It’s not every day a film made in a humble studio in Embo, a small township in KwaZulu-Natal, gets selected to premiere at one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. But that’s exactly what has happened with Treasure Hunt, the debut feature from CAP Studios, which will screen at the 2025 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) to be held in June in Miami Beach, Florida.
Filmed in the heart of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, Treasure Hunt is a story made possible by a community that gave their all. Locals offered their talents, homes, cars and their hearts to make it happen. Even the cast of well-known South African stars, including Moopi Mothibeli, Muzi Mthabela, Trevor Gumbi, Zane Meas and Samukele Mkhezie, stepped in without hesitation, giving freely of their time to support the dream. The result is a film born from collaboration and passion, now ready for the international stage.
The story follows a reformed ex-con who finds a stash of jewellery in a bin, only to get caught in the crosshairs of the criminals determined to get it back. But beyond the crime plot is a deeper message about choices, redemption and second chances.
Written and directed by talented Chim Onyebilanma, with incredible visuals by international cinematographer Isaac Alongi, the film is proof that powerful stories can come from the most unexpected places and travel far beyond expectations to the world stage.
“This film was born from a desire to tell stories that matter, from places people don’t usually look,” says Chim, who also founded CAP Studios. “This is the studio’s first feature film, and we’re proud to show what’s possible when a community comes together and believes in something bigger.”
Treasure Hunt is one of the few South African films ever to be selected for the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), a globally recognised event that celebrates Black talent and offers a pathway to the Oscars. Chim, who will be attending the festival, says the film will premiere on Saturday, 14 June 2025, at 8:15pm at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
“Treasure Hunt is about making the right decisions, even when it’s hard,” adds veteran actor Zane Meas, best known for his roles in 7de Laan and Isidingo. “And I believe people are going to love it.”
Executively produced by Frances Dlongolo, Kike Adeniyi and Chim Onyebilanma, the film’s success is a testament to the power of local storytelling, and what’s possible when talent is nurtured where it lives.
CAP Studios is already working on its next project – and if this debut is anything to go by, the world should be watching.