The new Afrikaans romantic adventure film, Vir Altyd, not only elated audiences during its opening weekend at the box office – the film also shattered records by earning R4,727,479.00 and was seen by 89 731 people.
This officially puts it in the top spot for best earnings by an Afrikaans movie in its first weekend. The film opened on the 12th of February at cinemas around the country.
Vir Altyd tells the story of Hugo (Ivan Botha) and Nina (Donnalee Roberts) who grow up as best friends, but lose contact because of a tragic accident that changes both their lives forever.
After ten years, Hugo and Nina see each other again on the eve of her wedding to Retief (Stiaan Smith), but when her fairy tale comes to a sudden end, she and Hugo go to Mauritius; she a reluctant ‘bride’ and he a ‘bridegroom’ who is confronted with painful memories and strong feelings for Nina.
On the island they realise, after they go on several adventures and meet other couples on the ‘road of love’, that it’s not about the happy ending, but about the journey on the way there instead.
After this brilliant opening weekend, Ivan Botha and Donnalee Roberts, writers, co-producers and lead actors of the film, say: “We are eternally grateful for everyone’s support and wonderful positive feedback. As filmmakers there is no greater honour for us than having so many people share our story and that our characters make them laugh and cry. Vir Altyd is a dream on which we’ve been working tirelessly for the past two years and it is a privilege to share this adventure with you.”
Danie Bester, co-producer of the film, says about the box office success and the entire Vir Altyd experience: “The biggest compliment and also honour for a filmmaker is when an audience comes to watch your work, identifies with the story and you have the privilege to work with people who inspire you. That is fantastic.”
Vir Altyd will be enjoyed by young and old. Supporters on Facebook are flooding the film’s page with compliments such as, “Was the best Valentine’s outing with my beloved to go and see the most beautiful movie” (Zeldine van den Berg); “My husband and I went to see your film today and the tears were streaming down my face. The movie’s depth just reminded me again that it is a privilege to find someone to share your life with. I’ll watch the movie over and over again” (Christelle van Wyk); and Maureen van der Merwe: “We went to watch the movie today… Grandpa and I laughed and also shed a tear… it’s a fantastic movie… we recommend it 110% to everyone… all the actors, we salute you… was great to see young and old went to watch it!”
Elize Cawood, Wilson Dunster, Ilse Roos, Dirk Stoltz, Laré Birk, Deidre Wolhuter, Andre Jacobs, André Stolz, Sans Moonsamy, Nicky de Kock, Caylem Else and Hèléne Truter can also be seen in the movie.
The film was released nationwide on 12 February 2016 by Ster-Kinekor, Nu Metro and independent theatres. Distribution through Ster-Kinekor Entertainment.
Vir Altyd was produced by 17FilmStreetMedia and The Film Factory.
For exclusive behind-the-scenes photos and the latest news, follow the film here:
Trailer link: Official trailer / Amptelike lokprent
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viraltydfilm
Twitter: @VirAltyd
