African Couch Potato
African Couch Potato is a South African perspective on all things film and television. Hosted by award-winning TV producer, Gino Shelile, it mashes up in-studio interviews with industry professionals, titles to check out each week, a current film or series review, and a look at old movies that are worth rewatching.
S2 E43 · Mon, April 28, 2025
S2 43 Jordy Sank and Gabriella Blumberg on “Die Kwiksilwers”
What do you think? let us know In this week's ACP, we were lucky enough to get both the director and the producer of the acclaimed road trip movie Die Kwiksilvers . Gino sits down with director Jordy Sank and producer Gabriella Blumberg from Sanktuary Films to find out how two "rooineks" ended up creating this delightful Afrikaans mix of comedy, grief and road trip antics. Jordy is a two-time South African Film and TV Award-winning Director, Screenwriter and Producer known for his feature documentary I Am Here , which won the Best South African Documentary Award at the Durban International Film Festival (2021). Die Kwiksilwers is his directorial narrative feature debut. Gabriella is also an award winner. She is a producer, director, and writer who focuses on stories that break stigmas. She produced the 3x SAFTA winning feature documentary I Am Here and the award-winning short Leemtes en Leegheid. She produced and co-wrote Die Kwiksilwers. Filled with "heart and humour", Die Kwiksilwers follows the adventures of Elsabe Marais, an elderly widow and her three geriatric friends, who embark on a hilarious road trip across the Karoo to be at a meteor shower viewing in Sutherland. With only three days to get there, they speed away from her overprotective son, who is hot on their tail. Pile into the Ford Granada and head for the cinema from May 1st to catch Die Kwiksilwers on the silver screen. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E42 · Mon, April 21, 2025
S2 42 Darrell McLean on Stunt Direction and “One Piece” (Netflix)
What do you think? let us know What's it like to win an Emmy? In this ep Gino gets to find out, as he chats to Stunt Coordinator Darrell McLean. In March this year, Netflix's One Piece Live Action grabbed two major awards at the Children and Family Emmy Awards for “Outstanding Original Song for a Children’s or Young Teen Program” and “Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Live Program”. One Piece was actually nominated in 11 categories and was up against Percy Jackson , Spiderwick and Sesame Street. Not bad going! One Piece is an action adventure that tells the story of a young boy, Monkey D Luffy, who dreams of becoming King of the Pirates. One Piece Live Action is based on the manga series written and illustrated by celebrated manga artist Eiichiro Oda. For Darrell, the world of pirates is nothing new, as he spent several years working on Black Sails and is now back on board having just finished shooting Season 2 of One Piece. Catch Season 1 streaming on Netflix. But, what is it like to win an Emmy? Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E41 · Mon, April 14, 2025
S2 41 Podcasters on TV, Kwa-Tsholo, A Kind of Madness, 2 Emmys for SA, Million Dollar Secret, New NFVF CEO & SABC Head of Marketing
What do you think? let us know A mixed bag this week, as Gino looks at what's been happening in SA and abroad as well as local streaming highlights. Local podcasts got a boost as DStv put 8 of the top local shows on the DStv bouquets. Kwa-Tsholo launched on Mzanzi Magic, drama and comedy weaved together in the world of hairdressing. Local production A Kind of Madness hits the silver screen at Nu Metro One Piece , a live manga shot in Cape Town bagged not one but two Emmys. Hats off to them! Million Dollar Secret, a new game show where one player starts with $1 million, while 11 others engage in a countrywide pursuit to track and capture them, hoping to claim the cash prize for themselves. On Netflix. The National Film and Video Foundation has appointed Vincent Blennies as its new CEO while the SABC has brought Ongeziwe “Oz” Lupuwana on board as Head of Integrated Marketing. That should keep you going for a while. Sit back, feet up and keep on bingeing. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E40 · Mon, April 07, 2025
S2 40 Andile Sinqoto on the Directors Guild of South Africa
What do you think? let us know South Africa’s film, television and commercial production sectors now have a dedicated champion in the form of the Directors Guild of South Africa (DGSA). Chaired by acclaimed director, Andile Sinqoto, the guild is supplying "a unified voice for all creative directors, ensuring they are supported, protected and given the opportunities they deserve to thrive in their careers.” African Couch Potato managed to grab a few minutes out of Andile's busy schedule to chat about the guild and its place alongside international institutions like the Directors Guild of America, the New York Film Academy, and Stage 32, providing members with exclusive benefits such as educational programmes and skills development training. Currently ranked in the top 25 TVC Directors by Creative Pool, Andile Sinqoto has almost two decades of experience in numerous fields of flm and television production. He is now the Chairperson of the Independent Directors Association Africa, as well as the Directors Guild of South Africa. Founded in 2024 and representing all directors within the profession ranging from directors of photography, assistant directors, creative directors, and directors’ assistants, the DGSA already boasts a membership of over 40 of South Africa’s most influential directors. “Directors are the heart and soul of South African storytelling, yet our contributions often go underappreciated in industry negotiations and policy discussions,” says Andile. https://dgosa.org.za https://creativepool.com/ Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E39 · Mon, March 31, 2025
S2 39 Richard Finn Gregory on Steinheist
What do you think? let us know Millions of South Africans who had direct or indirect investments in the company Steinhof, suddenly saw their savings disappear overnight. Steinhoff CEO Markus Jooste got caught pulling the scam of the century. Steinheist, currently streaming on Showmax, sheds light on Jooste’s scandalous business actions and on how corruption in the private sector all too regularly goes unnoticed. Gino gets to chat, via Zoom, with series director Richard Finn Gregory. This was the last man to film Nelson Mandela in a private setting before he passed away… He has won 2 SAFTAs and been nominated for 3… He then led the SAFTA judging for multiple years… He has a Medal of Honour from the South African Academy of Sciences and Arts… He attended film school in Barcelona… He has a Masters degree in scriptwriting and directing… And the 2022 release of his Showmax Original, Steinheist, broke records for the most views on the first day for a docu-series. With the last two episodes fresh on the streaming platform, it was a great time to talk to the "Silver Fox". You'll have to listen to find out! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E38 · Mon, March 24, 2025
S2 38 Yalezo Njuguna (Festival Director) of BAI Heatseekers
What do you think? let us know Some people seem to be able to do it all. This episode finds Gino chatting to one such person. Yalezo Njuguna, film-maker, podcaster, content creator and curator, and the festival director of BAI Heatseekers. Yalezo is an acclaimed director and producer, known for his ability to capture the essence of contemporary African culture. His expertise covers many genres, including comedy, documentary, and social commentary, with standout projects like Afriquan Film Conversations and the Bubbling Culture documentary series. Through his production company, Enraptured Odyssey, he has developed a range of film and web-series projects that celebrate African storytelling, challenge industry norms, and push the boundaries of digital content creation. The recent BAI's Heatseekers Film Showcase presented a top showcase of South African short films and digital content created by trailblazing local youth filmmakers and digital voices. Through his unique vision and dynamic projects, Yalezo continues to inspire and captivate audiences, and make a significant impact in the creative world. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E37 · Mon, March 17, 2025
S2 37 Deborah Brown Magaya (Kulea Childcare Villages) PODCASTHON
What do you think? let us know This week's episode is something different as this year we are taking part in Podcasthon - a global movement where podcasters from across the world come together and dedicate an episode of their podcast to a charity that they would like to support. Our chosen charity is Kulea Childcare Villages. In Kenya and Tanzania, families living in extreme or absolute poverty have high rates of malnutrition and maternal death and usually cannot afford school fees for all their children or medical care. When a mother passes in childbirth, her baby is at great risk of dying, also, so extended families often surrender that baby to an orphanage because they cannot afford formula. Kulea Villages helps keep families together even if the mother has passed. We provide crisis support immediately (infant formula and food for the family) and work through holistic support to help families escape the endless cycle of poverty. Our two programs, Child Sponsorship and Maisha Matters, provide assistance which focuses on the physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well-being of the caregiver(s) of each enrolled baby or child. We extend mentorship to the caregiver by enabling them to start and run their own small business. After a child or baby has been in our program for 1 - 2 years and is leaving, our hope is to have a healthy baby or child whose needs are met consistently through the small business run by their mother or relative who now has confidence in his/her ability to earn a living and to raise children. Gino managed to get some chat time, via Zoom, with Deborah Brown Magaya, Executive Director of Kulea Childcare Villages, from her offices in Tanzania. If you want to know more about Kulea Childcare Villages or help in any way contact them through their website kuleavillages.org . Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E36 · Mon, March 10, 2025
S2 36 Beauty In Black Part 2, Starlink, SABC Streaming Levy, Ebenhaezar Dibakwane, Nigeria Sues Multichoice
What do you think? let us know What's been happening? What's hot and what's not? This week Gino looks at current events in the African broadcasting industry, plus Tyler Perry is back, with part 2 of Beauty in Black . We kick off with a plan to cover the cost of the national broadcaster, the SABC, by bringing in a levy on streaming services. Unless you have a TV licence, of course! Part 2 of Tyler Perry's Beauty in Black has dropped, so Netflix and... whatever you get up to. Elon Musk is sulking because SA won't change the country's laws for his Starlink. Sadly, popular comedian and actor Ebenhaazer Dibakwane has passed away. And Multichoice Nigeria is once more in the news for all the wrong reasons. Now for some us time: We are proud to be part of the global event, Podcasthon 2025, uniting thousands of podcasts from around the world, all dedicated to supporting charitable causes. We are still No. 1 Film and TV podcast in the country, according to Feedspot.com, and a New York publicist has been in touch. . . Feet up and get binging! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E35 · Mon, March 03, 2025
S2 35 Kanyi Nokwe on “Soft Life”
What do you think? let us know Sex sells! so they say, but Kanyi Nokwe sells sex. As Lady T, she oversees the daily operations of NubiaBlaq, an establishment that serves as a front for an escort agency in Showmax's hit show Soft LIfe . In this weeks episode Gino talks to Kanyi, a classically trained musician, thespian, public speaker & creative entrepreneur about her career and what drives her. This Naledi Theatre Award Nominee began her training as a Triple Threat at the tender age of six and has never looked back. She finished Matric at the National School of The Arts, specialising in Classical Music and completed her BTech degree in Musical Theatre at Tshwane University of Technology in 2015. From stage to the small screen Kanyi has consistently pushed the boundaries. In conversation Kanyi reveals how attending the National School of the Arts in high school mean she had to catch buses in Hillbrow. The pimps at her bus stop used to look out for her and she became well-acquainted with them and with the prostitutes as well. "That gave me a front-row seat to the realities of sex work." So, get comfotable in your own front-row seat, as all the episodes for Soft Life are ready to binge-watch on Showmax. African Couch Potato is now on Patreon, so you can go check us out, support us and even give a donation so we can continue doing what we love the most. https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato We are also officially part of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA). We are currently in the top 50 on the 100 Best South Africa Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 And no. 1 on the 10 Best South Africa Movies Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E34 · Mon, February 24, 2025
S2 34 Netflix and Chill
What do you think? let us know "I bless the rains down in Africa, I bless the rains down in Africa (gonna take the time). . ." sung Toto way back when, and the rains sure have been happening here in Jozi, so we thought it best to also take our time. This week's episode finds Gino on his couch catching up with what Netflix has on offer. Umjolo: There Is No Cure - After former pageant queen works on a memoir after losing her title for exposing a scandal. Apple Cider Vinegar - The life of wellness guru Belle Gibson, who had a large social media following, where she pretended to be suffering from cancer but keeping the disease under control using self-care therapies. None of it was true. Kinda Pregnant - When Lainy's plan to settle down and start a family falls apart, she puts on a fake baby bump, tells a lie, and accidentally falls for her dream guy. Escape Room - Six strangers find themselves in a maze of deadly mystery rooms and must use their wits to survive. Escape Room: Tournament of Champions - Six people unwillingly find themselves locked in another series of escape rooms, slowly uncovering what they have in common to survive. Joining forces with two of the original survivors, they soon discover they've all played the game before. Honeymoon Crasher - When his fiancee dumps him at the altar for her ex, a young man is left with no alternative but to go on his romantic honeymoon with his mother. School of Chocolate - Eight top pastry and chocolate professionals elevate their skills under the supervision of world-renowned chocolatier, Amaury Guichon. That's one recommendation for each day of the week - that should keep you busy. Hot news is that we are we are now on Patreon, so you can go check us out, support us and even give a donation so we can continue doing what we love the most. https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato We are also officially part of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA). And, if that wasn't enough, we are currently in the top 50 on the 100 Best South Africa Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 and (fanfare please!) at no. 1 on the 10 Best South Africa Movies Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com
