Freestyle Digital Media, part of Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, has secured U.S. VOD rights to the thought-provoking South African film anthology “Hyperlink.” The collection of four surreal dramatic shorts will debut on U.S. digital HD internet, cable, satellite platforms, and DVD on July 12, 2024.
About “Hyperlink”
“Hyperlink” comprises four short films that delve into the complex and often deceptive world of the internet and surveillance culture. Directed by South African filmmakers Mzonke Maloney, Nolitha Mkulisi, Julie Nxadi, and Evan Wigdorowitz, the anthology presents a multifaceted view of modern digital life. Each film explores different narratives that highlight the risks and illusions inherent in online interactions.
- Short 1: A Christian convert preparing for his spiritual rebirth faces a shocking reality when his estranged teenage daughter declares him dead on social media.
- Short 2: A schoolgirl’s private life is exposed when she invites a classmate, an online influencer, into her home.
- Short 3: A financially troubled divorced father’s desperate attempts to connect with his daughter lead him into precarious situations.
- Short 4: A poet and commentator’s quest for social change through her online fame threatens to consume her and those she loves.
Multilingual Presentation
The films are presented in English, French, IsiXhosa, and IsiZulu, with English subtitles, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of South Africa.
Cast and Crew
The anthology features a talented cast, including Lindile Manyonta, Vela Zozo, Chantal Malonga, Sibulele Gcilitshana, Tessa Jubber, Nambita Ntsaluba, Neo Leoka, Leon Clingman, Adrian Galley, Balindile Ka Ngcobo, and Nandi Jakuja. “Hyperlink” was produced by Nolitha Mkulisi, Håkon Ludvik Grønvold, and Petrus van Staden.
Inspiration and Creation
“Hyperlink” was inspired by real incidents on the internet and social media, particularly during the pandemic when people increasingly turned to their electronic devices. Director Nolitha Mkulisi shared, “This experiment was inspired by notorious incidents on the internet and social media in a specific context. It felt relevant to make it at that time, soon after the pandemic ensued, literally leaving people to their electronic devices. We always knew it had to end up somewhere it was inspired by. It was a labor of love with a shoestring budget. This exposure has exceeded our expectations and feels more surreal than the film. We’re deeply honored to share it with this wide of an audience.”
Distribution Deal
Freestyle Digital Media negotiated the acquisition of “Hyperlink” directly with Nolitha Mkulisi and Brown Flamingo Productions, bringing this compelling anthology to a broader U.S. audience.
Mark your calendars for July 12, 2024, to experience “Hyperlink,” an anthology that vividly captures the complexities and surreal nature of our digital lives.