The Ballad of Robbie de Wee

Len van Jaarsveld used to be on the top of his game. As one of the country’s leading music producers he had it all: the stars, the hits, the connections and the. But it all came crashing down: his wife left him, his bands abandoned him, the creditors moved in and he found himself on the street with nothing. As he’s about to hit rock bottom Len is introduced to a rising new star Robbie de Wee. A shy young man with an amazing natural talent, this youngster has success written all over him. Len sees this kid as a ticket back into the music industry and he’s determined to make him a star. He takes Robbie on, organizing tours, publicity, music videos and helps Robbie climb the ladder to stardom while rediscovering his own formidable business talents. But when a young girl is found dead in the singer’s hotel room, Len goes into overdrive to protect his star from the media and the authorities.

Directed by Darrell James Roodt, The Ballad of Robbie de Wee leans on a strong ensemble — Neil Sandilands, Marno Van der Merwe, Anna-Mart van der Merwe — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about thriller titles of 2013.