logo
What's new at Nu Metro cinemas, a feast of films at Durban festival, and a hook-handed stalker is back

What's new at Nu Metro cinemas, a feast of films at Durban festival, and a hook-handed stalker is back

TimesLIVE6 days ago
Spotlight is our bite-sized entertainment snapshot featuring new releases in South Africa, exclusive film trailers and more. New episodes come out every Thursday on Sunday Times Lifestyle, Sowetan Entertainment and YouTube, plus you can follow Spotlight on Facebook.
This week Spotlight shines a light on industry news, including the 46th Durban International Film Festival, splendid developments and offers for all film lovers at Nu Metro cinemas. It also takes a peek at the remake of a slasher favourite.
Cinema lovers can look forward to extraordinary developments at Nu Metro cinemas, including 270° wraparound screens with sound quality to deliver top immersive movie experiences. Mini Bounce play areas are on the cards for Kidz cinemas, and premium screen formats and a wide range of partners will ensure more affordable cinema visits, more often.
A jam-packed film festival is awaiting African and international film enthusiasts and industry professionals from July 17 to 27 in Durban. Filled with premieres, masterclasses, Q&A sessions and workshops centred on the world of storytelling, a record number of attendees are expected at this year's 46th Durban International Film Festival. Look out for groundbreaking local films such as Lucky Fish, Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight and many more.
Get ready for a modern take on the popular throwback thriller I Know What You Did Last Summer, delivering new chills for the legacy slasher remake. Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, the film sees returning cast members Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jnr with new faces including Madelyn Cline and Nicholas Alexander Chavez. Five friends, one deadly secret and a hook-handed stalker who knows exactly what they did last summer. Time to head to cinemas.
For full interviews, breaking news, trailers and clips visit our Spotlight Facebook page. See you at the movies.
Presenter Collette Prince is styled and dressed by Claris by Gerrit Pienaar when attending premieres and special events.
Facebook @Claris by Gerrit Pienaar/Instagram: gerritpienaardesigns.
Competition and giveaways
Send us your favourite Nu Metro cinema name and stand a chance to win a double VIP Nu Metro cinema voucher.
For full competition details and the questions, go to the Spotlight SA Facebook page and DM your answers and contact details by July 23.
Terms and conditions apply.
Winners will be drawn randomly and notified by SMS after the competition has closed. Entrants' personal details will not be retained for marketing purposes. Winners have to provide proof of age (ID/driving licence) and cover their own travel and accommodation expenses. By entering, participants agree to have their names published on TimesLIVE, SowetanLIVE and Spotlight SA on Facebook. Employees of Ar ena Holdings and their family members are not eligible to enter.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

BET, MTV Africa and other Paramount channels may shut down
BET, MTV Africa and other Paramount channels may shut down

The Citizen

time3 hours ago

  • The Citizen

BET, MTV Africa and other Paramount channels may shut down

Paramount Global is reportedly considering closing offices and channels in Africa. Paramount Global may reportedly shut down its Africa offices as part of a broader review of its international operations. Paramount's African portfolio includes channels such as MTV, MTV Base, BET, and Comedy Central with headquarters in Johannesburg and Nigeria. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Paramount is shifting focus toward its growing streaming platforms and core global content, responding to changing viewer behaviour and ongoing economic pressures. As part of this restructuring, the company is reassessing its international pay-TV business and may scale down its traditional cable channels. Paramount reportedly said it will focus on regions with the strongest potential for revenue growth. ALSO READ: Another year, another decline in DStv subscribers: Will Canal+ be buying a shell? Paramount local teams may be affected by the changes In a memo reportedly sent to staff, Paramount Africa executives Monde Twala and Craig Paterson acknowledged that the changes may affect local teams. 'We are at a point in our journey where we are facing immense industry disruption. Our team is not immune to potential changes as our organisation evaluates its pay-TV strategy and local channel footprint here in Africa,' the memo reads. 'We understand the coming weeks may be tough and feel unsettling. Through it all, please know your efforts are valued beyond measure,' it continues, as quoted by The Hollywood Reporter. NOW READ: Nonku clarifies fallout with Jojo: 'My statement was taken out of context'

