How Far Would You Go for a Friend? Kites Stars Talk Loyalty, Chaos, and Brotherhood
“What if one wild night could change everything?” That’s the premise of Kites, the gripping, fast-paced debut feature from director Menzi Mzimela (Sterring), landing on Showmax on Friday, 25 April 2025. After a sold-out premiere in competition at the Joburg Film Festival, the hype is real – and deserved.
Produced by Urban Brew Studios and part of Showmax’s First-Time Directors slate, Kites follows four friends chasing a career-making DJ audition. But when their plans take a dark twist involving a dead body, they’re forced to answer the ultimate question: how far would you go for your crew?
The film stars Craig Nobela (The Queen) as Sihle, the glue holding the group together; Aphiwe Mkefe (Lakutshon’ Ilanga) and Marcus Molemane (The Estate) as aspiring DJs Links and Neo; and Paballo Mavundla (The Herd, Generations) as the ever-hyped Vusi. Wanda Zuma (House of Zwide) also appears in a powerful supporting role.
Ride-or-Die Vibes On and Off Screen
For the cast, the chemistry was instant.
“It always felt like we’ve been brothers. Sharing life stories in the greenroom, talking about the kind of work we wanted to make — that connected us fast.”
says Paballo Mavundla
And that connection shows. From wild banter to tense moments, the dynamic between the characters pulses with authenticity.
The Voice of Reason vs. The Chaos Crew
Craig Nobela might play the responsible one in Kites, but that’s no stretch.
“In real life, I’m the party pooper. I’m the ambassador for boring, peaceful fun.”
he laughs
Meanwhile, Marcus Molemane is all about balance.
“Don’t get lost in the sauce,. Keep your ‘why’ top of mind — that’s how I stay focused.”
he jokes
What Would You Do?
Like the characters, the actors had to confront some moral hypotheticals.
Would they help a friend hide a body?
“I know my friends are good people. So, I’d help keep their image clean…”
Craig plays it cool:
Aphiwe?
“I’m definitely answering that call. Is this a setup!?”.
he laughs
Moments That Stick
When asked what song would play when the crew enters a room, Aphiwe doesn’t hesitate:
“Run Jozi by AKA ft KO and Yanga Chief. That’s Kites in a track.”
And if they were a real DJ trio?
“New Wave. Cliché, but it works!”
Marcus jokes:
Why Kites Hits Home
At its heart, Kites is about trust, loyalty, and the messy, unshakable bond between friends.
“Relationships are so delicate. Everyone needs love and support. Seeing these guys struggle together – people will feel that.”
says Aphiwe
Don’t miss the ride.
Kites premieres 25 April 2025, only on Showmax.
Join the conversation: #KitesShowmax
Starring: Craig Nobela, Aphiwe Mkefe, Marcus Molemane, Paballo Mavundla
Directed by: Menzi Mzimela
Produced by: Urban Brew Studios
