According to producers, the movie was created as a result of frustration from the site’s 30,000 members who are hungry for local content.
The hour-long movie — “Mapona Volume 1” — was shot over a three-day period according to producer Tau Morena who also runs the website that began operation in 2008 as a network of former university friends who shared sexual experiences by posting personal photos and videos.
Morena said the film was shot POV style “in a manner that gives the viewer an opportunity to feel as if they are part of the action.”
The cast includes talent pooled from an open call audition for volunteers posted on the site. However, the performers were ultimately paid for their scenes.
Reports said talent was screened for HIV/AIDS and other STDs and the men used condoms.
“There were breaks of up to four hours during shooting allowing cast members to relax. The inexperienced actors were initially a bit nervous, but not overly concerned about their naked bodies appearing on screen,” according to the movie's producer.
Although no dollar amount was reported, the producers said making the film wasn’t cheap.
Morena said site members are spread across South Africa, the U.K. and the U.S.
He noted that public perception about porn in South Africa remains a challenge, but “Sondeza had not created adult entertainment — it merely localized something that even the elders were consuming behind closed doors.”
