The Prodigal is an experimental look at sexual identity, redemption and grace. This short film tells the story of a young Mark as he is caught between two worlds, the world of his Christian father and that of a beguiling young man, Dean.

Director, Michael-John Phillip, artfully displays this state of decision onscreen by following Mark along a vivid white beach and into the waves. Tobie Smuts, Director of Photography, captures the onscreen emotion amidst the backdrop of beautiful beaches of the Western Cape, South Africa.

The parallel visual interpretation provides a unique and important look at the issues that face our young generation, and the question that Mark – and each one of us – must face in this life. Are we ever in something so deep, or so far, that it is impossible to get back to shore? This experimental drama was written by Michael-John and Howard James Fyvie.

In order to create an authentic story writers took their time in developing the script. Michael-John spoke about the bottom-of-the-pit moments in life. He said, “I think we can all relate to these moments. They mark our lives.”

Local actor, Kyle St. John Peters, captures this state of indecision in the lead character, Mark. Producer, Naomi Meyer said, “I trust that the film will come across as real and insightful.”

Set in Cape Town, South Africa, The Prodigal was filmed in eight locations across the city and the Western Cape. Along with the beautiful beaches, locals will recognise the streets of the city that forms a vibrant background to the short film. The Prodigal is part of The Love Bombs Film Festival that will be showing at the Labia on Orange in Cape Town from 2 – 9 August 2012. One of three short films showing each night during the festival, The Prodigal, will draw viewers into Mark’s journey throughout the film.

The Love Bombs is a project by the Film Kru Ministry of Joshua Generation Church. This project by local filmmakers involved more than 250 volunteers from across Cape Town who came together over the past year with the hope of changing lives. Also showing at the Love Bombs Festival will be The Second Day and iBalaclava.

For more information about The Prodigal, behind the scenes info and booking details view The Love Bombs website www.lovebombs.co.za or join the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lovebombsfilms

Issued by Naomi Meyer