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Int'l Business Times
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Int'l Business Times
Cannes Honors INactive: A Film that Moves Audiences and Societies into Action
Films flood the screens daily, but few stand out for their ability to offer tangible, real-world solutions. These rare cinematic works do more than entertain. They awaken, educate, and activate. Among such impactful works is "INactive, America's Silent Killer," produced by filmmaker Karl André Talbot. This documentary, which sheds light on the widespread yet under-discussed epidemic of physical inactivity, has earned the distinction of being presented at the prestigious World Film Festival in Cannes - Remember the Future. Karl André Talbot Scheduled to screen just before the festival's awards ceremony, INactive isn't simply another feature on the roster. It's a statement. The festival, known for celebrating global narratives that explore human rights, environmental urgency, and social justice, selected Talbot's documentary due to its relevance and resonance with today's global health realities. Talbot shares: "It's a major honor for us to be recognized. Every time I make a film, I challenge myself to go deeper, to do better, and to spend whatever resources I have wisely. So when people watch the film and say it made them stop and think, that tells me I'm doing something right. The fact that INactive is inspiring people to change is the greatest reward of all." Inactive delves into the web of cultural evolution, technological convenience, and institutional shifts that have gradually erased movement from people's lives. The West is a hub of technological brilliance and economic prowess. Ironically, it's also the epicenter of an unfolding health crisis, as demonstrated by the rise of sedentary lifestyles and poor nutritional education. Through compelling narratives, expert commentary, and stark revelations, the film unpacks how entire generations are growing up without basic habits of movement. Yet, rather than demonizing the modern world, Talbot offers a refreshing take. His film promotes the idea that the tools shaping can also be repurposed to rekindle healthier, more engaged lives. Following the recognition INactive has received, Talbot is now developing a sequel. Where the first film exposed the silent epidemic, the next will provide a clear path forward. This upcoming project, currently in production, expands the themes of INactive into a multifaceted, solution-oriented documentary series designed to catalyze action. With insights drawn from global health experts, educators, psychologists, and tech innovators, the sequel aims to serve as a guide for change for individuals, institutions, corporations, and policymakers. The film will tackle solutions across the education, business, and government sectors. One episode will dive into how schools can restructure their days to ensure at least 30 minutes of movement daily. Another segment will focus on corporations, highlighting how workplace wellness is a necessity. The final pillar will illustrate how communities worldwide have re-engineered access to play, socialization, and physical development through school programming, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships. A primary theme in the new film is the reimagining of people's relationship with technology. "It's not the smartphone that's the issue. It's the way we've taught kids to use it," he explains. Talbot's film argues for teaching them how to use technology in ways that enhance physical, nutritional, and cognitive well-being. This philosophy extends to artificial intelligence, educational apps, fitness tools, and digital wellness programs that can serve as allies rather than adversaries in the fight for better health. One of the most ambitious elements of the sequel is its integration with educational rollouts in collaboration with initiatives like PHIT Canada, a nonprofit founded by Talbot. These programs emphasize early intervention, bringing daily physical activity and nutrition education back into the school environment. Talbot and his team found through real-world studies that when kids are given the tools to be active during the school day, the effects ripple outward. Students begin teaching their parents, igniting changes at home and, eventually, in entire communities. "What struck me most is seeing the roles reversed. Kids are motivating their parents to get active, eat better, and live more fully," Talbot shares. The growing global impact of Talbot's work is evident. That reach is a result of Talbot's unconventional and deeply human filmmaking approach. If traditional documentary makers enter production with a rigid script, Talbot takes a research-first, script-later approach. He meets with experts not to direct them but to listen. "I don't go in with an agenda," he explains. "I approach it like a researcher without a hypothesis. I let the story emerge through real conversation." It's this openness, this invitation to speak rather than perform, that leads to the raw insights forming the backbone of his films. This creative process has led Talbot to international acclaim . While the sequel to INactive is underway, Talbot is also preparing for another vital film, "Water: Our Last Drop." It aims to highlight innovative, science-backed solutions to water scarcity, contamination, and environmental exploitation. Karl André Talbot's works are a call to action. With INactive, he started a conversation. With its sequel, he's building a roadmap. Ultimately, with every frame he captures, he's proving that cinema can be one of the most powerful tools for change.
The Herald
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald
Limpopo filmmaker wins best African film award at Cannes Film Festival
Limpopo filmmaker Murena Emmanuel Netshitangani has won best African film award at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival in France for his film Lubunyu . The film has also been selected for screening at the World Film Festival in Cannes. Filmed at Ha-Khakhu Makuleni in Limpopo, Lubunyu , which translates as 'the naked intruder', is based on a true story with fictionalised elements. It delves into the heart of a village torn between tradition and change, exploring themes of justice, deception and identity. The film features a star-studded cast, including Tshamano Sebe, Macdonald Ndou, Elsie Rasalanavho, Hangwani Ramakuwela, Nokukhanya Luthuli, Azwidohwi Tshirangwana and Murendeni Ramunenyiwa. It competed with some of the best African movies, such as the Nigerian film My Father's Shadow . After his win, the 34-year-old TUT alumnus took to Facebook to celebrate the victory. 'From the timeless mountains of Khakhu Makuleni, a name shall now echo across the world,' he said. 'What once was a patient waiting game has blossomed into a triumph — we bask in the glory of history: the second professional Venda film ever made. Who could have foreseen that it would all lead to this singular moment in time? We celebrate a monumental achievement — a boy from Venda, armed with nothing but a dream and a relentless spirit, has carried the heart of Venda culture onto the grand stage of the world.' Limpopo premier Phophi Ramathuba congratulated Ṋetshiṱangani on his achievement. 'This is a defining moment for the creative sector of Limpopo and South Africa. Ṋetshiṱangani has demonstrated that dreams nurtured in the quiet villages of Venḓa can echo across the world's grandest stages. We are immensely proud of him for carrying the heart of Venda, and indeed the spirit of Limpopo, to the world,' Ramathuba said.
