Heartlines to Relaunch ‘8 Films, 8 Values’ Campaign: Life May Look Different, But Values Never Change

Bringing Back a Nation’s Storytelling Legacy

Social behaviour change NPO, Heartlines, is relaunching its acclaimed ‘8 Films, 8 Values’ campaign, a film series that ignited a national movement towards positive values when it first aired in 2006. Nearly 20 years later, public demand for these films remains strong, with audiences continuously requesting rebroadcasts and access to the impactful stories.

“Yes, our classrooms might look different; our technology may have advanced. But nothing moves society forward as profoundly as people united to live for the greater good.”

Nevelia Moloi, Heartlines’ head of content, explains why the films are being re-released:

Over the years, the films have left a lasting impression on viewers. One social media user credited them as the reason for becoming a teacher, while a community activist from Gqeberha described them as marking “a unique moment in our country’s history that we’ve never had again since then.”

A Campaign That Changed Lives

Originally known as ‘8 Weeks, 8 Values, One National Conversation’, the initiative was more than just a film series—it was a movement. The campaign not only sparked crucial conversations across South Africa but also helped launch the careers of notable actors, including Atandwa Kani (best known for Black Panther).

Each one-hour film explores a fundamental value:

• Heartlines – Grace
• Crossroads – Forgiveness
• The Other Woman – Compassion
• The Miners – Acceptance
• The Good Provider – Responsibility
• The Good Fight – Perseverance
• The Piano – Honesty
• The Bet – Self-control

“I am South African, and I am proud to announce that I was part of great South African storytelling. It goes back to where we as South Africans have started.”

Reflecting on his experience filming The Bet, Atandwa Kani remarked:

Why Now? The Enduring Relevance of Values

Despite nearly two decades passing since the films first aired, their messages remain as important as ever. While South Africa has progressed in many ways, the nation still faces challenges such as gender-based violence, poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Heartlines believes that a return to these core values is essential for building stronger families and communities.

“By re-releasing this series, Heartlines wants to provide a regular reminder of the values that helped get South Africans through the scourge of apartheid and helped us rebuild as a nation against all odds.”

Moloi adds:

When & Where to Watch

For the first time since their exclusive licensing deal with M-Net in 2012, Heartlines is making the films publicly available on their website. The rollout follows the original format, with a new film released every week for eight weeks, starting on 21 March 2025 (Human Rights Day) with Heartlines.

Film Release Schedule:

📅 21 March 2025 – Heartlines (Grace)
📅 28 March 2025 – Crossroads (Forgiveness)
📅 4 April 2025 – The Other Woman (Compassion)
📅 11 April 2025 – The Miners (Acceptance)
📅 18 April 2025 – The Good Provider (Responsibility)
📅 25 April 2025 – The Good Fight (Perseverance)
📅 2 May 2025 – The Piano (Honesty)
📅 9 May 2025 – The Bet (Self-control)

Viewers can access the films weekly at Heartlines’ official website.

Heartlines’ ‘8 Films, 8 Values’ campaign was a defining moment in South African storytelling, sparking national reflection and conversations on integrity, resilience, and unity. As these films return to the public, they offer both a nostalgic trip and a powerful reminder that values remain the foundation for a better society—no matter how much the world changes.