Taskovski Films Sales has picked up documentary “1001 Days,” directed by Chloe White and Kethiwe Ngcobo, which will have its international premiere at IDFA in the Luminous selection.
The film follows three fearless, charismatic women, who take on the role of home visitors in Alexandra, a township in Johannesburg. Thandiwe, Khosi and Zanele help pregnant women and women who have recently given birth, all too aware that the first 1001 days, from conception to two years, are critical.
“Combining footage of the women at work, alongside frank and moving testimonies, ‘1001 Days’ offers an insight into the joys, challenges and disturbing reality of everyday life for these brave individuals and the many women they help,” the company said. “It’s an intimate, challenging and unflinching portrait of motherhood and changemaking in modern-day South Africa.”
The film is produced by Rose Palmer of U.K.-based Whalebone Films. It had its world premiere at Sheffield Doc Fest, where it received the Special Mention from the Youth Jury.
Irena Taskovski, CEO of Taskovski Films, said: “‘1001 Days’ is a film of extreme importance, inspiring women around the world to take action, support each other, and be there for each other when governments and society have failed to do so. The film is leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the next generation as well as women’s mental health support and will be shared on many screens around the world. We are proud to join this powerful, female-led team.”
White said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Taskovski Films on our first feature documentary, ‘1001 Days.’ Taskovski has represented some of the best and most creative documentaries and has a proven track record of brilliant campaigns to raise the profile of both films and filmmakers, bringing important stories to audiences around the world.”
Ngcobo said: “I am extremely pleased and honored that the story of the women of Alexandra will have this brilliant global platform to showcase their strength and resilience, which inspired us to make ‘1001 Days.'”