The music imbizo is making a comeback
The music imbizo is making a comeback

IOL News

time4 hours ago

  • IOL News

The music imbizo is making a comeback

Independent Media, one of the largest media houses in Southern Africa, joins as a key editorial partner, ensuring The Music Imbizo 2025 receives strong national exposure across digital, print, and broadcast platforms. Their coverage will include speaker features, opinion pieces, and real-time updates throughout the event. Image: Supplied The Music Imbizo 2025 returns to the Durban ICC from 26–30 August, under the theme 'At the Root of Innovation is Culture, Creativity and the Power of IP', and today reveals its dynamic roster of keynote speakers, backed by a powerful coalition of strategic sponsors and partners committed to advancing Africa's creative economy. Opening the conference with an authoritative government perspective, Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Bertha Peace Mabe, will deliver the first keynote. Mabe, a seasoned Member of Parliament since 2009 and appointed Deputy Minister in July 2024, holds BA and Honours degrees in Public Administration from the University of Pretoria. Her address will examine national strategies that strengthen cultural industries and leverage intellectual property for economic development. On Wednesday, Nomfundo Xaluva-Dyantyis, a multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer, and academic, will lead a keynote dialogue with Vuyisile Mshudulu of the City of Johannesburg. Holding a Master's in Jazz from UCT and an EMBA from Henley Business School, Xaluva lectures at UCT and has released two acclaimed albums under Universal Music. Her keynote will offer insight into the role of culture and innovation in shaping artistic and business futures. Thursday features a continental perspective with Brahim El Maned, Director of Visa for Music in Morocco, speaking on 'Language as a Tool for Preserving Culture.' Known for his work in African music diplomacy, El Maned will explore the role of language and music in preserving identity and enabling cultural exchange. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Friday's closing keynote belongs to Ntsika Tyatya, Creative Director of MaXhosa Africa, who will deliver a compelling session titled 'Cultural Innovation: The Future of African Creativity.' Tyatya will discuss the intersection of fashion, music, and design as tools to elevate African narratives and protect intellectual property on a global scale. This year, SABC 1 powers The Music Imbizo 2025, bringing one of South Africa's most influential media platforms to the heart of the conference. With its unrivalled reach across youth and emerging creative markets, SABC 1 will amplify the event's message through broadcast, digital storytelling, and coverage that extends far beyond the venue. Durban Tourism returns as the official sponsor, reaffirming the city's position as a continental hub for cultural dialogue and economic development through the arts. Their longstanding support underscores Durban's strategic investment in music, tourism, and the broader creative industries. Independent Media, one of the largest media houses in Southern Africa, joins as a key editorial partner, ensuring The Music Imbizo 2025 receives strong national exposure across digital, print, and broadcast platforms. Their coverage will include speaker features, opinion pieces, and real-time updates throughout the event. The Music Imbizo 2025 is also proud to welcome Brand South Africa as a strategic content partner. As South Africa leads the G20 Presidency, Brand South Africa will profile its acclaimed G20 campaign at strategic moments during the conference, including high-visibility AV placements. A curated panel discussion featuring the Brand South Africa CEO will explore how film serves as a catalyst for nation branding and economic growth, positioned within The Music Imbizo's Music-Focused Film Festival. Additional partners include CAPASSO, SAMRO, TikTok, Bathu, and NoOx Worldwide (Italy) — each contributing valuable insights and activation support in rights management, creator monetisation, digital engagement, brand building, and international collaboration. Over five days, The Music Imbizo 2025 will host over 60 speakers, 25 artists, 60 exhibitors, curated film screenings, workshops, speed meetings, and competitions such as the Beat Battle, Hackathon, Moot Court, Film Scoring Challenge, and Dance Music Showcase. Tickets are available online via Webtickets and at Pick n Pay outlets nationwide. The Music Imbizo The Music Imbizo is one of the most important music business gatherings on the continent, held annually in Durban, South Africa. Established in 2009, the conference brings together musicians, industry professionals, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the continent and the globe. With a strong focus on education, collaboration, and innovation, The Music Imbizo provides a platform for dialogue on critical issues such as intellectual property, artist development, technology, and the future of the African music industry. Through keynote sessions, workshops, showcases, film screenings, and networking opportunities, The Music Imbizo empowers creatives and drives the growth of the cultural economy in Africa. SABC 1 SABC 1 is South Africa's leading free-to-air television channel, renowned for its dynamic, youth-focused programming. As part of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the channel plays a vital role in shaping pop culture, amplifying local voices, and promoting homegrown music and talent. SABC 1 has a strong national reach and continues to serve as a key platform for social discourse, entertainment, and creative development. Durban Tourism Durban Tourism is the official destination marketing arm of the eThekwini Municipality. With a focus on promoting Durban as a vibrant hub for business and leisure, Durban Tourism actively supports initiatives that drive cultural tourism, creative industries, and international engagement. Through strategic partnerships and event sponsorships, it positions Durban as one of Africa's top destinations for arts, culture, and entertainment. Brand South Africa Brand South Africa is the official marketing agency of the South African government, tasked with building and managing the country's national reputation. Established in 2002, the agency promotes South Africa as a globally competitive destination for investment, tourism, and trade, while fostering national pride and social cohesion domestically. Through strategic campaigns, partnerships, and thought leadership, Brand South Africa works to shape a compelling narrative that reflects the nation's values, potential, and innovation. Its mission is to position South Africa as a leading African nation and a key global player — particularly during milestone moments such as the country's 2025 G20 Presidency. CAPASSO The Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO) is a mechanical rights licensing agency based in South Africa. It ensures that music creators are paid royalties when their work is reproduced digitally or physically. CAPASSO plays a critical role in supporting the rights and livelihoods of composers and publishers in the fast-evolving digital music ecosystem, especially across streaming platforms and digital downloads. SAMRO The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) is a collective management organisation that licenses music use and ensures the fair payment of royalties to composers, authors, and publishers. With decades of experience, SAMRO protects intellectual property rights and advocates for a thriving and equitable music industry in South Africa and beyond. Bathu Bathu is a proudly South African sneaker brand that celebrates township culture, entrepreneurship, and African identity. Founded by Theo Baloyi, Bathu has grown into one of the continent's most recognised lifestyle brands. With a mission to inspire and empower, Bathu blends design innovation with local storytelling, making it a cultural icon in South Africa's fashion and youth scenes. NoOx Worldwide (Italy) NoOx Worldwide is an Italy-based cultural agency specialising in Afro-European artistic collaboration and global creative exchange. With a focus on music, festivals, and cross-cultural programming, NoOx connects African artists with European audiences and platforms. The agency actively supports initiatives that elevate African voices and promote intercultural dialogue through the arts.