S2 E33 · Mon, February 17, 2025
S2 33 Kendrick Lamar, Diddy, Ernest Cole, StudioCanal, Pick n Pay and Superman
What do you think? let us know Every now and again we need to look beyond the borders of our country or even the continent, and this is one of those episodes where our love for excellence takes us abroad. We kick off (see what we did there) with Kendrick Lamar's Superbowl Halftime show which drew 133.7 million viewers, more than MJ (133.1m) and certainly more than watched the actual game. Moving downfield, Gino is underwhelmed by the Showmax release of the Sean Combs documentary Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy . From bad to good, apartheid era photographer Ernest Cole is in the frame with a documentary film that premiered in Cannes and will feature at the upcoming Joburg Film Festival. Canal Plus's StudioCanal is planning a feature film in SA, Pick n Pay's Price Palooza feat. Rick Ross hits your screens, and even more bizarre than all the rest is the case of Superman suing Superman. Good old truth, justice, and the American way. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E32 · Mon, February 10, 2025
S2 32 Multichoice Agency Day & a Presentation on Podcasting
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino gets back to us on what happened at the Multichoice Agency Day, where he was invited to give a talk in which he broke down the era of self-broadcasting and the need for synergy between traditional media such as television and the fastest growing digital format, podcasts, i.e. ACP. The day kicked off at 9 with various speakers from the Multichoice (MC) group sharing insights about their markets, their marketing efforts and the deal with Canal Plus and how it will affect MC's employees. One of the fascinating speakers of the day was James Frank who has worked with Beyonce and The Voice on two different continents. He was the one who secured the rights for MC to use Bohemian Rhapsody for one of its campaigns. Is this the real life? Or is this just fantasy? No! It's all for real - Time for lunch. It was Gino's time to talk after lunch and he wowed the audience with his presentation titled "Self-broadcast versus the Small Screen" which he unpacks for you here. The audience loved it so much that they asked for the whole presentation to be circulated - so let's see what happens... Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E31 · Mon, February 03, 2025
S2 31 Adulting S3, 1st Saffa Stunt Awards, an Oscar Nomination and Mufasa: The Lion King
What do you think? let us know What's going down in our own backyard? In this episode Gino chats about what's new and what's news in our local film and television industry, kicking off with a fun day Adulting. In the third and final season of Adulting , the stakes are higher and the nights are wilder than ever. Bonga is newly married, Mpho is freshly divorced, Vuyani is about to open his dream nightclub, and Eric is trying to embrace a 9 to 5 car service centre job, with a boss. S3 is now streaming, with new episodes landing every Saturday. To kick things off Showmax hosted a fun day where you could meet the stars and their co-stars and take them on with video games. Gino cracked the nod and gives his report back. In May last year we chatted to stunt artists/co-ordinators Katja Hopkins and Craig Macrae about their dream of putting South African performers on the map with their SAFFA Stunt Awards. We are delighted to say that this happened and will become a yearly event. Top News! A South African short film detailing rhino poaching and conservation called The Last Ranger has been nominated for an Oscar. And lastly, all hail to the king! The prequel to The Lion King follows the rise of Mufasa from lost lion cub to king of the pride. "On the other side of the light, a lion was born without a drop of nobility in his blood. A lion who will change our lives forever. The earth will shake. Destiny awaits you..." Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E30 · Mon, January 27, 2025
S2 30 Ntokozo Mlaba on “The Passage”
What do you think? let us know Our first in-studio guest for 2025. In this week's offering, after chasing him for months, Gino finally gets a one on one with Ntokozo Mlaba, acclaimed film director, social activist and cultural curator of multiple artistic disciplines, and gets the lowdown on the short film The Passage . “ The Passage is not just a film. It’s a mirror, a reckoning, and a call to action,” says Ntokozo. “I wanted to confront the layered struggles of the hood, not from a voyeuristic perspective, but through the eyes of those who live it—particularly young men navigating the treacherous terrain of loyalty, survival, and morality. The township is a paradox—it breaks you down and builds you up.” With a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a passion for social justice, Ntokozo uses storytelling to address critical societal issues. His award-winning films have been celebrated both locally and internationally, cementing his status as one of South Africa’s most exciting young voices in cinema. And before you ask how a BCom is of any use to a filmmaker and creative, ask yourself how Ntokozo has managed to get big corporate funding for his projects. You see... Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E29 · Mon, January 20, 2025
S2 29 The Longest Month of the Year
What do you think? let us know As January drags through its 11½ months with the speed of a government oversight committee, the best way to get to your next payday is with some good old binging. In today's episode Gino gives us a quick throw forward to what's coming up between now and Valentine's Day. (For the guys, there goes the salary again as the prices of roses and chocolates suddenly become more expensive than platinum. For the girls, sit back and enjoy it all.) We kick off with what's coming out on Netflix, followed by Showmax's newbies. We next look at Prime Video's "recently added" and wrap it up with what's new on Apple TV. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E28 · Mon, January 13, 2025
S2 28 January Binges
What do you think? let us know It’s already the middle of January and we are all broke. Whatever salary we got in December was finished in December. The only thing that remains is shrivelled up carrots and half an onion in the fridge plus a packet of noodles that you and the kids will have to fight over. A lot of us are back at work, depressingly so. Our lack of cash, however, does mean that we have a lot of time on our hands to watch things. In today’s episode, Gino lays down his Top Ten of what's hot on the box. The Kings of Tupelo: A Southern Crime Saga - A small-town feud, an internet conspiracy, an Elvis impersonator, black market organs, and a presidential assassination attempt intertwine in Mississippi's jaw-dropping scandal. Curry and Cyanide: The Jolly Joseph Case - The real-life case of Jolly Joseph, a lady suspected of planning the cyanide poisoning of six family members over more than ten years, including a two-year-old kid. Missing You - Detective Kat Donovan's world unravels when she finds her estranged fiancé on a dating app. Leading her to reopen her father's unsolved murder. A Quiet Place: Day One - A young woman named Sam finds herself trapped in New York City during the early stages of an invasion by alien creatures with ultra-sensitive hearing. Cunk on Life - Philomena Cunk delves into life's profound questions, examining subjects from the big bang to AI, meeting academics and creatives, all with her trademark misguided observations. Umjolo: My Beginning, My End - Caught between her family and her free spirit, Mayi begins to question her upcoming nuptials when she meets a charming and passionate saxophonist. Mr Easy Loo - Based on Sam Matona's story, a self-made millionaire who built a business from the ground up. Set in the 1980s, Mr Easy Loo is a story about resilience, love and realising your dreams - even when the odds are stacked against you. Senna - Fictional miniseries based on the life of Ayrton Senna da Silva, the Brazilian racing legend who won the Formula One World Drivers' Championship three times. Youngins - A hard-hitting teen telenovela set at a boarding school in Johannesburg. Ma - A lonely woman befriends a group of teenagers and decides to let them party at her house. Just when the kids think their luck couldn't get any better, things start happening that make them question the intention of their host. Enjoy this lot and payday will be here sooner than you think. Happy binging! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato <a href='https:
S2 E27 · Mon, January 06, 2025
S2 27 New Movies and Series Coming Out in 2025.
What do you think? let us know Welcome to 2025! As we move into the New Year, many people are heading back to work, holidays done and time to get back to the grindstone, but fear not, for there is plenty of entertainment comimg your way in 2025. Today's episode highlights the best to look out for, broken down month by month, followed by what else is going to pop up on your screens this year. Here is the full list of 100 (bold denotes an SA release) 28 Years Later The Gorge Snow White Wicked: For Good Superman Jurassic Park: Rebirth Star Trek: Section 31 How To Train Your Dragon You Are Cordially Invited Captain America: Brave New World Lilo & Stitch Ballerina Into The Deep Last Breath Novocaine The Fantastic Four F1 Final Destination; Bloodlines Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare Thunderbolts Frankenstein Karate Kid A Minecraft Movie I Know What You Did Last Summer Michael The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes movie Marty Supreme Wake Up Dead Man Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy Wolf Man Avatar: Fire and Ash Som van Twee Mortal Kombat 2 Mickey 17 Sinners Den of Thieves Dog Man Flight Risk Freakier Friday Tron 3 Havoc The Monkey The Amateur Alarum Angels The Conjuring: Last Rites Companion The Bad Guys 2 The Running Man In The Grey Snow White and the Evil Queen The Smashing Machine Popeye the Slayer Man Wise Guys Henry Danger: the movie Inheritance The Naked Gun Back In Action The Accountant 2 Now You See Me 3 Marked Men Bubble & Squeak Elio The Bride Love Hurts Predator: Badlands Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 Nobody 2 The Unbreakable Boy The History of Sound Becoming Led Zeppelin M3gan 2.0 The Passion of The Christ: Resurrection The Ritual The Black Phone 2 Return of The Living Dead The King of Kings The Phoenician Scheme Ash The Housemaid Greenland: Migration The Office “South African version” We Will Never Die Poachers Moon Saw XI The Strangers: Chapter 2 God Loves The Green Bay Packers Black Bag Downtown Abbey 3 Sister Act 3 Pinocchio Unstrung Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Destination Wedding Kiss of the Spider
S2 E26 · Mon, December 30, 2024
S2 26 New Year’s 2024: Looking Back and Throwing Forward
What do you think? let us know As 2024 rolls to a close, Gino takes a look back over the year at what we have achieved. 78 episodes down and we have grown considerably, establishing African Couch Potato as a podcast recognised on the global stage. Before we turn the lights out on the past year, we also take a look at some of the outstanding titles that came out in 2024 on our streaming services Spooksoeker Soft Life Wyfie Shaka iLembe The Fix The Station Strangler Brasse Vannie Kaap Die Bloedhonde with Tobie Cronje Beulah Adulting (S2) Umjolo: Gone Girl Umjolo: Day Ones Disaster Holiday Blood Legacy Lobola Man A Soweto Love Story How To Ruin Love Savage Beauty (S2) Blood and Water (S4) 016 FM Classified Happiness Is… Inkabi Heart of the Hunter Soon Comes Night Losing Lerato 2 Love Never Lies: South Africa The Ultimatum: South Africa Rhino Man Don’t Let’s Go To The Dogs Tonight London Recruits Ernest Cole: Lost and Found Carissa ZEF: The Story of Die Antwoord 444.2 And that's us for 2024 - wishing all of you a happy and prosperous New Year and roll on 2025. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E25 · Mon, December 23, 2024
S2 25 A Very Curious Christmas
What do you think? let us know Hosting the Christmas Lunch This year Gino is bravely hosting his family for the first time, with all that that entails. The preparation, the food, the drink, the decorations, the music. All potential areas of disaster. In this episode Gino tells us how he navigates that difficult path. We take a break with a "what to watch" on Netflix and Showmax, before heading back to Gino's for lunch and his ultimate Christmas playlist. NetfliXmas Mary Biggest Heist Ever Anthony Jeselnik: Bones and All Our Little Secret Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… The Garfield Movie The Later Daters Tarot No Good Deed Disaster Holiday (bonus) Bad Boys: Ride or Die ShowmaXmas Soft Life Youngins S2 Spooksoeker All Blacks Collection Tabby McTat The Station Strangler Gino's Christmas Playlist All For You - Glenn Jones O Nketsang? - Rex Rabanye Via Orlando - Monwa & Son Weekend Special - Brenda Fassie BoMapefane - Bhudaza Neria - Oliver Mtukudzi Into Yam’ - Ringo Madlingozi featuring Oliver Mtukudzi Sondela - Ringo Madlingozi Take Your Love And Keep It - Steve Kekana Come To Me (Zwakala) - Stimela Vuli Ndlela - Brenda Fassie Thathi Sghubhu - Bongo Maffin Ho Lokile - Tshepo Tshola Superman - Cassper Nyovest For A Reason - Zhane After all that, Boxing Day gives you the chance to recover. Merry Christmas to everyone out there. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E24 · Mon, December 16, 2024
S2 24 Nthabiseng Mokoena on Becoming A Director and “Soft Life” (Showmax)
