Former Jeugie stars in moving new South African film

A former Birch Acres resident has landed himself a role in the new South African movie Krotoa.

The movie opened in cinemas in August and tells the story of Krotoa, a woman many people consider the mother of coloured people. The film has already scooped eight international festival awards for its depiction of Krotoa – a woman who was a servant of Jan van Riebeeck.

Jacques du Plessis Bessenger (37) resides in Cape Town but actually grew up in Birch Acres and went to Laerskool Mooifontein and Hoërskool Jeugland before heading to Pretoria to study drama at Tshwane University of Technology.

He said he discovered his love for acting when he was in grade three. “My teacher organised a class concert. A friend and I created a little comedy sketch where I played a psychiatrist and he was my patient. My teacher then entered me for Kempton Park Eisteddfod and the rest is history.”

Jacques actually considers his mother, who teaches at Con Amore School, as one of his role models along with Cate Blanchett and Michael Vasbender.

He says what keeps him motivated to pursue acting changes from time to time but currently, it is his love for the craft of acting and his curiosity of the human condition.

“I want to keep on acting for as long as I can and hopefully start creating my own movies and series. What would make me feel complete, which I probably still need to learn, is something I already know but I am learning it as I am growing older: that I am worthy,” said Jacques.

Speaking about his role in the movie

How did you get the role?

“I went for the casting and they offered me the part.”

How do you feel about your role and the movie in general?

“I think it is a very important story that needs to be told. It gives a voice to a group of people who have been ignored in the past and it shows a very important part of our country’s history. I enjoyed playing the part of Pieter van Meerhof. He really existed. It’s great to think you are bringing someone back to life and I got to ride a horse which was great fun.”

What does your character have in common (if so) with Jacques Bessinger?

“We both love nature and we both like falling in love.”

How has the experience been and what have you learned about the industry and acting?

“It was a challenging experience but at the same time very fulfilling. It reminded me to trust my gut feeling when it comes to acting and making certain choices.”

Jacques says he is still very fond of Kempton Park and still visits his parents who live in the same house where he grew up.