Tyla lights up Barbados at Tipsy Festival
Tyla lights up Barbados at Tipsy Festival

The South African

time6 hours ago

  • The South African

Tyla lights up Barbados at Tipsy Festival

Tyla added another spectacular chapter to her meteoric rise by headlining the Tipsy Music Festival (TMF) in Barbados. It was a moment of African pride, as she brought her distinct blend of Amapiano, R&B, and pop to Caribbean shores. Tyla's career needs no introduction to South Africans. Her triple-platinum hit Water dominated charts worldwide. In 2024, she made history by winning her first GRAMMY for Best African Music Performance. She then continued to collect accolades with nominations at major award shows. This included the BET Awards and the MTV Video Music Awards. At TMF 2025, Tyla's star power was on full display. Organisers themselves recognised the significance. 'We are proud to welcome Tyla to the TMF stage for the very first time. She is one of the most exciting global voices of this generation. She's a trailblazer whose artistry and cultural relevance make her a perfect match for the Caribbean's most dynamic summer festival,' said organiser Zamani Moodie, according to Emo News . Sunday, 20 July, saw Tyla headline the TMF All White Experience, sharing the bill with Caribbean legends such as Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin, and Fay-Ann Lyons. Festivalgoers dressed in stylish white outfits filled the venue. Tyla's set was both high energy and deeply personal. She delivered fan favourites from her self-titled album as well as her new single, IS IT . Crowds responded with enthusiasm, singing and dancing along. 'Barbados felt like home,' Tyla said after her performance. 'Sharing Amapiano and my story with a new audience was magical. The support from both locals and my fellow South Africans was incredible.' Tyla's appearance bridged continents, blending South African vibrancy with Caribbean rhythm. The result? Unforgettable moments for fans and a new benchmark for festival performances in the Caribbean. As she told the crowd, 'Wherever I go, I carry South Africa with me. Tonight, Barbados felt just like home.' Tyla's journey continues, and South Africans will be right there with her every step of the way. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store