Just ahead of its official television launch, the media was invited to the pre-screening of Ifalakhe’s first episode.
Now available to stream
The plot
The storyline follows King Khombindlela, who finds himself in a dilemma that involves his two newborn sons from different wives. Though he’s elated to finally being gifted with not one but two sons, Khombindlela’s life gets complicated when a prophet declares that one son is his rightful heir, and the other is evil.
King Khombindlela also has to deal with a jealous second wife who causes more damage than good and the Khanya tribe, which continues to pose a threat to his kingdom.
“The series [is] set in pre-colonial Southern Africa, which adds a rich texture to the story and makes for, what we feel, is brilliant television.” – Mmamitse Thibedi, director from production house Stained Glass
An A-grade group of cast members
One of the first things you’ll notice about Ifalakhe is its group of talented cast members, including Bheki Sibiya, Bheki Ngcobo, Chris Radebe and Sthandwa Nzuza, who will be familiar to you if you followed Isibaya and The Herd.
Incredible production quality
Another impressive aspect of Ifalakhe is the all-round production quality of the show. Besides the impeccable cast of talented actors, the show brings out the big guns when it comes to the overall set design.
According to the director and producers of Ifalakhe, the focus was to ensure that the authenticity of all characters was preserved and that the narrative of the era rings true as well.
“The series [is] set in pre-colonial Southern Africa, which adds a rich texture to the story and makes for, what we feel, is brilliant television,” says Mmamitse Thibedi, director from production house Stained Glass.
“We’ve worked hard to create an intricate, intriguing plot that highlights the adverse effect of multiple twisted agendas and manipulation of power from the kings themselves and also from characters such as the king’s wives – who have their own selfish ambitions,” she adds.
Since the release of its trailer, the reactions from South African viewers have been overwhelmingly positive.
Even Phathu Makwarela, the scriptwriter of The River, gave his thoughts about Ifalakhe and the tremendous impact the show will have on South African television.
Ifalakhe is now available to stream in full on Showmax.
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