Giving You Something You Can Feel
Dear Sis Dolly premiere celebrates a powerful legacy of resilience, hope and South African storytelling
Showing at Ster Kinekor and Nu Metro Cinemas Across South Africa
The much-anticipated, star-studded VIP red-carpet premiere of Dear Sis Dolly, held last night at Nu Metro Cinema, provided an unforgettable evening of celebration, reflection and cinematic excellence as industry leaders, media personalities, celebrities and film enthusiasts gathered to honour a legacy by one of South Africa’s most remarkable women and cultural icons.
The premiere, held in a prestigious setting befitting the occasion, was met with great anticipation from the moment guests arrived. Cameras flashed continuously as cast members, producers, media personalities and celebrities made their way down the carpet engaging with journalists and sharing their excitement for a film that has already sparked national conversation. The event served as a celebration of South African storytelling and a tribute to the enduring legacy of Sis Dolly, Liz Khumalo whose life journey continues to inspire generations of women navigating personal social and economic challenges.
Dear Sis Dolly, directed by Twiggy Matiwana and written by Makganwana Mokgalong, is a tribute to community, self-love and the enduring cultural legacy of Drum Magazine’s iconic agony aunt column. The film is brought to life by a remarkable ensemble cast of South African screen royalty, led by award-winning actress Didintle Khunou. The ensemble includes S’thandiwe Kgoroge as Drum Magazine’s editor-in-chief, Dineo Langa as Sis Dolly’s best friend, Natasha Thahane as her chief rival, Brighton Ngoma as a nerdy IT specialist and legendary performers Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha and Abigail Kubeka, among others. The film is produced by Tshepiso Chikapa Phiri, Moroba Nkawe and Joel Chikapa Phiri of Known Associates Entertainment with advertising legend Peter Vundla as executive producer.
The evening attracted an impressive line-up of industry veterans and celebrated personalities. Among those in attendance were cast members Didintle Khunou, S’thandiwe Kgoroge, Natasha Thahane, Slindokuhle Tshabalala, Alex Sono, legendary actor Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, and legendary actress Abigail Kubeka whose presence underscored the significance of the production. Guests were treated to appearances by celebrated musician and composer Tresor, media personality Criselda Kananda, acclaimed actors Kenneth Nkosi, Tsholo Mashishi, Nonhle Thema, Zikhona Sodlaka, and Kgomotso Christopher, and advertising mogul Happy Ntsingila.
The atmosphere was electric as guests mingled on the red carpet, posing for photographs and sharing their excitement about the film. Conversations centred around the importance of preserving South African stories and recognising the women whose contributions have shaped the country’s cultural landscape. Industry stakeholders, content creators, broadcasters and members of the media were present in large numbers, highlighting the growing anticipation surrounding the film and its expected impact on audiences nationwide.
The formal programme commenced with a series of heartfelt speeches from the film’s producers, who spoke passionately about the journey of bringing Dear Sis Dolly’s story to the screen. Addressing the audience, they emphasised the urgency and relevance of the film in today’s South African context, noting that the country continues to grapple with significant social and economic challenges, including unemployment, mental health struggles, financial hardship and issues affecting women across communities.
According to Tshepiso Chikapa Phiri, Dear Sis Dolly is more than a film; it is a reminder of resilience, hope and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. “Stories like Dear Sis Dolly’s remind us that ordinary people can overcome extraordinary challenges. At a time when so many South Africans are facing uncertainty, we believe Sis Dolly’s legacy offers hope, inspiration and a sense of possibility,” she said.
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