Experiencing Interruptions?

Better Or Worse

Better or Worse, explores the emotional terrain of toxic marriages and the subtle, sometimes dangerous power dynamics that exist behind closed doors — particularly among those in positions of influence or authority. With dark humour and psychological tension, the film challenges viewers to question appearances and the true cost of control in such modern relationships.

  • Riaz Solker
    Director
  • Marlisa Doubell
    Director
  • Marlisa Doubell
    Writer
  • Marlisa Doubell
    Producer
  • Marlisa Doubell
    Key Cast
    "Vivienne"
  • Darron Meyer
    Key Cast
    "Daniel"
  • Jurie Senekal
    Director Of Photography
  • Werner Ryke
    Assistant Director
  • Jurie Senekal
    Editor
  • Lindsay Cretchley
    Production Supervisor
  • Janice Africa
    Production Assistant
  • Kawemba Banda
    Production Assistant
  • Shannyn Fourie
    Makeup & Styling
  • ERM Stars
    Casting
  • Newspeak
    Production Company
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Dark Comedy, Psychological Drama
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 35 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 16, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    50,000 ZAR
  • Country of Origin:
    South Africa
  • Country of Filming:
    South Africa
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Riaz Solker, Marlisa Doubell

Marlisa comes from a theatre background and is self taught filmmaker. Marlisa holds a BA degree in Psychology & English, UK teaching qualifications (QTS & NQT) in Drama & English, and a postgraduate degree from the Academy of Live & Recorded Arts in acting.

Riaz Solker is a seasoned filmmaker, director, actor, and lecturer whose work spans various mediums, including film and documentary. Riaz has taught acting at institutions like UCT, CDTPS, and CityVarsity. Riaz's wealth of experience and insights promise to inspire and energise audiences.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

From Marlisa:
Better or Worse began as a response to the polished, curated image of relationships we often see from the outside—where everything appears perfect, but beneath the surface, something far more complex and corrosive is playing out. I’ve always been drawn to the fine line between love and control, devotion and manipulation. This film explores that tension with shades of dark comedy and psychological drama, inviting us to sit with the discomfort of what we don’t say—and what we pretend not to see.

From Riaz:
Marlisa convinced me to co-direct Better or Worse as part of our ongoing creative collaboration, which began with Lonely Lights in 2015. As her teacher and mentor, it’s been a joy to support her bold, evolving voice as a filmmaker.