Stepping into the lead role of Bruid van die Jaar was not simply another acting job for actress Carine Rous; it was the continuation of a journey more than two decades in the making.

The character of Lienkie Koekemoer was first created for Rous’s fourth-year cabaret production, while studying at Pretoria Technikon 21 years ago. Now, years later, the lovable and quirky romantic has found new life on the global stage through the film’s release on Netflix. “I’ve walked a long road with her,” said Rous.

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Lienkie is a hopeful romantic, shaped by a difficult childhood spent in orphanages and foster homes. Determined to build the happy family she never had, she becomes consumed by the idea of creating the perfect future – until discovering her fiancé is cheating on her. What follows is a heartfelt and humorous journey of self-discovery, revenge, and unexpected love. For Rous, one of the qualities she connected with most in Lienkie was her humour and refusal to give up. “She finally embraces her true and goofy self.”

Much of the film was shot in Linden, the suburb she and her husband, producer Luke Rous, proudly call home. The couple intentionally chose Linden as a central filming location, wanting to showcase the neighbourhood’s creative spirit and unique charm on screen. “I just have a love for Linden. Shooting in this beautiful suburb gave me peace.”
From local coffee shops to leafy streets and familiar community spaces, Linden becomes almost a character of its own throughout the film. Rous described the atmosphere on set as both peaceful and deeply creative, with cast and crew quickly falling in love with the suburb themselves.

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One of her most memorable filming experiences took place at Cowboy Town, in Krugersdorp, during a lively dance sequence. “I’ll always remember the crew rehearsing the dance moves off camera while we performed them on set. It brought everyone together.”

Working alongside her husband on the project was another highlight. “He is encouraging and my ultimate cheerleader. I’m proud of him for making this project happen.”

Since its Netflix release on May 15, the film has already found audiences far beyond South Africa, even reaching the top three films in Brazil. For Rous, the film’s international success is proof that local stories, filled with heart, humour, and authenticity, can resonate anywhere in the world. She believes Bruid van die Jaar will leave audiences with hope, laughter, and a smile that lasts long after the credits roll.

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