Rapper Senzo “Kwesta” Vilakazi and choreographer Bontle Modiselle-Moloi have stepped into lead roles in the highly anticipated film Piano Love, which blends music, love, and tragedy to tell the story of Sipho and Lerato. The film, shot in an impressive eight days, had its exclusive screening at Hyde Park on August 29, with Modiselle-Moloi and Kwesta walking the red carpet in style.
Speaking to IOL, Modiselle-Moloi shared her excitement and challenges in taking on the role of Lerato, a complex character navigating tough life decisions. “The time and effort we put in is incredible. It was a lot of pressure, I will be honest,” she said, reflecting on the intense shooting schedule. Despite the pressure, Modiselle-Moloi focused on being authentic and bringing depth to her character. “I just wanted to be honest and authentic, and I’m pretty sure that people will resonate with the character.”
Lerato’s journey, filled with risks and life-changing decisions, mirrored some of Modiselle-Moloi’s personal experiences, allowing her to connect deeply with the role. She hopes audiences will find meaning in Lerato’s story and how she navigates her challenges.
Though Modiselle-Moloi is known for her dance roles, she revealed a desire to take on more varied characters in the future. “The next role I take on, I hope has no dance,” she said, expressing her wish to continue exploring different facets of acting beyond dance.
For Kwesta, Piano Love marks his acting debut, a significant departure from his long-standing music career. Initially hesitant to take on the role, he admitted, “I was scared. I’m not even going to act tough.” However, the rapper embraced the opportunity and now views it as the beginning of a new chapter in his career, potentially pursuing formal acting training.
Amapiano music, central to the film’s narrative, features some of the genre’s biggest hits. Director Mandla N revealed that securing the rights to the music was a complex and costly process, but ultimately worth the effort to authentically showcase the spirit of amapiano.
After the successful Johannesburg premiere, Piano Love made its international debut in London on September 2, introducing amapiano’s vibrant culture to a global audience.
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