The Montreal World Film Festival was the first festival that invited one of my films to be screened. It was called THE STICK and me and my film-making buddies were a bunch of committed lunatics running around the bush in South Africa shooting an anti-war movie and the next thing I was on the stage in Montreal with a very, very pretty girl introducing me. I even remember her name, Mercedes, like the equally beautiful car. Anyway, it was an overwhelming experience, not only to see your movie with such a grand audience-we were the opening night film, I seem to remember!-but also because you got to interact with other film-makers, emerging or recognized! I'll never forget meeting Vincent Ward - boy, I was such a fan of VIGIL and now I was speaking to its creator! - or sharing a taxi with Jane Birkin from the airport (the fantasy of anyone my generation come true -"Je t'aime, indeed")

But, most importantly, it was inspiring that a film I'd made in my country with passion and commitment had a place in the world as well! It certainly encouraged me to try harder and I think you for that opportunity!

Keep loving movies!

Bestest wishes!
Darrell James Roodt

Invit� du festival en / Festival guest in: 1988

Film pr�sent� / Film presented:

1988

• THE STICK
• Comp�tition officielle / Official competition
• Film d'ouverture / Opening Night Presentation