Intersexions
John Hopkins Health and Education South Africa, Curious Pictures Pty Ltd, Ants Multimedia, SABC Education
Intersexions is an outstanding blend of entertainment, education, information and public service. In 26 episodes, the series presented the interrelated stories of sexual relationships across age, geographic region, racial and class boundaries. A range of risk scenarios highlighted the many circumstances that might lead to HIV infection and AIDS. Situations, characters and social contexts created a “ma”? used to explore and answer the key question, “Do you know your lovers’ lovers?” Every indication, from ratings to research, indicates that the series reached its intended audience of young South Africans. A million conversations appeared on Facebook during the series’ run along with tens of thousands of tweets. The 26th and final episode, a docu-drama, drew all the stories together and demonstrated connections among characters, their choices, and the outcomes of their sexual encounters. This remarkable episode is “narrated” by the smooth-talking, seductive “voice” of the HIV virus. Clever writing, filled with wit and irony, allows “The Virus” to present chilling examinations of sexual behavior and its consequences. “I love sex,” The Virus says. “Sex is power. Sex is mystery. Without sex we‘d never meet.” And later, “Unlike you I have no jealousy. I love sharing. Sharing is caring. So please share the love. It‘s the only way I can survive.” For engaging audiences with superb production values, stinging dialogue, medical details and a genuinely powerful message, Intersexions receives a Peabody Award.
PRIMARY PRODUCTION CREDITS
Executive Producers: Harriet Gavshon, Mariki Van der Walt, Uzanenkosi Mahlangu. Producers: Karima Effendi. Line Producer: Stephanie Coetzee. Directors: John Trengove, Catharine Cooke, John Trengove, Nonny Malete, Pheello P.J. Makosholo, Zuko Nodada. Creative Director: Rolie Nikiwe. Head Writer: Brent Quinn. Writers: Gillian Breslin, Chisanga Kabinga, Linda Bere, Mamello Lebona, Denzel Edgar, Karima Effendi, Uzanenkosi Mahlangu. Cast: Noxee Maqhashalala, Mothusi Magano, Sidumo Mtshali, Akin Omotoso, Thami Ramaphakela, Lerato Tlhapi, Thato Molamu, Lele Ledwaba, Yule Masiteng, Sefako Mohalanyane, Wandile Molebatse, Dineo Lusenga, Taryn Bennett, Fezile Makhanya, Meren Reddy, Jo-Anne Galloway, Denzel Edgar, Litha Bam, Duncan Johnson, Bonnie Bouman, Quanita Adams, Frank Malaba, Pulane Rampoana, Bongani Gumede, Molobane Mbatha, Mthunzi Ntoyi, Gabisile Tshabalala, Mxolisi Majozi, Siyabonga Radebe, Lungelo Dhladla, Nolwazi Shange, Ruth Cele, Putla Sehlapelo, Mbali Ntuli. Director of Photography: Trevor Calverley. Editor: Melanie Jankes-Golden