Dr Dianna Moodley, a Sociolinguist, from the Faculty of Arts and Design Research Coordinator-was deeply involved in the archival research and writing for the film, The Cane Cutter which was released at cinema theatres countrywide on Friday, 21 November 2025.
The story pertains to a young woman of colour, married at a young age 21, has to beg, plead and fight for the opportunity to pursue her career, while the husband is oblivious to the profound self-sacrifices she makes to sustain her family. She faces multiple hurdles preventing her from accessing amazing opportunities. This pattern is patent throughout the movie-deeply meaningful to all ages and especially impacting on changing perceptions of the power of a woman.
Sharing on her research culminating into this production. She indicated that this work tells a tragic love story rooted in both the past and the present, set against the backdrop of South Africa’s journey of nation building, where Indians played and continue to play a colossal role. “The research is contextualised amidst a political climate where social ills are at an all-time high. Within the context of utter decay and corruption of present-day South African government, the aim of the movie is to make a clarion call to especially our youth, to draw from the resilience of their forefathers in re-building the nation,” she explained.
Dr Moodley relayed that the purpose is to provoke a rebirth of activism towards improving the lives and livelihoods of people. “The film augments the importance of history in providing remarkable insights into the social and political struggles of the past, including the fight for human rights, democracy, equality and justice,” she shared.
Sharing his congratulatory wishes to the film crew was DUT alumnus Ashish Misra, an established actor who was part of the movie and who had embarked on his exhilarating journey to Hollywood in October 2024, to study at the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Arts Academy (AMDA) after receiving a full scholarship. “What an incredible milestone it is for the cast, crew and every single person who poured their heart into bringing the story to life. You should all feel incredibly proud this film is something special, and honestly South Africa is not ready for the wave it’s about to create,” he shared excitedly.
For alumna Jarnell Meghan Kisten, she shared that as The Cane Cutter made its debut, her wish is that audiences feel the emotion, dedication, and purpose poured into every scene. “I’m truly grateful to have helped bring this story to life, and I hope it leaves a lasting impact on everyone who watches it,” she said.
Pictured: Dr Dianna Moodley, at the movie premiere.
Waheeda Peters
