Award-winning film 'Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight' available on local streaming platform

The South African feature film "Don’t Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight" has achieved great success since its release last August. 

It has since premiered at the prestigious 49th Toronto International Film Festival, Zurich Film Festival and even won the Best Feature Film award at the 2025 Durban International Film Festival.

Soon after, the film was picked up by Sony Pictures Classics to be distributed globally.

Now, South African's can watch the movie on Showmax.

Produced by Anele Mdoda's Rose and Oaks Media, the film lists renowned comedian Trevor Noah as an executive producer.

Producer Helena Spring praised the duo, saying: "Anele brought infectious energy, a deep understanding of the audience and bold leadership. Trevor has reached that that’s both global and grounded.

"Having them on board elevated the project in every way ... The entire team was deeply invested in the emotional integrity of the project."

Helmed by Embeth Davidtz, who made her directorial debut, the movie has gained attention for its intriguing story, stellar cast and unique cinematography.

"It’s a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of Rhodesia just as it transitions to Zimbabwe, at the end of a long-running war," shared Spring. 

She added: "It is told through the eyes of a young girl navigating family, identity and survival. It’s raw, funny, heartbreaking and deeply human."

The movie is based on the New York Times best-seller of the same name by Alexandra Fuller. It features 8-year-old newcomer Lexi Venter in the leading role of Bobo, while Davidtz portrays Nicola, a mother filled with grief.

The rest of the cast includes Zikhona Bali, Fumani N Shilubana, Rob van Vuuren and Anina Reed.

Spring praised the performances of the cast, saying: "Rob and Zikhona brought such depth and nuance, they understood the emotional terrain so well, and so instinctively, that they instantly bypassed all other contenders. Both gave amazing performances in the film.

"Lexi Venter, our young lead, was extraordinary. She is a naturally free spirit and emotionally fearless, and she anchors the film perfectly. It was fantastically helpful having a director with extensive acting experience and a deep, intuitive understanding of performance."

The award-winning film delves into themes of family dynamics, resilience, race, belonging and that bittersweet tension between humour and hardship.

"It’s about growing up in a fractured world and still finding moments of joy and connection. It’s a story from our continent, and from Southern Africa, messy, beautiful, painful and funny. It’s a reminder of where we’ve been and how far we’ve come. And it’s told with honesty and heart," said Spring.

Speaking about the film's reception, she shared: "Honestly, it’s incredibly affirming.

The whole team, and particularly Davidtz, our director, poured so much heart into this film, and to see audiences respond with such warmth and recognition is thrilling. It’s a reminder of why we tell stories in the first place." 

Spring went on to explain the value of local stories, saying: "Local stories carry our emotional truth. They reflect our lived experience, our humour, our heartbreak. And when told well, they resonate far beyond our borders. We don’t need to mimic what happens elsewhere, we need to honour what’s ours."

• "Don’t Let’s Go To The Dogs Tonight" is currently streaming on Showmax.