What do you think? let us know In today's episode Gino chats to Nthabiseng Mokoena via Zoom from her home after a long day on set. Her love for story telling has increased her ability to be able to interchange her role between director and producer. She is currently busy directing Soft Life on Showmax. Nthabiseng is a Wits University graduate with a BA in Drama and Film. She has huge experience in television - both as director and producer. And with her, there are no shortcuts. She started her career in television at the bottom of the ladder as a production assistant on the Big Idea (SABC). Over the past years she has worked her way up from runner to production coodinator, production manager, line producer and finally producer and director. Her extensive list of credits include: - Happiness Is... (Netflix) - Blood Legacy (Netflix) - Fatal Seduction (Netflix) - Law, Love & Betrayal (Showmax) - The Wife (Showmax) - Our Perfect Wedding (Mzansi Magic) - Single Guys (SABC) Her ultimate goal is to work for the Thabo Mbeki Foundation and to help in telling African stories and the African Renaissance dream where we as Africans can be proud of who we are and our capabilities. Soft Life is the story of an ordinary township girl who enters the secretive world of high-society companionship (read escort) to settle her mother's medical bills. It is currently streaming on Showmax. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E23 · Mon, December 09, 2024
S2 23 Spooksoeker with Joshwin Dyson
What do you think? let us know From the Emmy-winning animation of the last episode, this time Gino ventures into the world of the supernatural as he catches up with multi award-winning actor Joshwin Dyson via a Zoom call to Cape Town (voices in the ether, anyone?). 22 year-old Joshwin has been cleaning up on the awards front: in 2019 he won the KyKnet National Acting Competition, in 2022, Most Promising Actor in the Zabalaze Theatre Festival, and last year he won Best Supporting Actor at Silwerskerm as Elvin in Old Righteous Blues , selected as South Africa’s Oscar entry in October 2024. At the start of November, he was up for two Aardklop Awards for Ken Jy Vir Dewie? and Laaitie Mettie Biscuits . And now he's starring in his first Showmax Original series, Spooksoeker , after the casting director, SAFTA-nominated actress Ira Blanckenberg, spotted him in Ken Jy Vir Dewie? at this year’s KKNK and invited him to audition. Spooksoeker follows the story of a teenage boy suddenly thrust into the world of the supernatural. He must quickly learn how to banish ghosts to save his town, friends, and family. Spooksoeker is currently streamimg on Showmax. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E22 · Mon, December 02, 2024
S2 22 International Emmy for SA Animation Directors with Jac Hamman
What do you think? let us know For a second year in a row, South Africans took home the prize at the International Emmys held recently in New York. Cape Town based directors Jac Hamman and Sarah Scrimgeour won in the Kids:Animation category for their work on the BBC animated Christmas special, Tabby McTat . In 2023, the award was won by The Smeds and The Smoos , directed by Daniel Snaddon and Samantha Cutler. In this episode Gino ventures into the world of animation with Jac via Zoom “Growing up you always dream of winning one of these awards but it seems so impossible,” says Jac. “You don’t imagine as a South African you can reach that level so it feels great to win after all the hard work. We’re very proud of the team.” Tabby McTat is set on the streets of London and follows the story of a musical cat and Fred, a gifted busker, and their warm, amazing friendship. Narrated by Jodie Whittaker ( Doctor Who ), the heartfelt story stars the voice talents of Rob Brydon ( Barbie ), Sope Dirisu ( Slow Horses ) and Susan Wokoma ( Enola Holmes ). "After two years of hard work, it was tough not being able to watch the premiere on the BBC,” says Sarah. “So, it’s fantastic that it’s now on Showmax and everyone we know can finally see it.” Purr-fect! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E21 · Mon, November 25, 2024
S2 21 A Masterclass with Nambitha Ben-Mazwi
What do you think? let us know Nambitha Ben-Mazwi is the first South African to notch up 6 international Netflix credits; a testament to her star quality. Nambitha has been working as an actress and broadcaster since 2007. In this episode we get some insight into just what makes her such a successful performer as we join Lady Nam for her Showmax Masterclass. Nambitha’s acting career began with a notable role as Unathi Mweli in the Mzansi Magic mystery drama Doubt . This role set the stage for her future successes in the South African entertainment industry. In 2017, she gained significant recognition for her role as Lulama in the e.tv telenovela Broken Vows , which showcased her ability to portray complex characters. That same year, she appeared in the BET miniseries Madiba as Nandi, adding to her diverse acting portfolio. Her international experience included a role as Tamara in the U.S. series Black Mirror , highlighting her adaptability and global appeal. A career highlight was when Lady Nam featured in Beyonce's Black Is King musical film and visual album. She was handpicked for the big project, a clear indication that nothing is impossible. Nambitha intends to use her career to enhance the lives of other women. As a result, she started She Speaks in 2018, which is a woman empowerment program that promotes self-love. You can catch Lady Nam starring as Ndoni Themba in Showmax's Empini. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E20 · Mon, November 11, 2024
S2 20 - How To Market A Mzansi Magic Reality Show
What do you think? let us know Many of you out there are under the not unreasonable impression that Gino does nothing but sit and watch TV all day. This is not true, he also does actually do some work and in fact has just got back from a production shoot at the coast for an upcoming reality show. From pitch to production, concept to completion, Gino takes you through the whirlwind that is marketing reality shows for a major broadcaster. So next time you pass a billboard advertising an exciting new show, you'll have some idea just what went into getting that shot. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E19 · Mon, November 11, 2024
S2 19 Promax, Tyler Perry and Martha Stewart
What do you think? let us know We all know Gino's stand on Tyler Perry, so you're maybe asking yourself WTF is going on with Beauty in Black? In this episode Gino gets into just what is happening with his latest TV offering. Oh the allure of the strip club! Are awards worth it, what do they actually mean? And what about the award ceremonies? The local Promax Awards get's its own special review with a swipe at the SA Podcast Awards thrown in. Gino also discovers that old jailbird Martha Stewart. And some thoughts about scoring reviews. Keep it real and keep binging. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E18 · Mon, November 04, 2024
S2 18 Marié Botha on “Magpie” (The Penguin)
What do you think? let us know " Hi I'm Magpie, like the bird..." says a distorted voice through a small hole in a wall. A wall in Arkham, the Batman world's infamous mental hospital. Why do you care? Because this voice is not your average American actress but that of our very own Marié Botha. In a link up to New York, Gino gets to chat to Pretoria born actress Marié Botha who plays “Magpie” in The Penguin. A spin-off of The Batman franchise that focuses on ‘Oswald Cobb’ (The Penguin) and his rise as a villain, currently on Showmax. Aided by her father, Marié left South Africa at the tender age of 18 to chase her dream. She studied acting at New York University’s famous Tisch School of the Arts. From there she enrolled in the masters programme at Yale School of Drama, as one of only 17 students in her class, selected from thousands. In 2017, during her third year at Yale, Marié was cast in the very first production and workshop of “Slave Play” by Jeremy O’ Harris, playing the part of Alana. It was a huge success and Jeremy took it to the New York Theater Workshop Off-Broadway, where it was met with wide acclaim and also sparked some backlash due to its controversial nature. It then went on to Broadway, where it was nominated for 12 Tony awards, which was a record at the time. She has featured in Off-Broadway and regional theatre productions, indie films, commercial voice-over work and countless auditions. She also came back to South Africa in 2012 briefly to play in the TV series Erfsondes. Having lived in New York for 14 years now, does Marié consider herself a New Yorker or South African? “It is lore that you have to have lived in New York for 11 years before you can call yourself a New Yorker, and I’ve done 14,” she explains. Stlll, a Boeremeisie in Arkham- who'd a thought it? Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E17 · Mon, October 28, 2024
S2 17 Kelsey Egan on “The Fix” (Showmax)
What do you think? let us know Kelsey Egan is a multi-SAFTA nominated, American-South African writer, director and performer. She joins us all the way from London via Zoom and Gino got to talk about her latest work, the action sci-fi horror The Fix, which premieres on Showmax this Halloween. Kelsey grew up in Wisconsin, USA, where she learned to ride horses and value good weather. She graduated from college in 2005 with General Honours and BA degrees in Neuroscience & Behaviour and Drama. Her directing thesis received the Molly Thacher Kazan Memorial Prize for distinction in the theatre arts. She subsequently tumbled onto various short film and features sets in New York City, which led to setting up a feature in Beijing. In May 2007, Kelsey moved to South Africa. After four years living in Johannesburg, she set up her production company, Crave Pictures, in Cape Town. In addition to writing and directing, Kelsey has worked professionally as a stunt performer, AD, producer, VFX producer and actress. Her credits include Warrior, Raised by Wolves , Bloodshot , Maze Runner: The Death Cure , The Dark Tower, The Crown , Eye in the Sky , The Giver , Zulu , Mad Max: Fury Road , Strike Back and District 9. Kelsey’s experience across multiple departments broadens her scope as a filmmaker. Kelsey’s directorial debut – Gargoyle – was nominated for a 2010 South African Film & Television Award for Best Short. Her first feature, Glasshouse , premiered at the 25th Fantasia International Film Festival in 2021, with a U.S. premiere at Fantastic Fest. Kelsey talks to us about her work, her travels, and of course The Fix , her latest film, set in Cape Town with large scale stunts and over 600 VFX shots. Considering it was first written in 2013, Kelsey seems to have had a good idea what was coming to the world in 2020. Don't miss The Fix on Showmax, Thursday 31 October, Halloween. Dig out one of your old masks... Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E16 · Mon, October 21, 2024
S2 16 What To Study When You Want A Career In Media
What do you think? let us know Social Media - for some a way of life, while for others, an uphill struggle to keep up with the constantly changing digital platforms. What to post, when to post it. What is SEO? Do I need it? How do I keep up? That's when you need a social media manager. This week finds Gino chatting to Tanya Maswaure, assistant lecturer at Gino's old alma mater, Rhodes University, about studying Multimedia, Social Media Management and all that that entails, as well as what has changed since he was there. Tanya is a passionate Journalist, creator, and Assistant Lecturer at Rhodes University's School of Journalism and Media Studies. As a Rhodes University scholar, she has cultivated her skills over 5+ years, evolving into an accomplished writer, captivating Public Speaker, and versatile Content Creator. This extends to hosting 'What's Happening Africa with Tanya,' a vibrant weekly news series that delves into the latest events and narratives shaping our remarkable continent. Her driving force lies in advocating for African development, celebrating the role of technology, and amplifying the influence of women in propelling Africa's advancement. And in other news African Couch Potato has been announced as a finalist in the South African Podcast Awards, 2024, in the Music and Entertainment section. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E15 · Mon, October 14, 2024
S2 15 New On Netflix
What do you think? let us know Finally, there is something to watch on the world’s biggest streamer! In this episode Gino tells it like it is about 5 surefire watch or don't watch titles on Netflix, plus a number of others that he has only started watching (so, a bit early to rate). The Menedez Brothers - In 1996, the Menendez brothers faced trial for killing their parents, a case that captivated America. Years later, they share their side through interviews with those involved, offering a fresh take on the events. Tim Dillon: This is Your Country - Comedian Tim Dillon chats with everyday Americans about cryptocurrency, OnlyFans and other outrageous issues they face in this comedy unscripted special . Nobody Wants This - Follows the unexpected relationship between a rogue rabbi and an irascible, loud, agnostic woman. The Platform 2 - A thrilling physical journey that allows an approach to the darkness, where it is scary to look. It appeals to the viewer's civil responsibility and forces them to face the limits of their own solidarity. It's What's Inside - A group of friends gather for a pre-wedding party that descends into an existential nightmare when an estranged friend arrives with a mysterious game that awakens long-hidden secrets, desires, and grudges. Blood Legacy starring Enhle Ali Wong with Single lady Rachel Bloom: Death, Let Me Do My Show Deon Cole with Ok, Mister Then last but not least, cancelled or not, Ellen DeGeneres is there For Your Approval . Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E14 · Mon, October 07, 2024
S2 14 - Anelisa Phewa on Law, Love and Betrayal (LLB) on Showmax
What do you think? let us know Shakespeare wrote "All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players", and we were lucky enough to get one of them for this episode. Gino spends time with actor, musician and dancer Anelisa Phewa, talking Shakespeare, philosophy and of course the gripping legal drama Law, Love & Betrayal , now streaming on Showmax. In Law, Love & Betrayal, Anelisa, known for his performances in iThemba , Unmarried , and Soon Comes the Night, as well as Sifiso in 7de Laan , portrays the sharp and cunning lawyer, James Makaula. This character is a tribute to his own father, a real-life lawyer, which adds an emotional depth to his performance. For the last 4 years, Anelisa has been giving back as Founder, Consultant, Educator & Performance Coach for Dramatec: South Africa’s Premier Acting Consultancy, specialising in performance enhancement theory within the Television and Film industry. As Shakespeare said, "They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts". Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E13 · Mon, September 30, 2024
S2 13 - What's Good On Disney?
