Production set for groundbreaking film ‘Granny Lee’

Exploring the life of South African transgender icon

A highly anticipated feature film chronicling the life of South African transgender icon Granny Lee is set to begin production in Johannesburg in April 2025. This remarkable project delves into an era marked by intense social change, exploring the underground disco scene and the cultural landscape of the 1980s.

Participating in prestigious markets

The aptly titled project, “Granny Lee”, gained significant traction by participating in the Film London Production Finance Market during the ongoing BFI London Film Festival. Such exposure has set high expectations for the film’s release and success.

A compelling backdrop

The character of Granny Lee, a white-passing, trans femme luminary, emerges as a beacon in the underground LGBTQ community during the 1980s in South Africa. Set against the backdrop of Apartheid-era Johannesburg and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the narrative follows Granny Lee as she guides a grieving mother through the vibrant yet perilous city’s LGBTQ underground scene.

Starring Soli Philander

In a casting move that has generated considerable buzz, multi-talented South African entertainer Soli Philander will portray Granny Lee. Philander’s diverse talents promise to bring a richly nuanced performance to this pivotal role.

Executive production by Alexandra Billings

The project is further bolstered by the involvement of Alexandra Billings, who joins as an executive producer through her production company, Schmengie. Billings’ commitment to authentic storytelling and representation is anticipated to add significant depth and integrity to the film.

Veteran directors helm the project

The father-son directing duo known as The Gabriels—comprising Ian and Gabe Gabriel—will bring their unique vision to the film. Ian Gabriel, noted for having directed South Africa’s Oscar submission “Four Corners,” offers firsthand experience of 1980s Johannesburg. Meanwhile, Gabe Gabriel, who penned the screenplay, is a recognized advocate for LGBTQ filmmakers in South Africa. Their combined expertise aims to provide an authentic and impactful narrative.

Their previous collaboration on the trans-led, GLAAD Media Award-nominated film “Runs in the Family” reflects their commitment to championing diverse stories. “Runs in the Family” is currently streaming on Netflix and continues to garner praise for its heartfelt storytelling.

An international collaboration

The film’s production involves a diverse and talented array of companies across the globe. Tshepiso and Joel Chikapa-Phiri’s Known Associates Entertainment lead the South African side, having gained recognition for their work on “Death of a Whistleblower.”

Canadian interests are represented by Shant Joshi’s Fae Pictures, renowned for producing the Sundance and GLAAD Media Award-winning “Framing Agnes”, as well as Pakistan’s Oscar entry “In Flames”. Yanick Letourneau’s Peripheria brings experience from producing Ivory Coast’s Oscar submission “Night of the Kings”, while Tamryn Reinecke’s Pale Rebel Productions, recognized for their SXSW award-winning “It Is In Us All”, completes the formidable production team.

Structured as a co-production

This ambitious project is structured as a collaboration between South Africa, Canada, and Ireland. Financing comes from Known Associates Group with participation from Telefilm Canada and Screen Ireland, ensuring robust support for the film’s development.

Casting and production details

Casting director Jessica Kelly is currently working to fill the role of Irene, the grieving mother central to the storyline. This pivotal character plays alongside Granny Lee, offering a dual perspective that enriches the film’s narrative.

“Granny Lee” was officially presented to potential gap financiers at the BFI London Film Festival’s Production Finance Market, garnering interest and support for its innovative storytelling.

A new era of international co-productions

“Granny Lee” aims to be the inaugural project produced under the recently modernized co-production treaty between Canada and South Africa. Signed at MIP Africa in early September, this treaty marks the beginning of a new era of collaborative filmmaking, promising richer, more diverse content.

“Granny Lee” is set to be a landmark film, exploring essential themes of identity, resilience, and community. Stay tuned for more updates on this ground-breaking project, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and follow us for the latest news in the world of cinema.