What is the best thing that I love about my work? Being able to take an idea and turn it into a story that can impact audiences. The process of concept development requires carrying out a lot of research meaning reading books and talking to various people depending on the concept you want to do, in order to get your story right. I love this because I get to learn a lot in the process.
What is my idea of happiness? “Find your peace and run with it.” My believe is that if you are at peace with yourself and your environment, you won’t be in constant pressure to prove yourself to the world or be influenced to not live your truth.
What is my greatest fear? The fear of failure has turned me into a perfectionist
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself? Always giving undeserving people second chances, they end up taking advantage of my kindness
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire? For me there isn’t one specific person, I draw inspiration from various individuals and sometimes this is more projects driven,but in no particular order Shonda Rhimes , James Cameron and Christopher Nolan, Viola Davis ,Quentin Tarantiono, Mmabatho Montsho and Thabang Moleya the list is endless really.
What is my greatest extravagance? Well it will be on books and that’s if there is extra money to spend.
On what occasion would I lie? I despise liars, so I make it a point to always tell the truth. Lying hinders a lot when it comes to communication
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work? When things don’t go according to plan, but then I also understand that production isn’t always smooth sailing.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work? This would be when post production is done and you have a finished project. Post production tends to drag sometimes, more especially when working with someone who is not a team player.
If I could, what would I change about myself? Overworking maybe, learn to rest.
What is my greatest achievement in work? Being able to complete our first short film titled “Cell 10” under my company Butterscotch productions with its mandate of #advocacythroughfilm, this was also my directorial debut. The film is currently doing film festival runs, and we already have four official selections. Additionally another great achievement is being a co-founder of Bantu Film Festival an independent film festival in Botswana which is on its second year running.
Where would I most like to live? Well, I would love to live in a farm and produce my own food .
What is my most treasured possession? My mind, its ability to be creative, strategize and problem solve even under pressure
What is my most marked characteristic? My ability to adapt and make the most of what the world throws at me.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city? Well as a filmmaker I am mostly inspired by old buildings and the richness in their history, the tons of stories that could be told about that place. But also because I want you to visit Botswana we have amazing tourist attraction places such as the Okavango delta and Chobe National park just to mention a few.
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city? This is a hard one to answer given the many places available, however the most memorable ones will be Fego Caffe and Saffron Restaurant and Bar.
What books influenced my life and how? Books broadened my knowledge and sort of sharped my career path, but there is one particular book by Monique Rissen-Harrisberg –‘Make yourself Heard’ whenever I need a lift me up I read it to get my confidence back on track.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day? Gregorian –Masters of chants
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction? My childhood was filled with lots of Sylvester Stallone and Cynthia Rothrock movies then they where my hero and heroine, now because I’m in the film and television industry it’s difficult to say.
What is my most treasured possession? Family and friends who have believed in me and even went as far as investing in my craft. I will forever be grateful because if it wasn’t for them, I might have given up at some point. Filmmaking can be taxing emotionally and without proper support you are as good as doomed.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime? Sarah Polley’s Women talking- a great work of art but there are also great lessons to be learnt from the film
What role do stories play in my life and work? I often say sometimes you have to see yourself through a movie or book to be able to introspect in your live, and then from there you can make decision based on what you are dealing with then.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me? Taking control of your life and not being dependent on anyone. Living your truth
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, and partner in crime? My close family and friends they are with me through it all.
Which people or companies would I like to work with? Mmabatho Montsho-Director, Phathu Makwarela-Screenwriter, Vincent Moloi-Director, Seriti films-production company
What project am I looking forward to work on? I’m excited to say Bantu film festival is on its second year and we are currently looking for partners and or sponsors to make the festival a success. Additionally my team and I are on pre- production of a short film on the bullying culture that happens in boarding school in Botswana and this will be my second project working as a film director.
Where can you see me or my work?
These are links to my works where I worked as a Producer and Director;
CELL 10 Short film (2022)
https://youtu.be0lhyr8LaU0
BW Markets Tv Show (2020)
https://youtu.be/_Zbf-4XF9s
Hidden Scars Short film (2019)
https://youtu.be/kPagc7aH4G8
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me? To me its means that you can reach old age and still push your craft. Even if its not actively but you can find other ways to still continue with the craft.
Which creative professionals should Peter invite to tell their story?
Veronica Pilane
https://instagram.com/veronicapilane22?igshid=YmMyMTA2MY2=
Thebe Gee
https://instagram.com/thebe_gee?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2y=
How can you contact me?
ldmphothwe@gmail.com