What do you think? let us know In S2 Episode 7, we reviewed what was new on Africa’s biggest streamer, Showmax. In S2 Episode 11, we checked out what NOT to watch on the world’s biggest streamer, Netflix. And, in this episode, Gino gives you the lowdown on what's on the world’s most ignored streaming platform, Disney. Free Guy - When Guy, a bank teller, learns that he is a non-player character in a bloodthirsty, open-world video game, he goes on to become the hero of the story and takes the responsibility of saving the world. The Secrets of Hillsong - Exploring one of America's most successful megachurches and the investigative reporting that lead to the dismissal of two prominent pastors. How to Die Alone - Melissa is a neurotic fat black woman who has never been in love, but after a brush with death she refuses to settle for anything less than the life she wants, leading her to become "that bitch" no matter what. Child Star - Examine how some of the most well-known former child stars, such as Lovato, deconstruct the highs and lows of growing up in the spotlight and how their ascension to fame, riches, and power affects their futures. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes - Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he's been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike. The Bear - A young chef from the fine dining world returns to Chicago to run his family's sandwich shop. Dear Mama - A documentary series which follows the life and legacy of Tupac Shakur and his mother, the Black Panther activist Afeni Shakur. Lance - A personal examination of the rise and fall of Lance Armstrong. Deadpool - A wisecracking mercenary gets experimented on and becomes immortal yet hideously scarred, and sets out to track down the man who ruined his looks. Monsters - This is not on Disney but on Netflix. Second of an an anthology series, centered on the stories of cannibalistic serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer and convicted murderers Lyle and Erik Menendez. So, the question is: Do you get a Disney subscriptiion or do you rather borrow someone else's login details? Your call! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Fi
S2 E12 · Mon, September 23, 2024
S2 - 12 SAFTAs Edition: 2024 Nominees
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino (a past SAFTA Winner) takes a look at some of this year's nominees from the local film and television industry’s most prestigious event: the South African Film and Television Awards. Here are the categories covered, you have to listen to find out who the nominees are. 1. Best Achievement in Sound - Documentary Best Achievement in Editing - Documentary Best Achievement in Cinematography - Documentary Best Achievement in Directing - Documentary Best Documentary Short Best Made for TV Documentary or Documentary Series Best Children's Programme 2. Best Supporting Actress in a TV Soap Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soap Best Actress in a TV Soap Best Actor in a TV Soap Best Actress in a Telenovela Best Actor in a Telenovela 3. Best TV Soap Best Telenovela Best Supporting Actress in a TV Drama Best Supporting Actor in a TV Drama Best Actress in a TV Drama Best Actor in a TV Drama Best TV Drama Best Actress in a TV Comedy Best Actor in a TV Comedy Best TV Comedy Best Short Film For more about the SAFTAs and the rest of the nominations check out The NFVF website. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E11 · Mon, September 16, 2024
S2 11 - Nothing On Netflix? Some Hits and Misses From The World’s Biggest Streamer
What do you think? let us know Nothing on Netflix? - No, actually there's lots, but is it always worth it. In this episode Gino takes a trawl through what's good and what really isn't. Madame Web - Cassandra Webb is a New York metropolis paramedic who begins to demonstrate signs of clairvoyance. Wang In There, Baby! - Phil Wang riffs on reheated rice, octopus intelligence and the importance of fact-checking in this special filmed at Shakespeare's Globe in London. Deon Cole - Cole Hearted - Deon Cole explains the right time to thank Jesus and the wrong time to say "welp." Piano Love - a vibrant story of love, ambition, and the unifying power of music, set against the backdrop of the wildly popular Amapiano genre. Losing Lerato 2 - continues the gripping story of a father's desperate attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter Chestnut vs Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef - hot dog-eating champion Joey Chestnut faces off against rival Takeru Kobayashi in the ultimate wiener-takes-all competition. Why Him? - A holiday gathering threatens to go off the rails when Ned Fleming realizes that his daughter's Silicon Valley millionaire boyfriend is about to pop the question. The Deliverance - An Indiana family discovers strange, demonic occurrences that convince them and their community that the house is a portal to hell. Worst Ex Ever - Exposes the disturbing realities of monstrous past relationships, tapping into the universal fear of not truly knowing one's partner. Rebel Ridge - An ex-Marine grapples his way through a web of small-town corruption when an attempt to post bail for his cousin escalates into a violent standoff with the local police chief. Agree? Disagree? Let us know, we're not scared. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E10 · Mon, September 09, 2024
S2 10 - Wanda Mkhize on Freevision and Afroland
What do you think? let us know A new platform is in town and we want to know all about it. freevision provides an all-in-one streaming experience of current affairs, entertainment, sports, info-and-edutainment, live! and on demand. Keep up with your favourite tv channels and tune in to your loved radio stations from any internet enabled device at no subscription cost, no decoder and with no hassle. In this episode, Gino chats to Wanda Mkhize about freevision and freevision play. Wanda is a notable figure in the broadcasting and telecommunications industry in South Africa. Currently, she is associated with Sentech, the state-owned company that provides electronic communications network services for the South African broadcasting and communications industry. She is championing the rollout of freevision and freevision play, the single application for all your content needs. freevisionplay can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and or IOS App store onto your mobile phone. You can also access freevisionplay from your PC, visit www.freevisionplay.co.za . The freevisionplay App is also available on Android TV to enjoy at home on the big screen. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
Mon, September 02, 2024
S2 09 Vuyo Dabula on The Butcher's Soul (Showmax)
What do you think? let us know Back on your screens in a big way is Vuyo Dabula, as Saul in The Butcher's Soul now on Showmax and Gino had the chance to catch up with the model-turned-actor. Vuyo had been off the scene for a while after being shot in 2022, but now he is back. He is most famous for his role of Kumkani Phakade in the SA soapie, Generations . Vuyo also appeared in Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) and he played the lead in the 2017 film Five Fingers for Marseille . Vuyo starred as Shandu, a spy turned rebel as well as a love interest to Pearl Thusi's character in Netflix's first African original series, Queen Sono . The Butcher's Soul on Showmax finds Vuyo playing Saul, a mafia-styled, well-connected businessman who puts profit over people. In case you didn't know, in 2016, Daily Sun announced Vuyo as the sexiest man in the country. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E8 · Mon, August 26, 2024
S2 08 Beáta Bena Green on Wyfie (Showmax) & Her Booming Career
What do you think? let us know It being Women's month here in SA, Gino has been chatting to various ladies; this week it is the turn of Beáta Bena Green. Beáta is a South African actress, model, and entrepreneur. She was crowned Miss Teen South African 2013 but she is best known for playing Shady in the award winning South African Soapie, 7de Laan , Sienna in the international production, Deep State, and Kim Claasen in Kyknet & Kie's Telenovela Arendsvlei . She joins us online from Cape Town. Beáta began her career in the limelight In 2013, when she was crowned Miss Teenager South Africa. In 2017, she won the provincial category at Miss Mamelodi Sundowns. Then in 2020, she participated in Miss South Africa. She made her television debut in 2018 and has not looked back. You can also catch Beáta in Showmax's W yfie as she returns for season 2 as Shay. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E7 · Mon, August 19, 2024
S2 07 What's New On Showmax?
What do you think? let us know In this week's episode, Gino's bad knee forces him onto the couch where he gives you a run down of what shows and movies have just landed on Africa's biggest streamer. 016FM To save their community radio station from closing, two polar opposite DJs prepare to compete in a radical, live on-air program battle - unaware that a syndicate has infiltrated the station. The Butcher's Soul Mthunzi, a 36-year-old butcher, and his loving wife Lesedi have organised a birthday celebration for their daughter, Boitumelo. The warmth of the celebration is shattered when Lesedi admits to witnessing a crime involving her client. The Dark Side of Glory Unravelling the shocking cases of murder in the sporting world. Love Undercover Pro athletes have it all: extreme wealth, adoring fans, lavish lifestyles. Fame and fortune can come at the price of true love. 5 international soccer stars are going undercover in the US to find love for who they are, not what they have. One Weeks A feel-good family show centered on Fana, a rough-around-the edges man from Soweto, who is clearly punching above his weight when he finds himself dating Lihle, a successful lawyer. Other productions not reviewed include: Wyfie Eksie Perfeksie Big Brother (S9) Uxolo Daar’s Bloed The Blackening Today's lesson is: make the most of things - if you have a sore knee - get binging Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E6 · Mon, August 12, 2024
S2 06 - True Crime SA Podcast with Nicole Engelbrecht
What do you think? let us know Staying with True Crime, this episode finds Gino chatting via Zoom to True Crime South Africa 's creator and host Nicole Engelbrecht. Nicole's podcast delves into South African true crime cases, both solved and unsolved. She meticulously researches each case using media coverage, trial footage, social media sources, and often interviews individuals involved. Her work aims to bring awareness to these cases and restore humanity to the victims of these crimes. True Crime South Africa consistently charts as South Africa’s most popular true crime podcast even among international offerings, and in 2021, Business Insider ranked the podcast as the 5th most listened to podcast overall in SA. In the hopes of growing the true crime space in South Africa, Nicole actively mentors other true crime creators to help them create their own podcasts and YouTube channels. She also partners with selected production companies to work on influencer campaigns for documentaries and television series that align with her victim-focused style of true crime content creation, and she pioneered the first companion podcast of its kind with Showmax in 2021: the award winning, Devilsdorp: The Official Companion Podcast . More recently she created the companion podcast for Catch Me A Killer. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E5 · Mon, August 05, 2024
S2 05 - Warren Gray on Production Design
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino continues with our link to Showmax's Catch Me A Killer , as he chats to the hit show's Production Designer, Warren Gray. Born in Cape Town, Warren earned a bursary while studying industrial design and qualified in 2000 at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He has since won multiple awards and was accepted into the British Film Designers Guild in 2023. He has achieved international recognition through his work on Diamond Status (2023), Catch Me a Killer (2023), Pirates of Somalia (2017), The Forgiven (2017) and Noem my Skollie (2016), amongst others. Warren has recently returned from LA, where he accepted the award for Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design for the Jada Pinkett Smith's Netflix docuseries African Queens: Njinga . Warren talks about the challenges he faces with each job, like having to build three blocks of houses for Long Walk to Freedom , half a yacht from stem to stern for the SoCal rescue series Saf3 , and tells Gino all about filming inside South Africa's infamous Pollsmoor Maximum Security Prison. Don't forget to vote for us in the African Podcast and Voice Awards Go to: https://awards.apva.africa/voting/ Choose the podcast category Find the Lifestyle and Entertainment segment Click on it and vote for us (Option 4) Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E4 · Mon, July 29, 2024
S2 04 - Drama Therapy with Minenhle Msane
What do you think? let us know Many of us have heard of Art Therapy; using art to work through problems and issues, but how many of you know about Drama Therapy? In this episode Gino talks to Minenhle Msane who is busy studying for her Honours in Drama Therapy. The use of theatrical techniques to promote healing, foster change, and develop personal growth has been around since the 60s but has only recently been acknowledged. It is often incorrectly assumed to be limited to children or actors when in fact it can serve as a safe space to use people's creative problem-solving skills, to pretend, and tap into their childlike imagination. Minenhle talks about how, after graduation, she has plans to take this creative therapy to children and adults and also into prisons. Don't forget to vote for us in the African Podcast and Voice Awards Go to: https://awards.apva.africa/voting/ Choose the podcast category Find the Lifestyle and Entertainment segment Click on it and vote for us (Option 4) Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E3 · Mon, July 22, 2024
S2 03 - The Birthday Episode! A Year of Podcasting & Our First Nomination
What do you think? let us know Happy birthday to us, Happy birthday to us, Happy birthday African Couch Potato - the Mash-Up, Happy birthday to us. A year of lessons and laughing. A look back on the year that was and a look forward to the future. We also celebrate our very first nomination, and it's from across the continent. Our first nomination - we are finalists in the African Podcast and Voice Awards so please vote for us. It's really easy. Go to: https://awards.apva.africa/voting/ Choose the podcast category Find the Lifestyle and Entertainment segment Click on it and vote for us (Option 4) We take a look at how it all started and how far we have come over the last year, followed by all the stats for African Couch Potato - the Mash Up. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E2 · Mon, July 15, 2024
S2 02 - Angela Sithole on Empini (Showmax), Savage Beauty (Netflix) and Everything Else
What do you think? let us know This week's episode finds Gino sitting down with an actress who has gone through more roles than Connie Ferguson. Born of a Zulu mother and an Italian father in 1993, she was raised by her mother, who instilled in her a strong sense of self-worth and resilience. Angela Sithole has certainly made her mark on the South African film and TV landscape. She currently stars as Winnie Bhodoza in the Showmax Original Empini . Many of you may also recognise her as Thando in the Netflix African Original Savage Beauty . Angela's career kicked off in 2015 when, after a guest role on Isibaya , she landed the part of Terry on Mzanzi Magic's Zabalaza , where she impressed the viewers and critics with her complex and charismatic character portrayal. In 2016, Angela got her second major role as Tai Chi or Angel on the eKasi Plus drama series Hustle . She played a young and ambitious singer and successfully showcased her singing and dancing skills, as well as her ability to handle emotional scenes. In 2017, Angela joined the cast of the Mzansi Magic drama The Queen , where she appeared in four seasons of the show and earned praise for her villainous role. The crime drama series Diamond City followed in 2018, and then in 2019, Angela made her film debut in the romantic comedy All About Love , where she shared the screen with Katlego Danke and Chris Attoh, two of the most prominent actors in Africa. She played Minky in the 2019 film Knuckle City . Numerous roles followed and Angela turned up in the e.tv soapie Imbewu: The Seed , the SABC2 telenovela Lithapo , Savage Beauty and Lingashoni . In April 2023, she joined the e.tv series Smoke And Mirrors . In her chat with Gino, the still-young actress shares how her mother has and still does actively support her in her far-from-over career. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S2 E1 · Mon, July 08, 2024
S2 01 - The Real Killer Catcher: Micki Pistorius
What do you think? let us know Welcome to African Couch Potato season 2. In this episode Gino goes full fanboy as he gets the chance to chat to Dr Micki Pistorius, advisor for the TV adaptation of her autobiographical Catch Me a Killer . This hit true crime TV series is based on cases worked on by Micki in the 1990s in her role as forensic psychologist and South Africa's first police profiler. It stars British actress Charlotte Hope as Micki. As a child Micki always wanted to be a writer. She matriculated in Pretoria, with Afrikaans, English, Maths, History, Bible Studies and German as her selected subjects. She enrolled for a BA at the University of Pretoria and studied Afrikaans and English literature, French, Criminology and Psychology. She embarked upon a career as journalist and covered various stories for the SABC. She also worked for a number of local publications. Her journalistic career spanned a decade, when she heeded the calling to become a psychologist. Immediately upon qualifying in 1994 she joined the SA Police Service as a profiler, where she hunted criminals for another decade. She obtained her Doctorate’s degree and achieved international acclaim in this field and travelled to Britain, Scotland, USA, France and Hungary. The success of Catch Me A Killer has brought Dr Pistorius back into the world of crime. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E52 · Mon, July 01, 2024
52 - Scriptwriting with Khanyani Luhlongwane
What do you think? let us know In 2021 the MultiChoice Talent Factory South Africa Scriptwriting Incubator hosted 12 interns who would be mentored by Tshedza Pictures in association with the Wits University Film & Television Department and included practical workplace experience over the course of 12 months, with a mixture of virtual and physical sessions. One of those interns was Khanyani Luhlongwane, and this week Gino sits down with this talented writer to talk all things storylining and scriptwriting. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E51 · Mon, June 24, 2024
51 - Job Seeker: Ofentse Mojapelo
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino takes on the role of job interviewer with AFDA graduate Ofentse Mojapelo in the hot seat. Ofentse studied Motion Picture Medium (Television Production) at AFDA from 2016, majoring in TV Directing, Writing & Producing, graduating in 2019. Taking a break from television production, she completed her Bachelor of Laws degree before taking up a position at Red Pepper as a technical director for Big Brother Mzansi Season 3. In 2022 she won a Netflix Scholarship. As well as her television talents, Ofenste also runs her own clothing company, The Naked Line. Ofentse says "I am intentional in bringing my talents to work and my skills sets as they will get sharper through every experience and every opportunity given." Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E50 · Mon, June 17, 2024
50 - Comedy With Dave Levinsohn
What do you think? let us know Dave Levinsohn's on-the-spot skills often make it look like he’s making it up as he goes... that’s because he is! This week Gino has a front row seat with one of SA's top comedians. Find out how far Dave will go, why he likes it when people don't laugh and how not to introduce him at your braai. This popular and original comedian has been honing his skills as the host at the Coffee Lounge comedy club since 1997, and is a regular face at the Vodacom International festival and the Smirnoff comedy festival. Television viewers are familiar with Dave's quirky, irrepressible humour from his ‘Big Black Box’ ads, or as the zany co-presenter in the first series of the SABC's ‘Going Nowhere Slowly’, as well as a character (and writer) in the latest “Tonight with Trevor Noah Show”, (MNet). On the comedy stage, his material darts into more lateral territory... With his "slightly-weird-guy-next-door" approach to every subject under the sun, Dave is odd, without being offensive. His anarchic re-examination of everyday topics has won him fans at every appearance, as does his ability to improvise when interacting with the crowd. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E49 · Mon, June 10, 2024
49 - Broadcasting with Lebang Kgosana
