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Ronnie Apteker made his debut as a film producer with Purpose. He was born in Cape Town, South Africa in 1967 and attended high school and university in Johannesburg where he graduated Cum Laude from the University of the Witwatersrand with an M.Sc in Computer Science in 1994. Apteker studied computer science for nine years and started the country's first Internet service provider in 1993. Internet Solutions (IS) has been one of South Africa's most successful post-apartheid businesses, employing over 500 people and winning numerous technology awards.
Ronnie has authored a number of papers that have been published both locally and internationally. In February 1994, Ronnie was invited to present a paper in San Jose, California on Distributed Multimedia at the annual meeting of the International Society for Optical Engineering. This paper was subsequently published in the SPIE/IEEE proceedings. Apteker is the author of TRADING SPACES and co-author, with Jeremy Ord; of the best seller DO YOU LOVE IT IN THE MORNINGS? Apteker writes for the newspapers regularly about the philosophy of business. Apteker sponsored and produced the successful Laugh Out Loud fundraiser in 2002.
He has subsequently helped produce 5 other features films. The Reeker movie is his latest endeavour. Apteker also sits on various boards and committees within South Africa and is involved in many charity organizations and fundraising initiatives.
How did your involvement with Reeker happen?
I was living in Los Angeles during 2000 and 2001 when we were busy with PURPOSE. I met Tina and Dave then and we became friends. Tina and I had some mutual friends and associates and someone introduced us.
What excited you about Reeker?
It is a humble project, with good people, and a great vision.
Why do you think the film has enjoyed success?
Because it is well made, and it is fun to watch and it works.
The South African connection in Reeker is rather funny. When she replies that nothing scares her because she's from Johannesburg?
This is a classic moment !
Reeker is shown 'digitally' in South Africa? This is a first for a feature film?
Reeker is the first film in South Africa to be released on a wide digital basis. In other words, it is the first commercial digital release - it is a very important milestone for the local movie industry. If the numbers work it is going to set a very significant precedent here in South Africa. We will know very soon.
How does this work?
The film is housed on a server at each Nu Metro movie complex and projected from a digital projector. There are no expensive 35 mm reels (prints).
How does this differ from reel screenings?
The costs are the real differential here. From a picture quality perceptive, most people won't be able to tell the difference.
Where does your interest in computers and technology come from?
Ever since I can remember I was always interesting in electronics. I used to build things from circuit diagrams when I was 6 years old.
Did you ever see yourself as becoming a successful producer? How did this happen?
I don't see myself as a successful producer, so I can't really answer this question. I see myself as a driven and determined producer who has learnt some very hard lessons. I feel though that I am on a good path and the Reeker was a great step forwards.
Your love for film, where does this come from?
The same with my love of electronics and technology. It is all about creating magic and about inspiring people.
What do you as a producer look for in a screenplay?
Something that talks to your heart. And also something that is realistic with respect to the financial parameters.
What do you think makes a good producer?
Someone who listens.
Do you have a favourite genre? Why?
I love comedy the most. I love making people laugh.
Your views on the South African film industry?
It is in its infancy - there is so much opportunity to pioneer new ground and to push the envelope.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Dave and Tina Payne are what inspired me here. They are all heart. Soulful and humble. And talented.
Emerging writers in South Africa are told that they should always keep budget in mind when writing a script. Do you agree? Why?
I think write from the heart, then look at the budget later. If the script doesn't make financial sense then make it work or start over.
Any advice for writers in South Africa who are interested in writing a screenplay?
Live life, the stories will come. And listen - we all need perspective when writing.
Can you name the obvious mistakes in new screenplays that causes you to lose interest in the project?
Too much exposition. Too much description and direction. Characters that sound like they come from soap operas. Stories that are complicated. Genres that are out of touch with our financial realities. For example, don't waste time writing a science fiction story - this is Hollywood's baby - you don't see science fiction coming from Australia or England or Brazil or Italy etc. - there is a reason for this.
Any future projects?
Footskating 101 - this is the best project ever - go take a look at www.footskating.com - The film was made by Thomas Ferreira and Brendan Jack, and they have totally got this right - I love it !!!
COPYRIGHT © 2006 Daniel E. Dercksen
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