PALI alumnus and Head of PALI Film, Andre Velts, is an award-winning director and producer responsible for several films including Die Pro, Knysna, Raaiselkind and Vuurdoop. He was also the director and producer of Pronk Primêr, which is currently screening on kykNET. We checked in with Andre to get some insight into his career thus far.
What was your favourite student production at PALI, and why?
My favourite student production at PALI was See How They Run. This playholds a special place in my heart for several reasons. Firstly, it gave us the incredible opportunity to go on tour, allowing us to bond and create lasting memories with friends outside the usual classroom setting. The camaraderie we built during those trips was unparalleled.
On a personal note, See How They Run is unforgettable because of one particular performance that turned into an unexpected adventure for me. I completely forgot my cue and missed my entrance, leaving me in a panic backstage. When I finally went on stage, I had no idea where we were in the script. At that moment, I had to rely entirely on improvisation until I could find my bearings and re-join the flow of the play. This experience, while nerve-wracking, taught me valuable lessons about quick thinking, adaptability, and the importance of staying calm under pressure. It was a memorable performance that I look back on with amusement and pride.
You initially started training as an actor and then transitioned into filmmaking; at what point did you realise that you would like to become a filmmaker?
I realized I wanted to become a filmmaker during my third year of training when my creativity and technical skills peaked. People often joke that my brain is wired differently because I'm left-handed, but that unique wiring allowed me to blend creative thinking with technical precision seamlessly - I don’t think it's because I’m left handed. Haha.
The turning point came when I was tasked with making my first film while acting in it. The layered process of conceptualizing, planning, directing, and then stepping into the role of an actor was exhilarating. It was a challenge that required me to use every aspect of my creative and analytical abilities, and I thrived in that environment. The entire process was an adrenaline rush, a high that I hadn't experienced before in the industry. This project made me realize that my true passion lay in filmmaking, where I could fully engage both sides of my brain and bring my unique vision to life.
What production have you worked on thus far that you are the proudest of or would call a career highlight?
Each of my films and series has significantly impacted my life and career. For instance, Knynsa, Die Pro, and Raaiselkind each shaped me in ways I could never have imagined, contributing to my growth as both a filmmaker and a person. These projects taught me valuable lessons about storytelling, character development, and the intricate art of filmmaking. However, looking at my latest work, Horisonne, I believe it will become a career highlight. This project is incredibly special to me, not just because of its unique story and production challenges but also because of the personal and professional growth I experienced during its creation. Horisonne pushed the boundaries of my creativity and technical skills, and the collaborative effort from the entire team was nothing short of inspiring. I am proud of the depth and authenticity we achieved, and it will resonate with audiences and stand out as a significant milestone in my career.
What is, in your opinion, the most critical skill you need as a film director?
The most essential skill a film director needs is the ability to observe life. Being a keen observer allows a director to capture the nuances and subtleties of human behaviour and everyday moments, crucial for creating authentic and relatable stories.
By attentively watching how people interact, express emotions, and navigate their environments, directors can bring a more profound realism and empathy to their work. This skill helps in crafting characters that feel real and in developing scenes that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Observing life also means understanding the world from multiple perspectives, which enriches the storytelling process and fosters a more inclusive and diverse narrative.
Moreover, this observational skill extends to the filmmaking process itself. It enables a director to notice the most minor details on the set, understand the dynamics between cast and crew, and make intuitive decisions that enhance the overall production. Observing life equips a director with the insight and sensitivity needed to tell compelling and meaningful stories.
What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers?
My advice for aspiring filmmakers is always to continue learning and experimenting. The film industry constantly evolves, staying curious and adaptable is crucial. Embrace every opportunity to create, whether a short film, a web series, or a collaborative project. Build a network of like-minded individuals, seek feedback, and learn from successes and failures. Most importantly, stay true to your unique voice and vision—authenticity will set your work apart.
Catch Pronk Primêr every Monday at 20h00 on kykNET.