What do you think? let us know Award winning broadcaster and creative momtrepreneur Lebang Kgosana joins us this week for some insight into her 15 years of experience in the media and entertainment industries. With a degree in Marketing and Communications, followed by her training at the YFM Academy, Lebang’s expertise includes advertising, broadcasting, and events management. Lebang began her career at the Creative Counsel where she was an account manager, branched into broadcasting at YFM where she was a presenter and producer, and went on to content produce an array of TV shows on eTV and Channel O before starting her creative agency, BBB Media. She also did time at Cliff Central. She is passionate about positive and present parenting and is the host of a weekly podcast #LifeWithLebang, which in 2023 received recognition and acclaim at the African Podcast Awards, where it was honored with the Podcast of the Year Award. Her brand is all about family, positivity, relationships, and parenting lifestyle. The HipHopMom is on air with “TheFreeLunch”. Monday to Friday from 12 - 3pm on 919fm. She is definitely loudly and proudly South African. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E48 · Mon, June 03, 2024
48 - Showmax - Chasing the Sun 2, Empini, The Ultimate Girls Trip
What do you think? let us know We take a break from in-studio guests to have a look at Showmax. This is what to check out on Africa’s biggest streamer. Chasing the Sun 2 The Springbok journey to the Rugby World Cup final 2023. Empini Set against the backdrop of the dangerous private security industry, Empini is a high-stakes drama that follows Ndoni Themba, a deeply troubled private security bodyguard on a quest for answers. The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip SA Various members of the "Real Housewives" franchise from across South Africa get together on a luxurious Jamaican getaway, filled with unexpected friendships, fun in the sun and plenty of drama. And two extras that Showmax managed to get out before the other leading streamers. Oppenheimer Barbie Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E47 · Mon, May 27, 2024
47 - Directing Films With Mandla Dube
What do you think? let us know In today's episode we reach new heights when Gino gets the opportunity for a one on one with the legendary Mandlankayise Walter Dube. Director, producer, co-screenwriter, Mandla (to his friends) is a writer and award-winning South African cinematographer. His diverse work includes documentaries, shorts, theatre and feature films. Mandla’s work in feature films includes Tsotsi , The Italian Job , Strike Back , Silverton Siege, Angel Heart , and Heart of the Hunter. His 2017 feature film, Kalushi won Best Film of South Africa and Best Original Song at the RapidLion Film Festival, and also won the Chairman’s Award at the Zanzibar International Film Festival. Mandla has also served as a lecturer in cinematography at both Wits Television and Tshwane University of Technology. He holds a Masters of Fine Arts in the same from the American Film Institute in L.A. Mandla is currrently busy with Yasuke. the story of the only person of African ancestry to have reached the rank of samurai. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E46 · Mon, May 20, 2024
46 - SAFFA South Africa Stunts (Katja Hopkins and Craig Macrae)
What do you think? let us know Ever wondered who takes the leap off a building or crashes cars in movies while the stars take the credit? That’s the work of a stuntman. Special effects teams, directors, and cameramen all rely on the expertise of stuntmen to realize their creative ambitions.This collaboration creates the pulse-pounding moments that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. In this episode Gino gets an insight into the world of these unsung heroes. We chat via Zoom to Katja Hopkins and Craig MacRae of Cape Town's Titan Stunts about their stunt careers and their launching of the very first SAFFA Stunt Awards, recognising, appreciating, and acknowledging the exceptional contribution stunt performers and co-ordinators bring to our screens. and. . . Action! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E45 · Mon, May 13, 2024
45 - Composing Music For Film and TV with Modia Shole
What do you think? let us know When you are watching stuff on the screen, big or small, there is one thing that tells you where you should be emotionally; tells you whether you should be sad, or happy, or terrrified. That is the score, the music that takes you on the emotional journey that you are watching. Today Gino finds out more about what goes into scoring music for television and film as he chats to Modiakgotla Keatile Shole, better known as Modia. Modia, who holds a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, began his music career producing ringtone's for his friends Twenty years later his music is heard on productions wherever you turn, including, 1802: Love Defies Time The Last Fight The Ground Beneath Her Feet Summertide and Lavish Check out Modia's insights into the world of film and tv scoring. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E44 · Mon, May 06, 2024
44 - Brett Morris and Just Now Jeffrey
What do you think? let us know We recently received a VIP invite to a preview screening of local movie Just Now Jeffrey . On the back of that, Gino now has the chance to chat to Brett Morris, co-director and co-writer of this coming of age South African comedy. Brett has had a long career as a creative in the advertising world, ranked in the top 5 by his peers. He is a published fiction, non-fiction and feature film script writer and shares his insights about cinema and just what it took to bring Just Now Jeffrey to the screen. Without wishing to give anything away, Just Now Jeffrey is set in South Africa, 1989 - against the backdrop of the final months of Apartheid and features a well known local ensemble cast. While the world was radically changing around him, teenager Jeffrey Greenbaum hardly noticed. He just needed to get laid. Jeffrey convinces his best pal Brad Berman, to help devise a strategy to lose their virginity before they finish high school. But things don't go as planned and Jeffrey and Brad soon become entangled in a crazy web of love, lust, videotape piracy, rugby violence, political protest and pornography. This unique and edgy coming of age story will no doubt touch your heart ... and your funny bone. On in local cinemas, give it a whirl. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E43 · Mon, April 29, 2024
43 - SABC TV Licences Competition Winner
What do you think? let us know On Spring Day, 1 September 2023 SABC TV Licences launched the Win A Holiday Experience competition campaign in an effort to encourage South African customers to pay (or renew) their TV Licences. For their efforts, customers would be rewarded with weekly prizes such as smart TVs, Bluetooth speakers, wireless headphones and laptops. This was done by a random selection automated by a dedicated microsite that was set up to monitor the competition entries. In order to qualify for the prizes, the customers needed to pay their TV Licence between 1 September 2023 and 15 December 2023. A random winner would be selected each week from the valid entries. To sweeten the deal, the overall winner for the competition would get to choose an international experience: either the Coachella music festival in California or a Bundesliga match in Germany. In this episode Gino chats to the winner of the grand prize, Thabo Batshe, who has just got back from California. We get to hear his experiences of winning a big competition and what it was like being whisked across the world to the U.S. Thabo is a Communication Assistant at one of the big banks and had never been overseas before. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E42 · Mon, April 22, 2024
42 - Writing Plays with Palesa Mazamisa
What do you think? let us know Former minister of Arts and Culture, Pallo Jordan, once called today's guest "a South African writer to look out for". Palesa Mazamisa is a published playwright, author and producer. Before entering the world of theatre and film, she worked in the publishing industry and has touched on journalism while remaining a human rights and gender activist. Palesa spent her childhood in The Netherlands before continuing her education in the US. From there she was "head hunted" back to South Africa. Following her passion for writing she turned to theatre and stories. Her short story ‘Kadra’s Decree’, published in Open: An anthology of writing by South Africa’s best women writers, was widely recognised for its subject matter of Female Genital Mutilation. Her short story ‘A Day In August’ was published in the literary anthology Botsotso 17 in 2016. Her play, the satirical Shoes & Coups: A Paradox of the Absurd won awards and is still used in coursework to this day. As she says, "the rest is history". Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E41 · Mon, April 15, 2024
41 - Princess Mhlongo on Inkabi (Netflix)
What do you think? let us know "This time around Gino hooks up with the producer of Netflix's Inkabi - who also happens to be an old school colleague, in the person of Princess Zinzi Mhlongo; both of them hailing from eMalahleni, Witbank in Mpumalanga. Her professional theatre directing debut was a production of And the Girls in Their Sunday Dresses presented at festivals in the UK. In 2010 she was selected to be one of 12 theatre producers from across the world to participate in the Theatre Foreman Festival in Germany. In 2012 she was awarded the Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year for Theatre, followed in subsequent years by 6 Naledi Theatre Awards nominations. Her work has taken her to the US among other countries. In 2016 she directed a new musical, Divas Of Kofifi based on the lives of Dorothy Masuku, Abigail Kubeka, and Thandi Klassen with sold-out shows. In 2017 - 2019 she explored music management working with one of the country's biggest stars, Samthing Soweto. In 2022 she produced The Black Circus of the Republic of Bantu which had an international tour in 2023. Princess is also the managing director of African Entertainers, a company that seeks to develop new voices in film and performance art. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E40 · Mon, April 08, 2024
40 - Thokoza Film-makers with CinemaTAKE
What do you think? let us know Three lucky kids from Thokoza will soon be winging their way to Portugal to represent South Africa as part of the CinemaTAKE filmmaking project. This week's episode finds Gino chatting to Emilie Demon and Mpumi Mcata (BLK JKS) from Cinema TAKE, an association born out of the friendship of film lover Emilie Demon and Muriel Huet, a presenter at the BFI (British Film Institute), among many other jobs, along with film director Mpumelelo Mcata. The association’s main objective is to bring cinema to the people of inner-city Johannesburg and to experience it differently: not just as a form of art, but also as an educational tool. Cinema TAKE (The Alternative Kinetic Experience) is where people can engage with films that may not otherwise be shown in mainstream cinemas. "This opportunity that CinemaTAKE has to work on film making and education, with the young people at Of Soul & Joy photography school in the Thokoza township of Johannesburg is beyond a dream come true and in some ways more than what any of us could have imagined. As we teach, we learn and grow, all together." Created in 1995, Cinema Cent Ans De Jeunesse offers an educational experiment with cinema. Each year participants set up training groups in schools and extracurricular environments where young people get the chance to work with cinema practitioners on a regular basis. The young students then get to show their work at a dedicated film festival in competition. "We are so excited to be the first African country to present the final filmic results of what has already been an incredible workshops experience and cinematic process for us, the guest lecturers and the absolutely brilliant kids, at the legendary Cinema Cent Ans De Jeunesse in Lisbon 2024." Watch this space! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E39 · Mon, April 01, 2024
39 - Post Production with Johnny Nkgapele (Gist Media)
What do you think? let us know This week Gino dives into the world of Post-Production, where all the component parts of a film or television programme are pulled together and given that extra polish that makes then stand out on our screens. To get more insight, Gino is chatting with Johnny Nkgapele. Having graduated at the University of Witwatersrand, Johnny wasted no time getting into the South African Film Industry. He started by editing LoveLife commercials and went on to editing reality shows and music videos, having worked on the SAFTA Award winning drama, When We Were Black. He continued to exploit his talent and was later nominated for SAFTA Best Editor in a Drama and the winning never stopped. Johnny started his own production company, Gist Media, in 2014 after leaving Multichoice (Channel O Africa department). "Eager to learn, I drew inspiration from companies like Apple, and decided to employ project management and workflow systems that enable us to always break through the clutter while also injecting some innovative pulse into our work", says Johnny. Gist Media brand has touched audiences on prominent channels locally and abroad, and in the process, has bagged two South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) nominations. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E38 · Mon, March 25, 2024
38 - Reality Shows with Portia Hlubi
What do you think? let us know Love it or hate it, there is no denying that reality TV has changed the face of popular viewing. In this week's episode, Gino chats to Portia Hlubi, the founder of @Milk and Honey TV - a Black - Female Creative Agency that has crafted a spectacular reputation for itself on Africa’s TV landscape. Portia began her career as a commissioning editor but has really established her career with her involvement in reality TV. Gino gets a first hand understanding of just how you go about finding the individuals you love or hate from the outrageous Real Housewives to the ups and downs of the Mseleku children. “I think we really are finding our voice and I wouldn’t want us to start trying new things when we’ve just loved ourselves on TV-seeing people that look like us, that sound like us. That’s what reality shows are supposed to do – to reflect society back to us and I think we’re doing that well,” says Portia. Portia directed the second season of The Real Housewives of Johannesburg , as well as of Lagos, of Abuja and of Nairobi , she co-created uThando Nesthembu’s fourth season and is the creator of Izingane Zesthembu and Ezomshado . She is also the force behind LaSizwe and Celebrity Mystery Box . Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E37 · Mon, March 18, 2024
37 - Peeling Potatoes: Revealing What Our Guests Have Been Up To
What do you think? let us know 37 episodes down the line and it is now a good time to catch up with the latest news about the raft of guests we have featured over the last 8 months. We have also included the link for each guest's episode, so you can easily refresh your memory as to what was going down back then. Guests: Sparky Xulu - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13356214 Jefferson Tshabalala - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13476229 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13510659 Shonisani Masutha - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13562280 Shalate Sekhabi - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13646493 Sanele Zulu - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13689455 Jack Devnerain - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13689455 Nolwazi Shange - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13778692 Siphiwe Hlabangane - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/13909098 Chad Pop - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/14034166 Mfanelo Njoko - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2220442/episodes/14077609 Princess Mahlangu NEXT! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E36 · Mon, March 11, 2024
36 - Local Is Lekker
What do you think? let us know With 2024 well and truly established, it is time for a quick look at what's been happening on our own proudly South African doorstep. Gino casts his eye over 15 local productions from this year that have hit our screens. We've also added a Noteworthy section of an additional 5 titles (not all local) that are worth a look. Youngins - Showmax Red Ink - Showmax A Soweto Love Story - Netflix Trading Places - Netflix Reyka 2 - Netflix Ekhaya Backpackers - Showmax The Mommy Club 2 - Showmax The Real Housewives of Durban, S4 - Showmax Big Brother Mzansi - with Lawrence Maleka - DStv Stream Widows Unveiled - Showmax Adulting 2 - Showmax Intlawulo - Showmax Forever Yena - Showmax Soon Comes Night - Netflix LOL: Last One Laughing South Africa - Prime Video Plus our Noteworthy section Mr and Mrs Smith - Prime Video Ted Lasso - Apple TV Thembi - Prime Video Asinamali - Netflix My Octopus teacher - Netflix Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E35 · Mon, March 04, 2024
35 - Set Design with Karabo Legoabe
What do you think? let us know As part of our ongoing journey through all aspects of Film, TV, Theatre and many other forms of media, Gino sits down with multi-award-winning production designer Karabo Legoabe. Karabo has a Naledi Award, an Independent Theatre Award and was listed as one of the Top 200 Young South Africans by Mail & Guardian in 2021. She studied drama at the National School of Arts then received her Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts Honours at Wits University majoring in Production Design and Arts Management. Her career as a designer spans more than 9 years. She has designed sets and costumes for various theatre and television productions produced by The Market Theatre, The Baxter Theatre, Soweto Theatre, The Dance Factory, Rainforest Productions, Imagine Creative and UJ Arts Centre. On top of all this she also manages all operations for the arts & culture department of UJ. Amazing! To name just a few of her most notable productions: Dying Screams of the Moon, written by Zakes Mda and directed by John Kani, Ingozi, a drama series on SABC 1, Ukutshona ko Mendi… Did we dance (Market Baxter Theatre) Poeto-Type and Secret Ballot (Kiri-Pink-Knob Productions) Asinamali, Thula Thula and 6 Characters in Search of an Author (Market Theatre), Ukhamba (short film by Imagine Creative) and What the Water Gave Me (UJ Arts Centre). Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E34 · Mon, February 26, 2024
34 - Chatting Wardrobe and Styling with Kari Sekati
What do you think? let us know Today, Gino chats to Kari Sekati, co-founder of Stage Fabrics, supplying wardrobe and styling to both individuals and the TV and Film industries. From single day shoots for an ad to months spent on the set of a feature film, it all seems a far cry from Kari's background of business management and property investment. Kicking off in 2017, Stage Fabrics was built on a friendship through school at LISOF. The two young women have business, marketing and more importantly fashion qualifications which became the foundation of the business. They have a profound array of experience in the styling and fashion field, including actual garment manufature, worked on TVC’s, Films, TV Shows, PR Shoots, Brand Marketing, Online and Social Media platforms, as well as for film study work. Kari talks about pre-and post-production and time on set including her memorable shoot with a lion. She shares advice for up and coming stylists, and successfully avoids the concept of Gino in a tank-top. STADIO Higher Education | Accredited Tertiary Education Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E33 · Mon, February 19, 2024
33 - Everything You Need To Know About Dubai and What To Watch While Traveling
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino relates the ups and downs of having a few days off in Dubai. With useful tips on where to shop, how to save money and the best way to get about, this episode is your one-stop advice shop. Established in the 18th century as a small fishing village, Dubai grew into a regional trading hub in the early 20th century and grew rapidly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries with a focus on tourism and luxury. It has the second-most five-star hotels in the world , as well as the tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, at 828 metres. Between eating, drinking, lounging in the pool and sleeping, Gino found time to get together three movie reviews while travelling to and from this popular tourist destinatioin. If, like Gino, you need to get a liquor licence, do it online at OnlinePortal (licensedxb.com) And as far as getting about is concerned use Careem, The everything app | Careem Gino's airline movie choices are Barbie , Mary J. Blige’s “Real Love” and Insidiuos: The Red Door. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E32 · Mon, February 12, 2024
32 - How Much Do Media People Make?
