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Kew-based SAFTA winner urges people to go after their dreams

Ricardo Klassen, a film director for the TV show Skeem Saam, shares his directing journey after winning his first SAFTA.

South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) winner, film director, and Kew resident Ricardo Klassen ticked off a goal last year after walking away with the Best Director award.

Read more: 14th annual SAFTAs’ nominees revealed

Klassen began watching the awards show at 13 years old, and always waited eagerly to see who would secure Best Director and Best Actor, so winning it as a first-time nominee left him speechless.

“My parents have videos of me directing my siblings in plays. Storytelling has always been in my blood, and being the eldest of three siblings naturally shaped me into a leader.”

Professionally, his journey began with directing a music video for the song Dreamer by Slikour and RJ Benjamin. He then continued his journey on the local drama series Skeem Saam 10 years ago as a junior editor, before working his way up to the director’s chair.

“The journey has been incredible and I owe it all to our executive producer, Winnie Serite, for allowing me to prove myself.”

Also read: Saftas 13 honour the crème de la crème of South Africa’s film and TV industry

The film director’s highlights include working with some of South Africa’s biggest talents including Archie Moroka, Warren Masemola, and the cast of Skeem Saam.

Klassen was also nominated for a Royalty Soapy Award and a Next Gen Award.

He added that what fulfilled him was seeing how his work positively impacted the lives of viewers. “I also had the honour of directing and producing my movie, Die Hustle, which became the highest-grossing independent film in South Africa.”

Klassen advises upcoming directors to start shooting and directing their movies with whatever resources they have, and not hesitate to credit themselves as directors.

“My first movies featured my entire family as the cast. Whether they liked it or not, they had to be part of it. Never give up, stay persistent, and always put God first.”

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Related article: #SAFTAS highlights

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