The film festival debuts the story of the first Black Rugby captain in the nation’s history.
Premiering at the Village East by Angelika, the festival debuted an international story, Rise: The Story of Siya Kolisi. The film follows his life from young to adulthood into becoming a professional Rugby player. Apart from hearing from the Rugby star, many testified to his greatness throughout the film, including his family, close friends, and teammates. The documentary is a story of survival, determination, perseverance, and success. “It’s truly inspiring,” said Roc Nation Sports International President Michael Yormark. “It’s not a sports film… it’s a film about overcoming challenges and achieving greatness.”
Rachel Kolisi, the wife of the Rugby star, hopes the film can showcase her husband as an incredible, vulnerable man, not just an athlete. Other attendees, producer Jon Day and director Tebogo Malope, both shared that displaying South African culture within the documentary was crucial. “We’re all South African and want to showcase it at all times,” said Jon Day. “When you watch the film, you’ll notice that I parallel the growth of South African democracy to his growth,” Tebogo Malope says.
After the screening, an after-party took place at Virgo New York with an elite South African DJ line-up: Senai, AQ, and Bad Company curating sounds, especially the thrilling dance sounds of Amapiano. DJ Senai arrived at the scene blasting the addicting track “Mnike” teasing what guests would expect for the night. It has even caught the attention of Tebogo and carpet guests. “That’s Amapiano!” Tebogo said in excitement. The after-party also included a performance by renowned Amapiano musician Musa Keys.
South African culture was indeed present in NYC!
Learn more cultural insights from the lovely cast in the rest of our interviews linked above!
Tribeca “At Home” passes to view Rise is available here at tribecafilm.com.