What do you think? let us know It's almost Valentine's Day and you still haven't got anything for your beloved. Better get a move on. But can you afford it? In this episode Gino looks at what you could or should be earning in the Media industry. The episode is divided into three categories: Creative, Marketing and Social Media. Within these categories, Gino talks about the remuneration for various job titles. These are further broken down into beginner's, medium experience and heavyweight salaries, as well as the difference between Cape Town and Johannesburg. The salary figures Gino talks about come from the digital communications recruitment agency, Ad Talent Africa, and should really be taken as a guide, rather than a definitive salary. As always it is up to you as to what you agree on with your employer. See the link below for the full Salary 2024 listing. Salary Survey 2024 - Ad Talent Africa Link to Pearl Shozi episode Buzzsprout Link to Chad Pop episode Buzzsprout Now, get out there and get that special someone something for Valentine's Day. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E31 · Mon, February 05, 2024
31 - Christian Speed Dating vs Fantasy
What do you think? let us know We have all heard of speed dating, but did you know that Christian speed dating was a thing? This week we are joined by Chantel Andile who tells us all about an upcoming event; Christian Speed Dating brought to you by Kingdom Matters. Chantel takes us through what's involved, how to get tickets, what's expected and why it's happening. Chantel is also into movie fantasy, her favourite at the moment being the Marvel Cinematic Universe which she is busy revisiting, following the MCU's timeline as opposed to release dates. Here's the MCU chronology if you feel the need to follow Chantel. Captain America: The First Avenger Captain Marvel Iron Man Iron Man 2 The Incredible Hulk Thor The Avengers Thor: The Dark World Iron Man 3 Captain America: The Winter Soldier Guardians of the Galaxy Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Avengers: Age of Ultron Ant-Man Captain America: Civil War Black Widow Spider-Man: Homecoming Black Panther Doctor Strange Thor: Ragnarok Ant-Man and the Wasp Avengers: Infinity War Avengers: Endgame Spider-Man: Far From Home Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings Eternals Spider-Man: No Way Home Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Thor: Love and Thunder Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 The Marvels So, which is your fav, DC or Marvel? Lets us know. Then, finally, Gino and Chantel talk about The Harder They Fall. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E30 · Mon, January 29, 2024
30 - How I Lost The Love Of My Life and 10 Heartbreaking Movies
What do you think? let us know Gino opens up about his biggest heartbreak and how he has since turned to soppy love movies when he faces tough times. Our story takes us back to 17 years ago with a boy who was cool in his school marimba band. At the same time there was a girl who was hot in her school marimba band. Like Romeo and Juliet they came together, although not in Verona, Italy, but at the National Marimba Competition held annually in Boksburg. A classic love story in the making. . . Gino's Hot Heartbreakers: The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) - A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional career The Notebook (2004) - An elderly man reads to a woman with dementia the story of two young lovers whose romance is threatened by the difference in their respective social classes. P.S. I Love You (2007) - A young widow discovers that her late husband has left her 10 messages intended to help ease her pain and start a new life. Moulin Rouge - A poor Bohemian poet in 1890s Paris falls for a beautiful courtesan and nightclub star coveted by a jealous duke. The Great Gatsby - A writer and wall street trader, Nick Carraway, finds himself drawn to the past and lifestyle of his mysterious millionaire neighbor, Jay Gatsby, amid the riotous parties of the Jazz Age. 6. Catch A Fire - A drama about terrorism in Apartheid-era South Africa, revolving around a policeman and a young man who carries out solo attacks against the regime. 7. The Truman Show - An insurance salesman discovers his whole life is actually a reality TV show. 8. Pearl Harbour - A tale of war and romance mixed in with history. The story follows two lifelong friends and a beautiful nurse who are caught up in the horror of an infamous Sunday morning in 1941. 9. Remember The Titans - The true story of a newly appointed African-American coach and his high school team on their first season as a racially integrated unit. 10. Precious - In New York City's Harlem circa 1987, an overweight, abused, illiterate teen who is pregnant with her second child is invited to enroll in an alternative school in hopes that she can re-route her life in a better direction. We hope these 10 titles will help you through those times when you need more than just a tissue. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato <a href='https:/
S1 E29 · Mon, January 22, 2024
29 - Do You Believe In Ghosts? Story Time With A Twist
What do you think? let us know Are you sitting comfortably? Because this episode is really three seperate sections all joined together by the supernatural. The first part tells the strange story of a young Emalahleni (Witbank) girl who kept appearing to strangers on the anniversary of her tragic passing. The second part is the story behind a documentary Gino discovered on Apple TV, about a poltergeist in north London, UK. And last but not least, just when you thought it was safe, Gino unleashes his Hot Horrors, a list of 10 movies that left him with the jitters. if you have your own list of horrors, feel free to email Gino on justginosa@gmail.com or head over to our African Couch Potato pages on social media to give us the details. Don't forget to send voicenotes of your movie recommendations in our DMs and we will play them on the show before the review. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E28 · Mon, January 15, 2024
28 - New Movies in 2024
What do you think? let us know Ok, enough of 2023, time to look ahead, but ask yourself, has Hollywood run out of fresh ideas? 2024 looks like a year of many familiar titles. . . This week Gino singles out some of the hot new releases coming at you in 2024. 1. Mean Girls , a remake of the 2004 comedy, came out just recently. 2. Argylle with John Cena, Dua Lipa and Samuel L. Jackson comes out in February. 3. Madame Web is from the Spiderverse and stars Dakota Johnson as the female hero who can see into the future. In March : 4. Dune: Part Two 5. Kung Fu Panda 4 6. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 7. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire . This time, instead of fighting each other, they may be on the same side against a deadly hidden threat that terrorises our world. In May : 8. The Fall Guy , Ryan Gosling stumbles onto our screens alongside Emily Blunt. 9. IF, A young girl begins to see everyone's imaginary friends who have been left behind as their real-life friends have grown up, with Ryan Reynolds… who also brings Emily Blunt with him. The end of May feels like deja vu because it’s just repeats, or adaptations. 10. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga , the prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road. 11. Garfield, The Talking Cat. 12. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes which follows War for the Planet of the Apes , where the chimpanzee leader, Caesar, died. In June : 13: Bad Boys 4 with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. 14. Inside Out 2 for the kiddies. 15. A Quiet Place: Day One which, despite being called ‘day one’, is actually the third instalment of the movie franchise and this time it stars Lupita Nyong’o. In July : 16. Despicable Me 4 kicks off the second half of 2024 when it gets released on the 3rd. 17. Deadpool 3 with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. In August : 18. Borderlands Kevin Hart gets up to mischief alongside Jack Black in this outer space action comedy. In September : 19. Beetlejuice 2 , with Michael Keaton still leading it, and, Tim Burton still directing it. 20. Transformers One with Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson and Laurence Fishburne. In October : 21. Joker: Folie a Deux , this time it is a musical. . . and the Joker has a girlfriend played by Lady Gaga. In November : 22. Venom 3 from the world of Spiderrman. 23. Gladiator 2 , wit h Denzel Washington joining the list of characters. In December : 24. The Karate Kid kicks its way back into our lives. 25. The Lord of the Rings: T
S1 E27 · Mon, January 08, 2024
27 - Best Black Comedies of All Time
What do you think? let us know There's nothing better thank kicking back and settling down with a great comedy, and so this week Gino runs through 20 of the greatest Black Comedies of All Time. And if that doesnt tickle your funny bone, there's two extras to get you laughing into 2024. Here we go! 1. Friday (1995) - Ice Cube, Chris Tucker and Nia Long 2. Coming to America (1988) 3. Barbershop (2002) - Ice Cube, Cedric the Entertainer and Eve 4. A Thin Line Between Love and Hate (1996) - Martin Lawrence, Lynn Whitfield and Bobby Brown 5. Life (1999) - Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence 6. Cool Runnings (1993) - The heroic Jamaican bobsled team 7. The Nutty Professor (1996) 8. White Men Can’t Jump (1992) - Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson 9. Rush Hour (1998) - Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan 10. Bad Boys (1995) - Martin Lawrence and Will Smith 11. Brown Sugar (2002) - Taye Diggs, who is in the Best Man 12. Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005) - Tyler Perry 13. I Think I Love My Wife (2007) - Chris Rock and Kerry Washington 14. Norbit (2007) - Eddie Murphy and Thandie Newton 15. Hitch (2005) - Will Smith 16. Fresh Prince of Bel-Air - also Will Smith 17. Central Intelligence (2016) - Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart 18. Blue Streak 19. About Last Night (2014) - Kevin Hart and Michael Ealy 20. ATL (2006) - TI 21. Drumline (2002) - Nick Cannon 22. Why Did I Get Married? (2007) Did we miss one? Let us know what you would have included. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E26 · Mon, January 01, 2024
26 - New Year's Special
What do you think? let us know Welcome to the first podcast of the year, on the first day of the year. 1 January 2024. Happy New Year to all of you, wherever you are. Let’s take a look at 2023. Episode 01 of African Couch Potato - the Mash-up entered the digital arena on the 18th of July, Nelson Mandela's birthday. It is now listened to from Johannesburg to San Francisco, from Toronto to Tokyo, Across Africa, the United States, through Europe and into Asia - not bad for six months. We are available on over 15 different streaming/podcast platforms and so far have featured 14 in-studio guests - not bad for six months. We already have a good list of recommendations from you, the listener, and we will get to them as soon as we can. Keep sending them in - it is good to keep Gino busy. Our local recommends while you are still doing the holiday vibe include: On Netflix , The Queenstown Kids Can You See Us Love, Sex and 30 Candles Miseducation, Netflix Runs In The Family Yoh! Christmas Magenta Coal Six In The City On Prime , My Girlfriend’s Father Courting Anathi The Honeymoon On Showmax Adulting 2 1802 We wish you all a very Happy New Year, and trust that one of your New Year's resolutions is to keep on binging. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E25 · Mon, December 25, 2023
25 - Best Christmas Movies
What do you think? let us know Welcome to the Christmas Edition of African Couch Potato: The Mash-up. Today is our 25th episode… on the 25th day of December! When Christmas lunch is done, and all the presents have been given or received, what better way than a movie to round off the day. So, to celebrate this time of year, Gino has selected a list of 25 feel good Christmas movies to snuggle up to with your loved ones. Chapter 1 On Netflix: 1. Yoh! Christmas (local, new) 2. Best. Christmas. Ever. 3. How To Ruin Christmas (3 seasons) 4. Christmas Flow (2021, three episodes) 5. Operation Christmas Drop (2020) 6. The Princess Switch (2018) 7. Catch Me If You Can (2002, Leonardo di Caprio and Tom Hanks) Chapter 2 On Showmax: 8. A Zulu Christmas 9. Gog’ Shezi’s Christmas 10. Merry Liddle Christmas Baby 11. The Live Series: A White Christmas 2 (stand-up comedy) 12. How The Grinch Stole Christmas 13. Friday After Next 14. The Best Man Holiday (2013, Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Terrence Howard and Regina Hall) Chapter 3 On Prime: 15. The Night Before (2015, Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Anthony Mackie) 16. Office Christmas Party (2016, Jason Bateman and Jennifer Aniston) 17. Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas (2013) 18. Home Alone (1990) 19. The Perfect Holiday (2007, Morris Chestnut) 20. Almost Christmas (2016, Gabrielle Union, Danny Glover, Omar Epps, Mo’Nique) 21. Die Hard (1988) Chapter 4 On Prime: 22. Love Actually (2003) 23. Gremlins (1984) 24. The Preacher’s Wife (1996, Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington) 25. Mr Bean’s Holiday (2007) Plus, as an extra present from us, we have added in 5 additional titles, especially for the kids. Chapter 5 1. Peppa Pig: Peppa’s Christmas and Other Stories (60 minutes) 2. Captain Underpants Mega Blissmas (2020) 3. Happy Holidays from Madagascar (2005, 4 episodes) 4. Kung Fu Panda: Holiday (2010, 26 minutes) 5. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020, Forest Whitaker) Enjoy your Christmas day and best wishes for the whole festive season. Additional music by Noel Mejia from Pixabay Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member
S1 E24 · Mon, December 18, 2023
24 - A Crazy TV Life with Zola Hashatsi
