In an effort to raise awareness about domestic violence, substance abuse and depression, Neil Oortman, of Belhar, has made a film based on his life.
His Plan, produced and written by the 48-year-old teacher, premiered at the Cinecentre cinema at GrandWest Casino in Goodwood at the weekend.
Mr Oortman says the film explores the hardships he faced growing up – including sinking into depression after failing matric – and how he overcame them.
He hopes his story will inspire viewers to not give up and remind them that God has a plan for their lives.
The film features amateur actors from Parow, Elsies River, Belhar, Delft and Eerste River. It’s set in Elsies River where Mr Oortman grew up.
Mr Oortman says he was inspired to write the film in 2021 during the Covid-19 lockdown.
“One day I heard about a case of suicide in an underprivileged community, it inspired me to write my life story… little did I know that the film would make it to the big screen.“
Mr Oortman says he took a leap of faith producing this film having never studied film or acting.
“I gathered all my experience by working as an extra on other productions, at times even without payment.“
He now plans to take the film on tour to churches and schools.