The heartfelt chaos of motherhood

KARABO Lediga’s directorial debut, Sabbatical, is a bittersweet mother-daughter drama.

- DEBASHINE THANGEVELO

It explores profound themes of family roots, ambition, integrity, deception, and loyalty. If you haven't seen it yet on the big screen, it is highly recommended.

The film benefits greatly from the exceptional performances of Mona Monyane as Lesego and Clementine Mosimane as her mother, Dorris, a truly remarkable pairing.

I had the pleasure of a téte-a-téte with the actresses, who have developed a strong offscreen bond, marked by their noticeable warmth towards one another and praiseworthy comments. It was truly heartening to witness, especially since this is the first time they have worked with one another. Mosimane said: “It was delicious working together, and I think it’s because we were giving each other the space to deal with the emotions of our characters.

“Also, as actors, the understanding, the mutual respect, the love for the craft, because it’s not about us, it’s about the craft and the characters, so that when they come to life, they are so authentic and realistic, that was very important to us.”

Monyane added, “I agree, mutual respect. And we found a lot of similarities in our approach. So I think it’s much easier when you're acting alongside someone who takes things as seriously as you do and appreciates the opportunity to tell a story.