KOPEDI APHANE
Director of the Short Film Breaking Free
Kopedi Aphane was a Finalist in Season 1 of the Russian Film Festival South Africa International, now known as Imperiya Film Festival South Africa International. His film Breaking Free, written by Nthabiseng E. Letsoela, is a powerful and personal story inspired by true events and rooted in Aphane’s own life experience, shining a light on one of South Africa’s most urgent issues.
BREAKING FREE
The film tells the story of Lerato, a woman who has suffered in silence under the grip of an abusive partner named Zulu. After discovering she is pregnant, Lerato finds the courage to leave and search for a safer life. But Zulu refuses to let her go, forcing a violent confrontation. Their neighbour, Pule, a young man haunted by the memory of his own mother’s murder, is determined to stop Zulu before it’s too late.
Kopedi Aphane – Director.
Nthabiseng E Letsoela – Writer.
Kopedi Aphane – Producer.
Aleš Pavlin – Producer.
Matsatsi Kgamedi – Key Cast “Lerato”
Shane Sibanyoni – Key Cast “Zulu”
Tshepo Chotelo – Key Cast “Pule”
ROOTED IN REALITY
For Kopedi, this story is more than just fiction. He grew up in an environment where gender-based violence was a harsh and regular reality. The death of his cousin due to gender-based violence was the driving force behind the creation of Breaking Free. Every scene, every frame, carries the emotional weight of lived experience, making this film as much a memorial as it is a message.
VISUAL STORYTELLING WITH IMPACT
Kopedi’s direction blends picture, sound, lighting, and performance into a striking cinematic language, using free-flowing camera movement to create realism and intimacy while drawing audiences into Lerato’s world. Breaking Free goes beyond entertainment, provoking reflection and emotion while reminding us of the urgent and ongoing fight against gender-based violence, a story of pain, survival, and resistance.
ABOUT KOPEDI APHANE
Kopedi Aphane is a visionary director and producer known for his innovative approach and commitment to storytelling. As founder of APN Pictures (PTY) LTD, he has worked extensively with local TV networks, producing content that informs and inspires. His studies in TV and Film, Information Technology, and Project Management give him a unique blend of technical and creative skills, enabling him to deliver work that is both emotionally rich and professionally crafted.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR KOPEDI APHANE?
Kopedi has just completed a feature film titled The Other-Other Woman and is currently working on a short documentary about immigration in South Africa. His projects continue to explore timely and socially relevant issues with a fresh and cinematic lens.