TimesLIVE
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Limpopo filmmaker wins best African film award at Cannes Film Festival
Limpopo filmmaker Murena Emmanuel Netshitangani has won best African film award at the 78th Annual Cannes Film Festival in France for his film Lubunyu. The film has also been selected for screening at the World Film Festival in Cannes. Filmed at Ha-Khakhu Makuleni in Limpopo, Lubunyu, which translates as 'the naked intruder', is based on a true story with fictionalised elements. It delves into the heart of a village torn between tradition and change, exploring themes of justice, deception and identity. The film features a star-studded cast, including Tshamano Sebe, Macdonald Ndou, Elsie Rasalanavho, Hangwani Ramakuwela, Nokukhanya Luthuli, Azwidohwi Tshirangwana and Murendeni Ramunenyiwa. It competed with some of the best African movies, such as the Nigerian film My Father's Shadow. After his win, the 34-year-old TUT alumnus took to Facebook to celebrate the victory. 'From the timeless mountains of Khakhu Makuleni, a name shall now echo across the world,' he said. 'What once was a patient waiting game has blossomed into a triumph — we bask in the glory of history: the second professional Venda film ever made. Who could have foreseen that it would all lead to this singular moment in time? We celebrate a monumental achievement — a boy from Venda, armed with nothing but a dream and a relentless spirit, has carried the heart of Venda culture onto the grand stage of the world.' Limpopo premier Phophi Ramathuba congratulated Ṋetshiṱangani on his achievement. 'This is a defining moment for the creative sector of Limpopo and South Africa. Ṋetshiṱangani has demonstrated that dreams nurtured in the quiet villages of Venḓa can echo across the world's grandest stages. We are immensely proud of him for carrying the heart of Venda, and indeed the spirit of Limpopo, to the world,' Ramathuba said.
Express Tribune
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Yumna Zaidi through her mother's eyes
Actor Yumna Zaidi recently shared a photograph on her Instagram account, captured by her mother, Shabana Naheed Zaidi. In the image, Yumna is seated stylishly against a serene backdrop, dressed in black trousers paired with a beige high-neck and a cosy shawl. She captioned the post: "Who can beat the photos my Ammi takes of me?" Adding a sweet postscript, she wrote, "I feel this is how she sees me: 'beautiful' and 'clean.'" The post garnered significant attention from fans, who praised Yumna's natural beauty and grace. Netizens flocked to the photos, leaving comments that highlighted the natural elegance of the shot and the evident bond between mother and daughter: "Mashallah, very pretty" and "My prettiest baby!" Earlier this year, in an interview, Yumna opened up about the profound impact of losing her father at a young age. She shared that grief has deepened her spirituality and connection with God, stating, "It is during times of grief that I have felt the closest to Allah." She also emphasised the lasting influence of her father's values, including honesty, kindness, and loyalty, which continue to guide her life and career. Yumna's cinematic debut in Nayab has garnered international acclaim. The film, which tells the story of a female cricketer overcoming gender-based challenges, won the Best Feature Film award at the South Asian International Film Festival in Florida. Yumna's portrayal of the titular character earned her the Best Actress award at the same festival. The film also received recognition at the World Film Festival in Cannes, further cementing its success. Beyond her professional achievements, Yumna maintains a close relationship with her family, often sharing moments that reflect her personal life. In January 2022, she posted a heartfelt birthday message for her mother, reciting a poem and expressing deep affection.
Arab Times
19-02-2025
- Automotive
- Arab Times
Kuwait places road safety at the heart of its development strategy: Al-Mashaan
MARRAKESH, Morocco, Feb 19: Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, the Minister of Public Works, stated on Wednesday that the State of Kuwait has prioritized road safety in its development plans and work programs. The country has been implementing road development, expansion, and maintenance projects using high-quality materials to enhance durability and extend the lifespan of its roads. Al-Mashaan made these remarks to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) during her participation in the fourth session of the Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety, which is currently taking place in Marrakesh. The conference, under the theme "Commitment for Life," has seen the participation of ministers and experts from around the world. She explained that the involvement of the Ministry of Public Works and the Roads and Land Transport Authority in this global conference aims to highlight road safety as a key issue that concerns society. Al-Mashaan emphasized Kuwait's commitment to applying the best methods and practices in infrastructure development, improving safety standards, and supporting policies and strategies aimed at reducing traffic accidents and minimizing both human and material losses. The Global Ministerial Conference, organized by the World Health Organization in collaboration with the Moroccan Ministry of Transport and Logistics, began on Tuesday and will continue for three days. The conference focuses on the challenges posed by traffic accidents and aims to propose solutions and policies aligned with the United Nations' goal of reducing deaths from traffic accidents by half by 2030. In addition to the main conference sessions, several parallel events are taking place, including the "World Film Festival" on road safety, international youth participation in road safety, and a meeting of the Global Alliance of Non-Governmental Organizations involved in road safety initiatives. The conference will conclude with the adoption of the "Marrakesh Declaration," which will form the basis for the United Nations General Assembly resolution regarding the international goal.
