Close Encounters
Encounters is proud to present two films resulting from the Close Encounters / SABC1 Laboratory 2002, where 4 films were commissioned. They will be shown on SABC1’s Monday popular 10pm documentary slot.
The Laboratory was supported by Pro Helvetia – Swiss Arts Council, the European Union’s CWCI Fund, the Royal Netherlands Embassy, the British Council and the Jan Vrijman Fund.
One night in the lives of five men looking for love on the mean streets of Johannesburg. There’s Foster, a homeless rent boy who came here to realise his dream of becoming a musician and now services men who don’t get enough “sexercise”.
Bongani, whose loyalty is divided between the gay client who supports him and his girlfriend, who gave him a child.
Keke’s a cross-dresser who passes as a very attractive woman.
Bethuel, who now makes as much money from selling sex as he did hijacking cars.
And Fihlo, a traditional healer who believes his homosexuality has the blessing of his ancestors.
A provocative, incredibly intimate glimpse into the inner lives of these five men and the social milieus they inhabit.