By: Natasha Archary

Sarafina has officially been selected by the Cannes Film Festival yet again.
The South African film which stars Miriam Makeba, Whoppi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo John Kani, Mbongeni Ngema and Somizi Mhlongo had its world premiere three decades ago.
This was when Sarafina was selected as Cannes’ Official Selection of the Festival.
Now, the Cannes Classics section recognizes the film, as one of the works of quality which has contributed to the evolution of motion picture arts, and encouraged the development of the film industry throughout the world.
The iconic South African film has been embraced by a multi-generational audience over the years. Sarafina, shows the strength of young women who made their mark in South Africa’s journey to freedom.
It’s a vibrant combination of drama, music, and dance. Entertaining though the classic film is, it is still as relevant today as it was 30-years ago.
With screenplay by Mbongeni Ngema and William Nicholson, Sarafina is one of South Africa’s most-awarded films.
Produced by Anant Singh and directed by Darrell James Roodt, a digitally remastered producer’s cut with never-seen-before footage of Sarafina will be making its way to IMAX screens soon.
Leleti Khumalo remembers when the film was first played at Cannes in 1992 and the cast and crew received a 20-minute long standing ovation.
“It’s so exciting to be going back to the Cannes Film Festival. In 1992, we had a 20-minute standing ovation, what an amazing experience it was. I look forward to reliving that moment again this year.”
Sarafina is the first South African film to be selected twice by the coveted film festival, setting another record.
Anant Singh hopes Sarafina’s return to Cannes will motivate a new generation of filmmakers to tell timeless stories.
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