
31 May 2017
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’s your #ShowmaxAddiction?
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 »
Original African stories by local talent

The ABC Killer
The ABC Killer is a twisty true-crime documentary series about serial killer Moses Sithole. Stream from 22 July on Showmax.

What if we believed the best can come from here?
Let’s rewrite the rules of what it means to be local.

Untied S1
Untied explores the deeply personal and often complex experience of divorce, told through the voices of women who have lived it. Stream now, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Reckless S1
Reckless follows a pair of young brothers who find themselves at a crossroads when a tragic accident changes their lives forever. Stream now, with new episodes every Monday and Tuesday.

The Mommy Club NBO
The Mommy Club NBO is the fifth instalment of the record-breaking Mommy Club franchise. Stream now, with new episodes every Friday.

Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.

The Real Housewives of Durban Seasons 1-5
Our eThekwini queens are back with a brand-new season. Stream Season 5 now, with new episodes every Friday.
SA celebs open up about divorce on Untied
The action heats up on Empini
More Mzansi gold

Obstruction S1
A fiery netball superstar dreams of being noticed by the Gauteng provincial coach and playing for the national team… until her mom uproots her to a new school.

Khanyisa Jam Jam opens up in Laugh Africa Comedy Club special
Comedian Khanyisa Jam Jam talks about being part of the Laugh Africa Comedy Club special, now available to stream on Showmax.

Date My Family S1-12
Find your next bae based solely on the impression their family gives. That’s the format of Date My Family S1-12 on Showmax.

Laugh Africa Comedy Club
A high-energy celebration of stand-up, spotlighting the continent’s finest comedic talent and international guests, straight from the iconic Laugh Africa Comedy Festival.