Johannesburg, South Africa — 22 April 2025
The echoes of applause still linger in the halls of Cape Town’s District Six Homecoming Centre, where the HACC Festival 2025 recently concluded. Among the festival’s shining stars, onename resonated with quiet force and undeniable impact—Isaac Kasende, who won Top Short Film for his riveting entry, Belinda.
A Self-Made Visionary Takes Center Stage
The echoes of applause still linger in the halls of Cape Town’s District Six Homecoming Centre, where the HACC Festival 2025 recently concluded. Among the festival’s shining stars, one name resonated with quiet force and undeniable impact—Isaac Kasende, who won Top Short Film for his riveting entry, Belinda.
HACC Festival 2025: A Celebration of African Cinematic Renaissance
This year’s HACC Festival—held in powerful partnership with the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation and the District Six Homecoming Centre—was more than a cinematic event; it was a cultural revival. The curated selection of films was celebrated by both attendees and critics as a clear indication of Cape Town’s reawakening as a cinematic powerhouse. Notably, a 25% increase in film submissions marked the growing reach and relevance of the festival across the continent and beyond.
Kasende’s provocative short film, Belinda, reflects his unique voice—one that blends unorthodox storytelling with piercing social commentary. In Belinda, three hotel workers stumble upon a magical machine that produces money—at the grisly cost of human lives. This 24-minute tale spirals from temptation to madness, all underpinned by a satirical lens on greed, class, and power.
scene from Isaac Kasende’s award-winning short film, Belinda.
“Belinda”: A Satirical Tale of Greed and Power
Kasende’s award-winning short film, Belinda, is a powerful reflection of his unique narrative style, seamlessly blending unconventional storytelling with sharp social commentary. The 24-minute film follows three hotel workers who discover a magical machine with a dark secret – it produces money at the cost of human lives. This premise unfolds into a gripping exploration of temptation, madness, and a biting satire on themes of greed, class disparity, and the abuse of power.
Powerful Performances Underpinning a Bold Vision
Anchored by compelling performances from Maudi Ilung, Mandla Gaduka, and Daniel Janks, Belinda exemplifies Kasende’s talent for merging the fantastical with stark realism. Produced by Sisanda Henna Films, the film embodies an authentic independent spirit, nurtured through a creative partnership with the esteemed actor Sisanda Henna.
The HACC Festival culminated in a spirited awards ceremony, where accolades were presented in celebration of innovation, excellence, and vision in African filmmaking. Isaac Kasende took home the award for Top Short Film for Belinda—a significant milestone in his journey, and a proud moment for the local film community.
Homecoming Centre in Cape Town.
As we reflect on this powerful edition of the festival, there is a profound sense of gratitude for the filmmakers, audiences, partners, and communities who contributed to its success. The HACC Festival has proven itself to be more than an assembly of films—it is a movement dedicated to nurturing a sustainable film industry and elevating African cinematic excellence.
From Johannesburg to the world stage, Isaac Kasende’s win is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, resilience, and storytelling converge. His work is a beacon in the creative renaissance sweeping through Cape Town and beyond—and we eagerly anticipate his future contributions.
For interviews, screeners, or media inquiries, please contact:
Sisanda Henna Films
media@sisandahenna.co.za
