Eastern Cape filmmakers working under Kumkani FM’s digital streaming platform, Montywood, are building excitement ahead of the release of the latest episode of their popular telenovela, The Long Arm of the Law.
Produced under the Montywood banner, Season 2 Episode 6 is set to premiere on Friday at 8pm, with audiences promised another installment packed with drama, suspense and unexpected twists.
Carrying the tagline “One law. Two sides. No escape,” the production has steadily attracted viewers through its gripping storyline and strong local cast.
The drama centres around Tiny, a young man seeking justice after the murder of his father, who was allegedly assassinated by powerful taxi boss Mtipha.
As the story unfolds, viewers are taken into a world of crime, corruption, revenge and law enforcement, all set against familiar Eastern Cape locations.
Kumkani FM marketing manager Simphiwe Ndoda told Go! On Tuesday the production team wanted to create a story that resonated with local audiences by incorporating familiar languages, cultures and real-life community dynamics.
“We wanted the story to appeal to our target audience by using the languages and realities that people are accustomed to in their communities.
“To make it more authentic, we used real locations across the city,” said Ndoda.
He said Tiny’s [Qhamani Mabizela] quest for revenge took an unexpected turn when he formed an alliance with private investigators and law enforcement officials pursuing Mtipha [Mveliso Kaptein].
“Before his release from prison, he made a deal with private investigators who were already investigating Mtipha.
“Tiny is smart and agrees to work with the police to bring him down,” said Ndoda.
Beyond crime and action, the production also seeks to address broader social issues affecting communities.
“We wanted the story to be dynamic and not only focus on criminal activities and heists.
“We also wanted to showcase cultural issues and raise awareness about challenges facing our communities,” said Ndoda.
He said the series explored themes of justice, abuse of power and the complexities of crime-fighting, while highlighting issues that often affected ordinary citizens.
Ndoda believes the success of the production has been driven by a dedicated team of creatives committed to authentic storytelling.
“These are people who understand storytelling and do not shy away from addressing issues that affect society,” Ndoda said.
The production is directed by Unathi Dyubula and produced by Simcelile Gadlaza.
The writing is led by Lihle Deleki, with cinematography by Azile Cibi.
Sound production is handled by Papama Nini, Mikho Nkabi and Yonela Hala, while Linamandla Damoyi serves as casting director.
The cast features a range of local talent including Mabizela (Tiny), Kaptein (Mtipha), Siphosethu Nondena (Angel), Telela Nyoka (Yoliswa), Ntlahla Dosi (Qhama), Siyanda Futshane (Loyiso), Ncubeko Ziyanqoza, Element Jamikhaya, Siyasanga Mpushe (Madlamini) and Phelisa Ndaloentle Ndamase (Ms Sotheni).
With the Season 2 Episode 6 trailer already released, viewers can expect new developments as the battle between Tiny and Mtipha intensifies.
“The full episode drops every Friday on the Montywood platform and there is still a lot more to come. Season 3 is already in the pipeline”said Ndoda.
He encouraged young people with a passion for storytelling, acting and filmmaking to make use of local opportunities rather than leaving the province in search of careers elsewhere.
Also launching on Friday are Kumkani FM’s podcasts: Hustlers Drive Time Season 1 Episode 1 and Lunch Time Doze Season 1 Episode 1.
