A British film that tackles issues of homophobia and coming to terms with one’s sexuality is coming to South Africa courtesy of the British Council.

The Out in Africa South African Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, in Johannesburg and Cape Town in September, serves as a platform for discussion about the situation of lesbian, gay, transgender and intersex individuals (LGBTIs) in a young democracy.

The British Council has sponsored the film-makers’ trip to South Africa. Director Simon Pearce and writers Darren Flaxstone and Christian Martin will be talking to film students and audiences about the process behind their production.

‘To be supported by the British Council in bringing our film to South Africa, on top of being selected, is an absolute thrill and honour - and we cannot wait to hear what reaction it provokes,’ says Pearce.

Shank explores the life of Cal, an 18-year-old gang member whose life revolves around drugs, sex and random acts of violence. He also has a secret - he is attracted to other men, in particular his fellow gang member Jonno.

Gang leader Nessa suspects that there is something going on between them and stirs up a conflict. Trouble erupts when Cal rescues a French boy from being beaten up by the gang.

The film has already received an international award. According to the 21-year-old director, the crew is overwhelmed by the film’s success and the international support shown for their achievements.

‘We shall be bringing their shared sense of pride with us to South Africa,’ says Pearce.

Writer and producer Martin says: ‘We wanted to make a drama that could cross over to all audiences, forcing them to confront and question a very current reality, but one that still spoke specifically to a core audience.’

According to Pearce, having the British Council involved in the film provides some comfort that there are organisations that value the achievements of aspiring British film-makers.

‘Being associated with the British Council has given the film a seal of approval and is a badge of honour that we’ll wear with pride.

‘We hope this is the beginning of a strong relationship and that we can take our association forward and explore all other opportunities that might be available to us with the British Council,’ Pearce says.

According to Pearce, the decision to make the film came about because other film-makers were shying away from such stories.

‘Other films are aiming wholly at a gay audience instead of seeking a broader reach of viewers. We wanted to highlight things that were really happening out there, however uncomfortable the reality might be.’

The film also aimed to provide a training ground for a selection of young film-makers.

‘Both cast and crew were mentored through the process of making a feature film by a team of seasoned professionals from the industry, headed by Christian and Darren, who have been in the business for nearly 20 years,’ Pearce says.

This youthful team provides an example of their generation’s acceptance of difference, as they are all straight but still enthusiastic about the subject matter and story being told.

For more information about Shank visit this page. To find out more about our upcoming events and programmes click here, to find out what’s been happening in Africa read our News in Africa Section.