SA actor gets Graeme Smith role

Whenever a biopic of a South African public figure is to be produced, most South African actors have come to accept that their chances of landing that lead role are usually pretty slim, as international actors are instead chosen to play the glamorous roles. 

 

For example Cry Freedom, based on the life of black consciousness leader Steve Biko, was played by Denzel Washington. Nelson Mandela’s numerous roles have been played by the likes of Morgan Freeman, Terrence Howard and Idris Elba (yes, you get where we going with this one).  

 

But there seems to be hope for our local actors with the release of a film about South African cricket captain Graeme Smith.

 

Filming has already started in Cape Town and according to 2Oceans Vibe, final scenes are set to be shot in Zimbabwe.

 

Oscar Nominee and the man behind the internationally acclaimed blockbuster District 9, Neill Blomkamp, will be directing the movie.  Blomkamp will be quite a busy man in the coming months, as he has confirmed that he will be working closely with Die Antwoord for another upcoming film entitled Chappie.

 

It was originally believed that former SA cricketer Jonty Rhodes’ film was first in line for production. However, it’s emerged that Blomkamp feels it is imperative that Smith’s story gets the green light first and so has sped production plans up. 

 

Hollywood Hunk Ryan Reynolds was in line to land the role of Graeme Smith, and he was even tipped off about the potential gig while he was in Cape Town (Filming Safe House alongside Denzel Washington). However, Reynold’s inability to nail the South African accent got in his way.

 

We also hear that his ball catching skills weren’t up to scratch!

 

Instead, Blomkamp decided to root for a local gem and approached Ken Weyers (pictured) to play the role of Graeme Smith.

 

Weyers is still a bit of an unknown in the local film industry, although this role is sure to boost his popularity. However, his acting skills, his resemblance to Smith and even the fact that he shares the cricketer’s left-handedness all contributed to his being the perfect candidate for this role.

 

Local celebs who are also said to be acting in the film include Top Billing presenter Jeannie D,  who is rumored to be cast as Smith's love interest. We also expect to see the ever so sizzling Minki van der Westhuizen, who will be playing herself.