News & Industry Updates

 SASC Statement of Support for the rebate system.

We, as the South African Society of Cinematographers - SASC, strongly support the protests scheduled for 28 January in Cape Town and 29 January in Pretoria.

The time for silence has passed. Our sector can no longer be expected to endure systemic neglect by government departments that have failed to support an industry that has historically been a significant economic, cultural, and skills-generating contributor to South Africa.

Through poor governance, mismanagement, and a persistent lack of accountability, funds intended to grow and sustain the film and television industry—most notably production rebates—have been squandered to the tune of billions of rands. This failure has directly undermined international confidence, forcing global producers to take their projects, investment, and jobs to countries with more reliable systems, stronger ethical oversight, and predictable business environments.

The consequences are no longer theoretical. They are being felt daily by actors, writers, crews, production companies, and emerging filmmakers—many of whom are now unemployed or facing the collapse of their careers. New talent continues to be developed into an industry that can no longer absorb or sustain it, an outcome that is both irresponsible and deeply short-sighted.

The SASC represents over 80 of the most experienced and respected cinematographers in the country—professionals who form the backbone of South Africa’s international reputation for excellence. Yet, due to the lack of meaningful government support and policy certainty, an increasing number of these experts are being forced to seek work abroad. This exodus not only weakens the local industry but also deprives emerging filmmakers of mentorship and skills transfer from South Africa’s best practitioners.

This is the reality check:

If decisive and immediate action is not taken, South Africa risks losing an entire generation of skilled creative professionals—along with the infrastructure, institutional knowledge, reputation, and economic benefits the sector once delivered. Recovery will not be quick, and in some cases, it may not be possible at all.

We therefore call for transparency, consequence management, and accountable leadership. Those responsible must be held to account if this sector is to survive—and if it is ever to flourish again as it once did.

Rise, accountable government. Rise.

Uwe Beckmann SASC