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Day Zero

Set in the water-scarce community of Owomile in 2060, Day Zero follows Thandiwe, a determined young woman, as she embarks on a perilous journey with her best friend Dumiso and her mentor's cousin , Thapelo to reclaim control of the community’s vital water source. Battling dehydration, personal doubts, and the ever-present threat of the ruthless Scorpions, the trio faces trials that will test their unity and resolve. As they near their goal, tensions reach a breaking point when an unexpected confrontation could change the fate of Owomile forever. Will Thandiwe and her companions succeed in their daring quest, or will the Scorpions’ reign continue?

  • Nompumelelo Shimange
    Director
  • Makoma Mabelebele
    Director
  • Avile Mdlankomo
    Writer
    Head writer
  • Makoma Mabelebele
    Writer
    Assistant writer
  • Nonstikilelo Davis
    Writer
    Assistant writer
  • Jessica Hlongwane
    Producer
  • Rachel Tolman
    Producer
  • Nompumelelo Shimange
    Producer
  • Makoma Mabelebele
    Producer
  • Onkatlaretse Koolatotse
    Key Cast
    "Thandiwe "
  • Mietani Chitambira
    Key Cast
    "Dumiso "
  • Siyanda Kiid Matsheke
    Key Cast
    "Thapelo"
  • Thandeka Shangese
    Key Cast
    "Makazi "
  • Llewellyn Cordier
    Key Cast
    "General Drikus "
  • Project Type:
    Student
  • Runtime:
    29 minutes 16 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 22, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    50,000 ZAR
  • Country of Origin:
    South Africa
  • Country of Filming:
    South Africa
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Arri Alexa Mini
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - AFDA JOHANNESBURG
  • Johannesburg
    South Africa
    November 23, 2024
    Rosebank Sterkinerkor Nouveau
    Best Performance in a Lead Role Best Production and Costume Design Best Visual Effects Best Producing Best Cinematography Best Motion Picture Film ADFA Critics award
Director Biography - Nompumelelo Shimange, Makoma Mabelebele

Storytelling is my passion, and film is my canvas. With a BA in Motion Picture, I craft narratives that resonate deeply, challenge perceptions, and push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Whether through thought-provoking dystopian worlds or emotionally charged character studies, my work is driven by the belief that stories have the power to inspire change.
Beyond filmmaking, my creativity extends to dancing, crocheting, and novel writing,each art form enriching my cinematic lens. Though naturally introverted, I thrive in collaborative spaces where diverse voices and perspectives ignite fresh ideas.
In 2025, my crew and cast were honored with seven AFDA awards, including Best Motion Picture Film, Best Cinematography, Best Producing, Best Visual Effects, Best Production and Costume Design, Best Performance in a Lead Role, and the prestigious AFDA Critics Award. These accolades reflect not just my dedication, but the incredible teams that bring each vision to life.
For me, filmmaking is more than just storytelling,it’s about capturing raw, unfiltered emotions, shaping new realities, and leaving audiences with something to carry long after the credits roll.

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Director Statement

Day Zero : A Wake-Up Call
At the heart of my work is Day Zero, a film that doesn’t just depict a crisis but forces us to question our place in it. South Africa’s water scarcity is no longer a distant threat; it is our present reality. As taps run dry and resources dwindle, we must ask ourselves: Where do we stand as citizens in this crisis? What role do we play in shaping what comes next?

Day Zero is a thought-provoking exploration of our collective responsibility and the future that awaits if we fail to act. This film is not only a warning,it’s an eye-opener. If we don’t change, this won’t just be our future; it will be our existence.