Playing Dad
Mpendulo (Vincent Mahlape) is a no-nonsense, old-school carpenter who suddenly finds himself in charge of his young son, Ndumiso. As Mpendulo fumbles his way through snack times and storybooks, he discovers that play isn't just for kids; it’s the glue that binds fathers and sons. But just as their bond begins to grow, a crisis at Ndumiso’s ECD centre puts everything at risk.
Will Mpendulo break tradition and step into a role few fathers dare to take on?
Playing Dad is one of the Heartlines Fathers Matter films and is in isiZulu, with subtitles in English.
The film discussion guide for Playing Dad will be available soon. You can find it on this page as soon as it's ready.
Watch the movie
If you need to use the film offline for a showing or discussion group, you can download it below. Please note that copyright applies to all the Fathers Matter films.
Read our interview with director Eric Mogale
Meet Eric Mogale, the director of Manskap and Playing Dad, from the Heartlines’ Fathers Matter Film Series. Eric has worked as a creative director, director and producer for a number of well-known South African productions.
"I didn’t ask you to watch him Mpendulo, I asked you to play with him."
Film Gallery
Production Information
- Running Time: 33min
- Release Date: June 2025
- Rating: PG
- Genre: Drama
- Language: isiZulu
- Director: Eric Mogale
- Cast: Vincent Mahlape, Siyamthanda Nxumalo, Neo Ntlatleng, Luyanda Mzazi
- Written by: Zolisa Sigwanda and Harriet Perlman
- Producers: Harriet Perlman, Lebohang Netshiozwi