Sony Pictures Classics Buys Embeth Davidtz’s Directorial Debut ‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’

As a film enthusiast with a soft spot for heartfelt and thought-provoking narratives, I can confidently say that “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight” is a must-watch. Embeth Davidtz, a versatile artist who has graced our screens in Schindler’s List, Matilda, Junebug, and Bicentennial Man, now steps into the director’s chair for her feature debut. Her decision to adapt Alexandra Fuller’s memoir and bring it to life with an entirely South African cast and crew speaks volumes about her dedication to authentic storytelling.

Sony Pictures Classics obtained global distribution rights for the film adaptation titled “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight,” which is based on Alexandra Fuller’s memoir recounting her childhood during the Rhodesian civil war.

The film, initially shown at Telluride Film Festival and later screened in Toronto, marks Embeth Davidtz’s first attempt as a feature director. Notably recognized for her roles in “Schindler’s List,” “Matilda,” “Junebug,” and “Bicentennial Man,” she also takes on the role of the protagonist’s (Fuller’s screen stand-in) mother in this production.

1979 and 1980 mark the setting for “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight,” a tale I found deeply resonant as a movie enthusiast. This story centers around young Bobo, who resides on her family farm in what was then Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), at the tail end of the Zimbabwean War for independence. As the official synopsis suggests, “Growing up amidst this prolonged conflict, Bobo absorbs both perspectives of the struggle. Caught between affection for individuals on opposing sides, she grapples to comprehend her life in a way that’s almost magical. Through her innocent 8-year-old eyes, we bear witness to Rhodesia’s last breaths, the family’s indestructible connection with Africa, and the profound wounds that war inflicts on its survivors.

Born in the U.S. but raised in South Africa, Davidtz secured the rights to a memoir eight years ago. She rewrote the script and decided to film in South Africa using an entirely local cast and crew, with newcomer Lexi Venter portraying Bobo following a thorough casting process. To maintain authenticity, Davidtz opted for an untrained actor for the central character. The cast also features Zikhona Bali, Fumani N Shilubana, Rob Van Vuuren, and Anina Hope Reed. Helena Spring, Paul Buys, and Davidtz served as producers, while Anele Modada took on the role of executive producer.

Davidtz expresses his excitement about collaborating with Sony Pictures Classics for the worldwide release of ‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’. In the past, he had worked with them on ‘Junebug’, appreciating their dedication and expertise in spreading that movie. It feels surreal to him that they are now distributing his first screenwriting and directing project – something he never thought possible back then. The film is a homage to those who have endured hardships throughout history.

As a movie enthusiast, I couldn’t help but be blown away by the exceptional talent on display in “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight.” Sony Pictures Classics aptly described its lead actress, Davidtz, as a triple threat, lauding her as an accomplished director, screenwriter, and performer. The film itself is a masterfully directed piece that offers a complete theatrical experience, one that leaves you in awe.

2024-09-26 22:16

Sony Pictures Classics Buys Embeth Davidtz’s Directorial Debut ‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’

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