Stellenbosch actress takes on a villainous role in 'The Meeting'

Stellenbosch actress Glemorene Jacobs is among a group of local artists who star in a thrilling short film, The Meeting, which will be released on Tubi TV and YouTube on Thursday, October 30.

The cast’s talents will also be showcased internationally, as the 19-minute film will be screened at the 67th Zinebi Film Festival in Spain from Friday, November 21 to Friday, November 28.

The Meeting centres around the character “Sebbie de Kock” who experiences strange blackouts, during which his mind fabricates graphic events that make him suspicious of his wife, sister Carol, and friends.

Convinced that they are plotting against him and that his wife is having an affair, Sebbie calls a meeting, which leads to a brutal confrontation that ends in bloodshed.

The thriller, which was produced by Red Moon Performing Arts, was written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Nic Matthee.

The cast includes Marley and Riley Valentine from Mitchell’s Plain, Nicole Barkhuizen from Ravensmead, and Justin Malgas from Brackenfell. Marley, 9, is the youngest cast member.

Ms Jacobs, 33, plays Carol, whom Sebbie believes is the mastermind behind his troubles.

“I never anticipated that I would take on a major supporting role as a villain; it was intense and highly expressive.

“Delving into this character provided me with insights into how the character relates to me in terms of delivering a powerful performance," she said.

Ms Jacobs’ love for performing arts was cultivated during her teenage years when she took part in drama and Eisteddfod at high school.

This is her first major supporting role in a short film, having previously played only minor roles.

“Jacobs delivers a remarkably powerful performance throughout the film, making it evident who the true antagonist is,” Mr Matthee said.

While she plays the role of a fierce character in The Meeting, Ms Jacobs embodies humility in her personal life.

She encouraged women to dare to dream and to play their part in transforming the performing arts in the country.

"To entertain and inspire is one thing, but it’s something else to take a risk and leap of faith towards your goals for personal growth.

"Cultivate a positive mindset, develop habits, and explore your abilities. Coupled with a strong willpower and self-motivation, you will be able to achieve your goals,” she said.

Ms Jacobs said the late actress Crystal Donna Roberts was a huge inspiration.

She now hopes to inspire young people to harness their God-given talents and create projects that will assist them in identifying their career paths.

“I want to establish a platform that brings together youth from diverse communities so that they can discover and use their unique abilities to lay a strong foundation built on confidence,” she added.

Filmed during winter, The Meeting turns the spotlight on mental health challenges and human isolation. 

Mr Matthee said the cast encountered several nervous moments on set as they had to navigate simulated gunshot wounds, handling props, and the likes.

Real-life police officer Thurstom Mesimela added authenticity to the action scenes.

"The cast experienced the magic of filmmaking. Becoming an effective team was one of the most rewarding moments," he said.