Namibian film ‘Bokwagter’ made its debut last night on kykNet & Kie on DStv channel 145 and GOtv channel 4, as well as Showmax, under the theme, ‘Namibia to the World’. 

The groundbreaking film was produced as part of the Mukorob project – an initiative between MultiChoice Namibia and the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). 

‘Bokwagter’ found its roots through the creative vision of Michael Swartbooi and brilliantly blends rural culture with martial arts, comedy and youthful energy, a concoction that has never been captured on screen before. 

Dantagos Jimmy-Melani, the executive producer of Ndapunikwa Films, shared her passion for the project, saying, “We thought it was very authentic and symbolic of a Namibian farm experience that many people can relate to but that has never been captured on film before”.

The production process was a mammoth task that involved coordinating with stunt coordinators, children, farm animals, remote locations and an extensive cast and crew. 

Despite the challenges, Jimmy-Melani expressed her satisfaction with the creative outcomes: “We were very satisfied with the results of the creative efforts and hard work of the entire team”.

The heart of ‘Bokwagter’ lies in its collaborative spirit. The film’s initial concept by Swartbooi, script by Whitney Ndongo (who also directed the film), the contributions of line producer Ellen Ernst and the entire production team ensured a seamless journey from idea to execution. 

Jimmy-Melani emphasised, “Our company takes a very unorthodox and collaborative approach to filmmaking, so all members of the production team had extensive input on the creative work in all aspects of the development and production phases. This collaboration culminates into what audiences experience and hopefully enjoy on screen from Ndapunikwa Films”.

‘Bokwagter’ is poised to stand out in Namibia’s film landscape due to its family-friendly humour, martial arts action sequences and celebration of rural culture. 

“It is a film that can be enjoyed by a broad range of audiences and also celebrates Namibia’s rural and farming culture.”

One of the most memorable aspects of the film was working with young talents, who excelled in both acting and martial arts. The quartet of young leads, including William Dias, Tangi Nepolo, Mathew Haipare and Megameno Shanika, brought their A-game to the project, impressing everyone involved.

Casting for ‘Bokwagter’ was an intensive process that involved assessing both fighting skills and acting abilities. Jimmy-Melani explained.

‘Bokwagter’ aims to take audiences on an entertaining journey through Namibia’s captivating landscapes while providing a glimpse into its rich culture. 

Jimmy-Melani said she hopes it will leave audiences wanting to see more of what Namibian filmmakers can offer.

For those curious about future projects from Ndapunikwa Films, exciting endeavours await. The company is currently involved in a range of projects, including a feature documentary about the San People of Namibia, an international co-production for a six-part political drama and several local feature films. 

Ndapunikwa Films is also the creative force behind the film, ‘Blackened’, which is currently streaming on Showmax.

Photo: Bokwagter

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