What do you think? let us know Zola Hashatsi is no stranger to controversy and the tabloids and he has made headlines for all the wrong reasons. This household name was recently accused of impersonating a medical practitioner at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital but the case was later withdrawn. Coincidently, In 2022, Zola revealed that he had decided to answer and accept the call to serve as a healer. Zola's performing career took off in 2006 when he started presenting on Craz-E. Soon after, he moved to Frenz-E before blooming into an actor on Rhythm City. In 2015, he hosted the tour show My Mzansi Adventure and co-hosted the celebrity magazine show Hush with Refilwe Modiselle. In this tell-all episode Zola opens up to us about what it was like being a child star and the transition from being in front of the camera to a behind-the-scenes role, which finds Zola currently acting as producer of The Morning Show on e.tv after parting ways with controversial TV channel, Moja Love. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E23 · Mon, December 11, 2023
23 - Masterclass with Pearl Shozi: Promos
What do you think? let us know Another episode, another Masterclass. This time we turn our attention to the frantic world of television promos, those mini promotional videos that get squashed in between the adverts. This episode finds Gino talking to Pearl Shozi, Executive Creative Director at Birthmark Agency, where he gets the lowdown on what it takes to produce those short trailers for all those TV shows. Originally from Durban, Pearl moved to the City of Gold in 2016 to expand on her video production career, starting out as a promo producer and working her way up to her current position of executive creative director. Since arriving in Jozi, she has worked for Kwese, Fox International and creative agency, Birthmark. When not churning out promos, Pearl is busy studying for a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) through the IMM Graduate School of Marketing. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E22 · Mon, December 04, 2023
22 - Rising Star: Mfanelo Njoko (Film to Kasi)
What do you think? let us know Gino first met Mfanelo Njoko in 2013 at Tulip High School where he was one of the participants in Gino's community journalism programme. Fast forward 10 years and Mfanelo is the proud founder of Film To Kasi - an initiative that screens films in townships across South Africa. In this episode Mfanelo speaks about the determination it took to get this project off the ground as well as the people that helped him along the way - including the Gauteng Film Commission. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E21 · Mon, November 27, 2023
21 - Masterclass with Chad Pop: Editing
What do you think? let us know In this episode, Gino chats to multi award nominee Chad Pop about editing, from his early days at AFDA to a six year stay at one of South Africa's top advertising agencies to finally stepping out into the big wide world with his own company. Chad was privileged to be nominated for Best Editor at the AFDA graduation awards as well as for the Rocket award at the 2017 Promax Africa Awards. In 2018 he was ranked number 11 in the Best Editor category by the Loeries Africa/Middle East Awards. Chad discusses the joys of being thrown in the directing deep-end, and the difficulties of changing from the fast paced styles of short-form television, like ads and promos, to the intricate nuances of long-form work, like movies and documentaries. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E20 · Mon, November 20, 2023
20 - Reviews From Every Platform
What do you think? let us know Gino takes a quick look at South Africa's streaming platforms and gives us a review on one production from each platform. 1. Spinners (Showmax) Ethan is a 17-year-old driver working for a local gang. Disgusted with gang life, Ethan discovers a possible way out via spinning, an extreme motorsport. But the looming gang war jeopardises that hope. 2. The Burial (Prime Video) Inspired by true events, a lawyer helps a funeral home owner save his family business from a corporate behemoth, exposing a complex web of race, power, and injustice. 3. Eurovision Song Contest - The Story of Fire Saga (Netflix) When aspiring musicians Lars and Sigrit are given the opportunity to represent their country at the world's biggest song competition, they finally have a chance to prove that any dream worth having is a dream worth fighting for. 4. Tetris (Apple TV) The story of how one of the world's most popular video games found its way to players around the globe. Businessman Henk Rogers and Tetris inventor Alexey Pazhitnov join forces in the USSR, risking it all to bring it to the masses. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E19 · Mon, November 13, 2023
19 - Masterclass with Banele P. Mtebele - Filmmaking
What do you think? let us know Bringing a list of even more films that Gino has not yet seen, Banele P. Mtebele runs several film clubs and a post-production suite called The Village Post Office. Banele talks of the importance of screening films to the community through his film club in Alex, as well as weekly film classes to inspired young would-be filmmakers. He also takes us through some of the films that have shaped his life growing up: Amores Perros (Life's a Bitch) by Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu A Reasonable Man by Gavin Hood One Flew Over a Cuckoo's Nest by Milos Foreman Tsotsi by Gavin Hood Don't Fvck with Me, I Have 51 Brothers and Sisters by Dumisani Phakathi and Mother by Bong Joon-Ho Banele has worked on Collision (Netflix); Nkalakatha - The Life of Mandoza (BET); Mother of All (eVod) and several reality shows and commercials. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E18 · Mon, November 06, 2023
18 - A Sit Down with Siphiwe Hlabangane
What do you think? let us know Gino first met Siphiwe Hlabangane in 2017, so now is a good time for a catch up. Join us as Siphiwe unpacks his career. A seasoned film and series producer, Siphiwe is best known for iNumber Number (series); Single Guyz (sitcom); Diamond City (drama); Lithapo (telenovela) and Shaina (film). More recently, he produced the critically acclaimed Savage Beauty on Netflix and is currently working on a romantic comedy for the same streaming platform that will come out next Valentine's Day. Siphiwe, fondly remembered as "Kolo Modise" on Muvhango (SABC 2), is also a skilled actor and workshop facilitator. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E17 · Mon, October 30, 2023
17 - What To Watch, EVERYWHERE
What do you think? let us know Today's episode counts down GIno's top 5 shows for the week on all video streaming platforms. Netflix: Nowhere - A young pregnant woman named Mia escapes from a country at war by hiding in a maritime container aboard a cargo ship. After a violent storm, Mia gives birth to the child while lost at sea, where she must fight to survive. Beckham - With never-before-seen footage, this docuseries follows David Beckham's meteoric rise from humble beginnings to global football stardom. Fair Play - An unexpected promotion at a cutthroat hedge fund pushes a young couple's relationship to the brink, threatening to unravel far more than their recent engagement. Sex Education - Season 4 of this hit comedy drama. Big Vape - The Rise and Fall of Juul - In this docuseries, a scrappy electronic cigarette startup becomes a multibillion-dollar company until an epidemic causes its success to go up in smoke. Apple TV+: Calls - Told through a series of interconnected phone conversations, it chronicles the mysterious story of a group of strangers whose lives are thrown into disarray in the lead-up to an apocalyptic event. The Afterparty - When a high school reunion's afterparty ends in a death, everyone is a suspect. A detective grills the former classmates one by one, uncovering potential motives as each tells their version of the story - culminating in the shocking truth. Platonic - Former childhood best friends reconnect as adults and try to get past the rift that led to their falling out. Stephen Curry: Underrated - The coming-of-age story of Stephen Curry, from an undersized basketball player at a small college, to becoming a larger-than-life NBA superstar. Messi Meets America - The career of Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer (MLS) and at Inter Miami CF. Showmax: Outlaws - Set in the lush but lawless land on the border between Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal, Outlaws is the story of two families at war with each other. Blessers - As a powerful CEO, with a big house, a successful spouse, a family and expensive recreational habits, Jacob feels like life will always be this easy. 3. Poppie Nongena - Based on Elsa Joubert's novel "The Long Journey of Poppie Nongena," regarded as one of the best African novels of the 20th century. Sew The Winter To My Skin - In a racially-charged and violent 1950's rural South Africa, a liberal journalist recounts the epic chase, edge-of-your-seat capture and intriguing trial of a flamboyant, native "Robin Hood". Mapimpi - Makazole Mapimpi stole the hearts and minds of South Africans after the country won the Rugby World Cup in 2019 because of the challenges he overcame to be the best in the game. Prime Video:
S1 E16 · Mon, October 23, 2023
16 - Masterclass with Nolwazi Shange - Casting Director
What do you think? let us know Nolwazi Shange is an actress who is equally comfortable both in front of the camera as talent, as well as behind it as a casting director. Gino chats to her about the fulfilment of both roles. She played the role of “Nandi” on Outlaws which is currently streaming on Showmax. You may have also seen her in Scandal! on eTV, in Mzali Wami on Showmax as well as in Intersexions: A Place Called Home, and in one of Gino's favourite films, Otelo Burning which came out in 2011. Nolwazi also talks about handling guns on set as well as letting us know her opinion on social media and going out in your gown. Don't do that! Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E15 · Mon, October 16, 2023
15 - Industry Insights with Jack Devnarain
What do you think? let us know Gino gets to chat to one of his childhood heros in the shape of Jack Devnarain. Jack studied Drama while completing his Law degree at the University of KZN, Durban. He joined the Police Force after completing his studies and spent 10 years as a cop, while continuing to accept acting commissions, as and when his schedule allowed. In 2002 his second career, as an actor, took off and he had to make a tough choice. Happily for his thousands of fans, Jack left the police force and joined the cast of South Africa’s much loved daily soap Isidingo. Since then, Jack Devnarain has become one of South Africa’s most popular and successful film characters, both on the small screen and in international movies. As chairman of The South African Guild of Actors, Jack champions enhancing actors’ working conditions, compensation and benefits, and he has become a strong voice on behalf of artists’ rights. If you want more info on SAGA click/tap the link below SA Guild of Actors – A Powerful Unified Voice for Actors Rights Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E14 · Mon, October 09, 2023
14 - Top 50 South African Films You Have Never Heard Of
What do you think? let us know Today's episode lists Gino's top 50 South African films you have probably never heard of. Time to explore the incredible variety of home grown productions that are well worth watching. Here they are in no particular order: 1. Mia and the White Lion (2018) 2. Tremors 5: Bloodlines (2015) 3. The Color of Friendship (2000) 4. Poena is Koning (2007) 5. Storm Riders: The Story of Racheltjie De Beer (2019) 6. Flatland (2019) 7. 204: Getting Away With Murder (2014) 8. Max and Mona (2004) 9. Stander (2003) 10. 10 Days in Sun City (2017) 11. Fiela se Kind (1988) 12. Yankee Zulu (1993) 13. Forever Young, Forever Free (1975) 14. Van der Merwe (2017) 15. Running Riot (2006) 16. Alison (2016) 17. High Fantasy (2017) 18. Call Me Thief (2016) 19. Dis Ek, Anna (2015) 20. Frank and Fearless (2018) 21. The Windmill (2014) 22. Die Stropers / The Harvesters (2019) 23. Poppie Nongena (2019) 24. Die Pro / The Pro (2015) 25. Wonderlus (2017) 26. Elelwani (2012) 27. Recipes for Love and Murder (2022) 28. Slumber Party Massacre (2021) 29. Space Mutiny (1988) 30. Triggered (2020) 31. The World Unseen (2007) 32. The Naked Prey (1965) 33. Projek Dina (2020) 34. Hunting Emma (2017) 35. Revelation Road (2023) 36. Girl From Nowhere (2017) 37. Sleeper’s Wake (2012) 38. Kampvuur (2023) 39. Death of a Whistleblower (2023) 40. The Day We Didn’t Meet (2021) 41. Unsex Me (2018) 42. Donkerbos (2022) 43. Hand Off (2019) 44. You’re Next (2023) 45. Shark Attack 2 (2000) 46. A Good Man in Africa (1994) 47. Hell Trip (2018) 48. This Is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection (2019) 49. Model (2020) 50. Shepherds and Butchers (2016) Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E13 · Mon, October 02, 2023
13 Masterclass with Sanele Zulu: Directing A TV Soapie
What do you think? let us know In this episode Gino is in conversation with award-winning director Sanele Zulu, talking about work behind the camera and just what it means to be a director. Sanele started his directing career on hit SA soap lsidingo "The Need", where he worked his way up from director’s assistant to director. Later Gino and Sanele chat about home life and how work and home are two separate things, as well as why Sanele didn't become a firefighter. Sanele's television credits include long-running South African favourites Scandal and Isidingo, as well as Single Guys (2013), Jamillah and Aladdin (2015) and Losing Lerato (2019). He has 2 SAFTA wins and 6 nominations. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E12 · Mon, September 25, 2023
12 A Sitdown with Shalate Sekhabi
