Converses with filmmaker Hendrik Cronje about the movie Lieve Lisa
In the heart of South Africa's film industry, a new voice is making waves. Hendrik Cronje, a dreamer at heart, has brought his vision to life with his first film as director, editor, and lead actor, "Liewe Lisa".
"Liewe Lisa" explores the consequences and choices we make, and how we can never fully escape from them, as well as different views on marriage. The film's main character, Daniel, is a writer who dreams of making a difference with his words. However, his dreams lead him into an illicit affair with a married woman, and later, into a romantic entanglement with her daughter.
Cronje, who also penned the screenplay, found the process of turning inspiration into the passion for telling this story relatively easy. He drew inspiration from various sources, including the classic film "The Graduate", as well as movies like "Before Sunrise", "Amélie", and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind".
The film's director believes that one has a moral responsibility to follow one's passion. This is a theme that runs throughout "Liewe Lisa", where dreams can either save you or ruin you. Cronje advises writers not to confuse fiction and reality.
Cronje's experience as an actor aids him in his writing, as he puts himself into the mindset of the characters and sees the potential of a scene from an actor's perspective. This approach is evident in the film, where the performances are raw and emotive.
The use of music and songs in "Liewe Lisa" is a conscious choice by Cronje. He sees it as part of the dialogue and a way to create a world that is different from stark reality. The music underscores dramatic scenes and confrontations, adding depth and emotion to the narrative.
"Liewe Lisa" is not just a story about dreams and their consequences. It also looks at the narrative that following your dreams will lead to success, but many talented people don't make it. The film highlights the importance of writing words and stories that can change the world and give writers their voice.
Cronje is the founder and director of Kompanjie Stories, a production company dedicated to bringing original story-based films to the Afrikaans market. His next film, "Relatief Jonk", is a contemporary comedy.
Despite his success, Cronje remains a romantic at heart. However, he finds it difficult to express his feelings in real life. This struggle is reflected in his work, making "Liewe Lisa" a deeply personal and emotionally resonant film.
In conclusion, "Liewe Lisa" is a testament to Cronje's passion for storytelling and his belief in following one's dreams. It is a film that explores the complexities of love, the power of dreams, and the consequences of our choices.
