Watch trailer: Local film fanatic makes it big in the movie world
This former Hoërskool Kempton Park learner started her career as a wardrobe and makeup artist for locally esteemed soapies
Kempton Park born and bred Tascha van der Westhuizen is making a big name for herself in the South African and international film industry. But, unlike her childhood dream to become an actress, she is catching the limelight behind the scenes.
This former Hoërskool Kempton Park learner started her career as a wardrobe and makeup artist for locally esteemed soapies Egoli and 7de Laan, before starting production work with hospital soap Binnelanders.
Then she spread her wings to her dream job. That of a line producer. Since this career move, she has worked on movies such as Die Ek Anna, Susters and most recently Nommer 37.
The latter, a Cape Town-set crime thriller, caught the eyes of US movie fans and was shown at a film festival in Texas.
So, what exactly does a line producer do?
“When people ask me that, I explain my role by comparing it to a colouring book for a six-year-old,” Tascha, who is the key manager during daily operations of a film, told Express.
“Every department has crayons. My work is to make sure everyone knows were to colour in and to stay within the lines.”
Despite often working under pressure, Tascha loves her job.
“Someone once asked me what other jobs I would do. I couldn’t answer, because I really don’t know.”
At school, drama and choir were her favourite activities and it came as no surprise that she chose the film industry as a career platform.
“I wanted to be an actress since I can remember. As I grew older I realised that I’d rather want to be behind the scenes.”
And oh, the scenes she has seen. Her CV is decorated with big TV projects such as Vlug na Egipte, Sarah se Geheim and Mfolozi.
She just finished a local Bollywood movie, Bhai’s Café, in Cape Town. Together with friend and co-worker Salomé van Diemen she hopes to produce another project soon through their company Brave Films, which they started last year.
Passion, according to Tascha, is the key ingredient for working in the film industry.
“The film industry is tough. Working hours are long and you live out of a suitcase most of the time. You have to love the film you’re working on.”
One such a project is Nommer 37.
“It’s is a must watch for men, young and old,” she says.
“In Afrikaans, they would say it’s a proper skop, skiet en donner movie.”
Catch Nommer 37 in theatres from June 1.
