy set in Soweto on Christmas Eve. The film follows Nqubeko, a teenager played by Omhle Tshabalala (Scandal!), on a mission to recover his stolen Christmas outfit from a local bully, Mzukulu, portrayed by 12-year-old Tshepo Mohale.
The cast also includes Mpumelelo Magaga and Alex Tivani as Benny and Small, alongside SAFTA winner Thami Mngqolo (Generations, Isono, Muvhango) and Khanya Sosibo (Generations: The Legacy, The Estate) as Nqubeko’s parents.
Director Athi Petela (M’tase Khaya, Thato Ya Modimo, Lingashoni) highlights the film’s cultural resonance. “Christmas clothes have been a long-standing tradition for South Africans,” Petela explains. “This film is full of nostalgia. It’s about love, laughter, and community—truly a movie for everyone.”
For Tshepo Mohale, being cast as Mzukulu was an unforgettable experience. “When I found out I got the role, I was overjoyed—it felt like an early Christmas gift,” he says. “It was my first time shooting a film, and the experience was incredible. The director and producers made me feel so special, like I was a VIP.”
Unlike typical snowy Christmas tales, Christmas Clothes embraces the essence of a South African festive season. For Omhle Tshabalala, it’s the people who make it special. “Christmas is all about family—bonding, spending time together, and creating memories,” he says.
Beyond the humor and nostalgia, the young cast hopes the film’s messages resonate with viewers.
“Don’t bully others,” says Tshepo. “Be kind and don’t let friends influence you to do wrong.”
“Be a good friend like Nqubeko,” adds Omhle. “Stand up to bullies for your friends if they’re too scared to.”
Alex Tivani advises, “Stay calm, kind, and true to yourself.”
Mpumelelo Magaga emphasizes the power of friendship and inclusion. “True friendship can overcome anything if you stick together. Inclusion is important because, despite our differences, we all share the same humanity. It’s vital to listen to and understand each other’s stories without judgment.”
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• Christmas Clothes premieres on Showmax on Friday, 6 December 2024
• Directed by Athi Petela (M’tase Khaya, Thato Ya Modimo, Lingashoni)
