Showmax has officially dropped the trailer for its latest original production, Masinga – The Calling, a haunting new crime thriller set to premiere on Friday, 5 December 2025.
The film follows an exiled detective returning to South Africa to face the demons of his past and investigate the ritual murder of his younger brother, who had albinism. His journey soon intertwines with rescuing an Asian girl from a similar fate — a mission that forces him to reconnect with his Zulu roots and spiritual calling.
A Powerful Lead and Star-Studded Cast
In the title role, SAFTA winner Hakeem Kae-Kazim (Pirates of the Caribbean, Hotel Rwanda) delivers a deeply layered performance. Joining him are Shamilla Miller (The Umbrella Men, Devil’s Peak) as his rookie partner, and an all-star ensemble that includes Abdul Khoza, Fana Mokoena, Warren Masemola, Brandon Auret, Sean Cameron Michael, and Mbuso Khoza — who recently won Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards.
Filmed in both KwaZulu-Natal and London, Masinga – The Calling earned Best Director and Best Screenplay for Mark Engels at the 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards and The Palermo Independent International Film Festival in Italy.
“Masinga – The Calling packs a powerful punch… The pacing is airtight, resulting in an instantly enthralling experience,” .
writes News24’s Joel Ontong
Inside the Mind of Hakeem Kae-Kazim
In conversation, Hakeem — who boasts over 130 IMDb acting credits including 24, Black Sails, Criminal Minds, Godzilla vs Kong, and X-Men Origins: Wolverine — opens up about his experience bringing the complex character of Masinga to life.
“Masinga is a Zulu man who no longer speaks the language. His journey home rekindles his spiritual calling and forces him to confront the trauma of losing his brother.”
Hakeem explains
To prepare, Hakeem worked closely with a spiritual advisor from KwaZulu-Natal, immersing himself in Zulu language and culture.
“I enjoy understanding the subtleties of a culture — the things that aren’t immediately obvious,”.
he adds
The Spiritual Journey
Throughout the story, Masinga’s late brother begins to appear to him in dreams, guiding his investigation.
“At first, the visions confuse him. But over time, he learns to trust them — to let them guide his path.”
Hakeem says
The film’s blend of crime drama and African spirituality offers a refreshing narrative depth rarely seen on screen, exploring heritage, identity, and redemption.
Collaboration and Craft
“He’s very clear on his vision and how he wants the story to feel. There’s so much richness here that I hope it becomes a full series.”
Working with director Mark Engels was a highlight for Hakeem:
“Abdul Khoza is an incredible talent. Fana Mokoena and I have known each other for years, so it was great to reunite. Every actor brought their A-game.”
He also praised his co-stars:
Factsheet
Name: Hakeem Kae-Kazim
Born: Nigeria
Raised: England
Based in: South Africa
Languages: English, French
Family: Married, three daughters
Education: Studied in the United Kingdom
Hakeem on Longevity and African Storytelling
“It’s all about perseverance. There are good times and bad times, but you have to keep your head above water. I came back to South Africa because telling African stories from our perspective is important. We have so many powerful tales that deserve to be told.”
he reflects
“The attention to detail is phenomenal. It’s a special show that deserves global recognition.”
Currently, Hakeem is enjoying Shaka iLembe:
Masinga – The Calling premieres Friday, 5 December 2025, exclusively on Showmax.
