Africiné: Where does the idea of Izulu Lami come from?

Madode Nicayana : As I used to say, this idea originates from the fact that I stay in the countryside and witness what is happening there everyday. Unfortunately, many children grow up in bad conditions. They try to survive by overcoming the numerous obstacles they encounter. Nobody cares and we are getting used to this terrible situation. They can only rely upon themselves for crucial decisions. In South Africa and more specifically in townships, everyday life is hard. Through this movie, I guess that these problems can be seriously broached upon and bring about changes. Children are actually vulnerable and need more care. For me, this movie represents a hope and I compare children to some trees which are growing and will be useful for the whole society. Therefore, they need more attention, care and help. Moreover, young people are more prone to watch movies from overseas, especially from USA. My aim was to make something useful which can keep them focused on their life and personal history, make them see certain shootings, incite them to have a clearer vision of their own reality.
In a word, I would like to bring to light these socio-economic problems and make an appeal to concerned authorities.

How did you feel when your film was scheduled to launch this international festival?

It's quite wonderful. First of all, I am very happy for these children who act in this movie. It's for them a great occasion to check whether or not they do wrong things. I'm also highly accredited and it gave me and the children a worldwide audience. And the way that this movie is welcomed is a great thing for the children, as it encourages them to go ahead. This will stay in my mind the rest of my life and the children's.

Why most of the time, do you choose to work with children?

Children are pure; innocent and obedient. They love working and when they want to do things, they do it in a serious way. While adults tell what to do; children just take and do. They are more sincere, honest and dedicated. When they don't appreciate this or that, they'll automatically let it know. Children represent a big hope for African cinema which will go a long way with them. The sky I'm talking about is also about them.

The title of your first movie contains the word "Sky". This one also has the same word. Tell us what "Sky" represent for you?

"Sky" helps people to think who they are and take up. "Sky" is simply the life and everything which we are living for. It's hope and we cannot live without it. It's very important and no one wants to share it with other people.

If you were to reconsider certain aspects of your movie; what would you change?

Honestly, I can say that more movements will be fine for this film and especially some travelling and some panoramic. I think it will make it more beautiful with better quality of filmmaking techniques. Life is a permanent school as we are always learning new things. With a limited budget for this film, I was not able to do everything I would have liked to. It has taken me five years to finish this movie as a result of a lack of money. But that doesn't have an impact upon the fundamental message of the film. This movie has been already awarded by 4 prizes in Europe.

Espera Donouvossi