Brett Michael Innes’ #ShowmaxAddiction

Brett Michael Innes is the writer and director of the award-winning film South African film Sink, and here he tells us about the films and series that inspire and entertain him.

What are you working on at the moment that you’re excited about?

I’m in writing mode at the moment so I’m typing up a storm on the next project. My last film, Sink, just finished its cinema/TV run and walked away with the SAFTA for Best Film this year.  

What made you decide to get into film/ television? 

I was the kid who used to gather his siblings and friends to make “movies”. I’d film them on our old family camera and then edit them on our VHS machine, so I guess you could say it’s in my DNA.

What’s your favourite genre of series and why? Drama? Fantasy? Comedy? 

I love all genres, from slapstick comedy to arthouse drama. I am, however, partial to an intellectual sci-fi or thriller.

What’s the last series you binge-watched and what did you love about it?

The Young Pope* was my last binge. Visually sumptuous with a very interesting lead character. I love the bold choices that the director made and while I think it may be a bit slow for the Fast and the Furious crowd, I think people who enjoy House of Cards or The Crown will enjoy this beautifully executed series. Veep** is my other binge. Can’t get enough of Selena Meyer’s dirty mouth!

What classic series do you re-watch over and over and why?  

Looking. I think I’m sitting on my fifth time watching the series and find that I identify with a different character each time I watch it. Heartfelt TV that doesn’t rely on explosions or spectacle to keep you watching. 

What’s the one show you love watching but wouldn’t admit to anyone else? 

The Real. And that’s all I’ll say about that…

What’s one classic film everyone should watch? 

Jurassic Park. It is a perfect movie! 

Which South African stars do you find inspiring and why? 

Rolanda Marais*** is an absolutely fearless actress who I love watching. She doesn’t censor her performances and really captivates the camera in a rare way. 

*The Young Pope is exclusive to Showmax. Stream or download all 10 episodes now »

**Veep Seasons 1-3 are on Showmax »

***See Rolanda Marais as lead character Sonja Daneels in the Afrikaans thriller Wolwedans in die Skemer, on Showmax »

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