Presley’s Tsotsi character honoured
AWARD-WINNING filmmaker Gavin Hood has shared heartfelt memories of the late actor Presley “Tobetsa” Chweneyagae.
Presley, celebrated for his breakthrough role in the Oscar-winning movie Tsotsi, left an unforgettable legacy.
Speaking at Presley’s memorial service held at the State Theatre in Tshwane on Thursday, 5 June, the 63-year-old director couldn’t hold back the tears as he recalled the special bond they formed while working on the ground-breaking movie.
Hood, who had no idea who Presley was before casting him in Tsotsi, said he was blown away by the then young actor’s natural talent.
Presley passed away on 27 May after a short illness.
“Presley understood how to move through a scene. He didn’t just act — he let emotion exist naturally. His raw talent was humble, real, and truthful.
“He never tried to perform through the camera. He simply allowed us to see what he wanted us to feel. That’s what made him unforgettable,” he said.
Presley shot to stardom after his role as Tsotsi in the 2005 movie, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006.
Tsotsi director Gavin Hood has shared memories he shared with the late actor Presley ‘Tobetsa’ Chweneyagae during the memorial service held in the State Theatre.
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The movie, which explored crime, redemption and humanity in Joburg townships, put Mzansi cinema on the world map.
Hood, who has directed major Hollywood movies like Rendition and Eye in the Sky, praised Presley for being the heart of Tsotsi‘s global success.
“He carried the heart of the film. He elevated everyone around him. Our story was seen by millions because of him. He showed the world not just what South Africa is about but what South Africa is capable of. He was a lovely man with a bright dignity,” he said.
Hood is no stranger to international acclaim.
Apart from Tsotsi, he has directed blockbuster films such as X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Ender’s Game, working with stars like Hugh Jackman and Helen Mirren.
However, it is his work on Tsotsi, based on Athol Fugard’s novel, that remains closest to his heart.
Presley will be laid to rest on Saturday morning, 7 June, in Tshwane.
Mzansi has lost a true talent and the world a powerful voice.