What do you think? let us know Kgabang Sekhabi, popularly known as Shalate Sekhabi, is a South African actress and singer. She is best known for the roles in the television soap operas, The River, and House of Zwide. Shalate has had a passion for music, drama, and modelling from a tender age. When she was only eight, she joined her school’s choir and was active in the drama club. At 11 years old, she got into children’s modelling and launched her modelling career. Shalate made her acting debut in 2014 in short films, Making a Kill (directed by Justin Head) and A Cup of Sugar (directed by Xolile Tshabalala). She started acting on television in January 2020 after being cast in the recurring role of Millicent in season 3 of The River on 1Magic. She later landed the role of Shoki on eTV’s House of Zwide. Shalate has just released a brand-new extended play tagged “Love Is… EP”. The actress is also the daughter of renowned South African playwright and director Aubrey Sekhabi. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E11 · Sat, September 16, 2023
11 Masterclass with Shonisani Masutha pt 2 - Theatre
What do you think? let us know In today's episode of African Couch Potato - The Mash-up, Gino continues chatting to Shonisani Masutha focussing on her 26 years in theatre, among all her other commitments. Shonisani first hit the boards aged only 6 years old. Theatre, unlike TV or Film doesn't give you a second or third take, you have to hit it first time around as your audience is only a few meteres away. No pressure! Shoni also talks about her early experiences, touching on how to deal with corpsing (this is where actors on-stage start laughing and have to get out of it without the audience noticing) and the values of studying at drama school and how that can help you further down the line, and much more. Shonisani is back on the stage in early November in Rapela - Speaking to the Unknown, a gripping psychological thriller, where she stars as Dr. Grace Ndou, an experienced psychiatrist who faces the daunting task of evaluating and interacting with a murder suspect. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E10 · Sun, September 10, 2023
10 Masterclass with Shonisani Masutha - Auditions & Studying
What do you think? let us know Today's episode of African Couch Potato - The Mash-up is the first of two parts with Gino chatting to Shonisani Masutha. Shonisani is the first African actress to star in a Bollywood series, where she played Norah in Mehek. Her first casting was for a children's game show called Small Talk, followed by a Mzansi Magic movie, titled On The Ropes, as the character Nandi. In her Masterclass, Shonisani opens up about her roles in Ring of Lies, KwaMamazala, Omen, Isithembiso as well as a feature in Royal Pains USA. Crucial to any acting gig are the auditions and Shonisani gives us tips on how to ace them as well as the importance of studying for your craft. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E9 · Sun, September 03, 2023
09 Masterclass with Jefferson Tshabalala - Writing and Performance pt 2
What do you think? let us know In this episode of African Couch Potato: The Mash-up, Gino continues chatting to Jefferson Tshabalala: renowned writer, director, theatre and screen performer as well as the 2020 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre winner. In this second Masterclass, Jefferson discusses performance and how to truly get the best version of a script, a play or a character - both on stage and on-screen. The first part kicks off with sex scenes and how to handle them, then, completely separately, a look at how improv and workshopping can tighten a performance. Later, Jefferson opens up on how he gets into character for a role, his thoughts on child actors and how talent needs nurturing, as well as how the written word is never the finished product. All this and more from the Delivery Man in Netflix's Big Nunu's Little Heist. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E8 · Sun, August 27, 2023
08 Masterclass with Jefferson Tshabalala - Writing and Performance pt 1
What do you think? let us know This episode of African Couch Potato: The Mash-up puts Jefferson Tshabalala in the frame. Jefferson 'J Bobs' Tshabalala is a renowned writer, director, theatre and screen performer as well as the 2020 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre winner. In this Masterclass, Jefferson talks about the process of writing and provides personal insights into the world of performance - both on stage and on-screen. The first part focuses on workshopping and collaboration when it comes to writing performance pieces for theatre. Later, Jefferson highlights the importance of improvisation and chemistry between cast members as he walks us through his lead role as the Delivery Man in Netflix's Big Nunu's Little Heist. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E7 · Mon, August 21, 2023
07 Absolutely Everything Film and TV with Amo Helang pt 2
What do you think? let us know Today’s show continues the conversation between Gino and Podcast Producer + Host of Art As Culture Podcast, Creative Entrepreneur, Facilitator, Thought Leader and Content Creator, Amo Helang. Throwing the format out of the window, the episode rolls like this: Picking up from the last episode. If you missed last week's chat, go back and listen to episode 06 of African Couch Potato: The Mash-up Avatar, Acting, Analysis and Aliens A quick recap of Amo's Top 5 Amo's Golden Oldie The award-winning Sex and the City follows four female New Yorkers gossiping about their sex lives (or lack thereof) and finding new ways to deal with being a woman in the late 1990s. What Would You Change in the Industry? Amo suggests actors are people and need looking after. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E6 · Sun, August 13, 2023
06 Absolutely Everything Film and TV with Amo Helang pt 1
What do you think? let us know Today’s guest is Podcast Producer + Host of Art As Culture Podcast. Creative Entrepreneur, Facilitator, Thought Leader and Content Creator, Amo Helang. Top 5 Amo's Top 5, in no particular order. Succession : The Roy family is known for controlling the biggest media and entertainment company in the world. However, their world changes when their father steps down from the company. Avatar 1 & 2: Those blue people. She's Got To Have It : The story of one woman and her three lovers. TV series based on the film by Spike Lee. Waiting to Exhale: This multi-award winning film follows four very different African-American women and their relationships with men. Main Review Calls : Amo talks about Apple TV's Calls, a 2021 series, told through a series of interconnected phone conversations, it chronicles the mysterious story of a group of strangers whose lives are thrown into disarray in the lead-up to an apocalyptic event. Amo Helang explains how listening is a lost art and asks why South African dramas are so often crime related. Part two of this fabulous chat between Gino and Amo continues next week. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E5 · Sun, August 06, 2023
05 Masterclass with Sparky Xulu - Theatre vs Television
What do you think? let us know Our guest, Sparky Xulu, is an award-winning screen actor who attributes much of his success to his background in theatre. Having won a Royalty Soapie Award for the character of "Siya Phakathwayo" in The Estate (SABC Plus), other productions he has been involved in include: Redemption (BET) The Herd (Showmax) Supa Team 4 (Netflix) iNumber Number Jozi Gold (Netflix) Good Men (SABC Plus) Isono (BET) Isipho (eVOD) Top 5 This episode's Top 5 are films or TV series that Sparky Xulu has been a part of . Supa Team 4 is an animated series that follows the lives of four scholars who use their superpowers to fight evil. It is set in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, and is now streaming on Netflix. The Estate which you can watch on SABC Plus. Good Men is a legal drama series that can also be streamed on SABC Plus. iNumber Number: Jozi Gold is the latest instalment of the iNumber Number series which features two cops who interpret the law very differently. It came out on Netflix in June this year. The Herd, which has two seasons, can be found on Showmax and is about a family who is willing to do whatever it takes to gain wealth and power. Masterclass with Sparky Xulu We are joined by Sparky Xulu. South African actor and voice from Pietermaritzburg, KZN. Gino's Golden Oldie Nominated for 4 Oscars, District 9 explores sensitive social issues as violence ensues after an extraterrestrial race forced to live in slum-like conditions in Johannesburg finds a kindred spirit in a government agent exposed to their biotechnology. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E4 · Mon, July 31, 2023
04 SABC Plus Top 5, Nope, A United Kingdom
What do you think? let us know The weirdest movie you have ever seen. And, what in the streaming services is SABC Plus? Top 5 Our Top 5 for this episode is from SABC Plus, South Africa’s newest video and audio streaming service, a nd they are. . . Yizo Yizo, all three seasons The original Shaka Zulu series with Henry Cele. The Estate, now in its third season, having launched in 2020. Mbau Reloaded: Always Rise Side Dish with Thuso Mbedu, Refilwe Madumo, Matshepo Maleme and Joanne Reyneke Main Review In Jordan Peele's Nope, after random objects falling from the sky result in the death of their father, ranch-owning siblings OJ and Emerald Haywood attempt to capture video evidence of an unidentified flying object which leads to an uncanny and chilling discovery. Gino's Golden Oldie The story of King Seretse Khama of Bechuanaland and how his loving but controversial marriage to a British white woman, Ruth Williams, put his kingdom into political and diplomatic turmoil. Against all odds, King Khama and Ruth must struggle to maintain their love and help their people in a land that would become the Republic of Botswana. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E3 · Sun, July 23, 2023
03 Prime Video Top 5, Fatal Seduction, Spud
What do you think? let us know Sex, sex, sex, and… Spud. Top 5 Our Top 5 for this episode is from Prime Video and they are, in no particular order… Proof of Payment with my favourite actor Thabo Malema and Mandla Gaduka who used to play “Chopper” on Generations. Yep, that’s how old I am. The Underground Railroad with Thuso Mbedu. The episodes are extremely long but I suggest watching it as a marathon otherwise you won’t get back to it. Make sure you watch with your significant other. This one needs team effort. Kleva’ish. This one is also on eVOD, eTV’s streaming platform. A feel-good story about a goodie-two-shoes who loses his girlfriend to a skinny grootman. AIR is the story of Nike and Michael Jordan. Knuckle City. An aging, womanizing professional boxer and his career-criminal brother take one last shot at success and get more than they've bargained for. Main Review In Fatal Seduction a married woman goes on a dangerous weekend trip away from home that sparks desire but ends tragically, making her wonder if the people close to her are telling the truth. Gino's Golden Oldie It's South Africa 1990. Two major events are about to happen: The release of Nelson Mandela and, more importantly, it's Spud Milton's first year at an elite boys only private boarding school. The Spud 1, 2 and 3 trilogy follows Spud from his first days at his new school through to his teenage years, his first heartbreak, and dealing with his parents divorce. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E2 · Wed, July 19, 2023
02 - Showmax Top 5, Survival of the Thickest, Kalushi
What do you think? let us know From Rosemary’s murder cases to a comedy drama that celebrates plus-sized women, we’ve got you covered. Top 5 Our Top 5 for this episode is from Showmax. These are suggestions of what to watch and in each episode your host, Gino, will feature titles from various platforms such as Showmax, DStv, Prime Video, Disney Plus and SABC Plus. Rosemary’s Hitlist tells the story of how Rosemary killed 6 family members, including her child and partner, to get payouts from life insurance houses. Steinhest provides insight on the biggest corporate scandal to hit South Africa. The Woman King with Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu. Tali’s Wedding Diary Succession - I know this one is neither local nor does it feature Black people but it’s just really good. It is the best series I’ve seen in a long time. Main Review Black, plus-size and newly single, Mavis unexpectedly finds herself having to rebuild her life after putting all her eggs in one man's basket, but she's determined to not only survive but thrive with the support of her chosen family. Survival of the Thickest is a comedy series created and written by comedian and actress Michelle Buteau. Gino's Golden Oldie Kalushi is a 2016 film about Solomon Mahlangu who joined the military wing of the ANC to fight against the brutal oppression of the Apartheid regime, and ended up becoming an icon of South Africa's liberation. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
S1 E1 · Tue, July 18, 2023
01 - African Couch Potato: The Mash-up
What do you think? let us know Welcome to African Couch Potato: The Mash-up… Top 5 Our Top 5 for this episode are all from Netflix. These are suggestions of what to watch and in each episode your host, Gino, will feature titles from various platforms such as Showmax, DStv, Prime Video, Disney Plus and SABC Plus. Survival of the Thickest, created by comedian and actress Michelle Buteau. Unseen with Gail Mabalane. iNumber Number: Jozi Gold . Country Queen - set in Kenya. Trees of Peace explores the lives of four women trapped in a basement during a genocide in Rwanda. Main Review Shaka Ilembe is the latest TV sensation to hit South African screens, featuring Nomzamo Mbatha, Lemogang Tsipa and Ntando Zondi, who plays the young Shaka. We get into what's hot about this new production about Africa's greatest warrior. Gino's Golden Oldie Catch A Fire, based on a true story, came out in 2006, but that is no reason to not re-look at this outstandingly beautiful story with its first class performances and its truly magical score. Let us know what you think, what movie or series you would like to see featured, or just to tell us how brilliant it all is: instagram.com/africancouchpotato twitter.com/africancouchpot gino.arlechino@gmail.com https://www.patreon.com/c/AfricanCouchPotato Member of the Film Critics Association of South Africa (FCASA) Produced by Ted Loukes and A10 Consulting ted@aten.co.za Music by The_Mountain from Pixabay © SANTE MEDIA 2025
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