Deniz Sertkol is a film programmer, curator and critic from Germany who now lives in Joburg and is making her impact felt on our cultural scene.
Her focus spans horror and genre cinema, experimental work and short-form film, and she’s bringing her thoughtful approach to moving pictures to how our city encounters them.
Before relocating to South Africa, she worked with the Goethe-Institut New York, programmed short films for the German Film Office and contributed to several festivals. To say she’s passionate about the art of film is an understatement.
At 44 Stanley’s The Bioscope, her recent programmes – including Oberhausen on Tour and Best of Final Girls Berlin – have introduced fresh perspectives to local screens. Next up is a monthly film club with House of Shem’s François Smit. We’re looking forward to having this space for shared viewing, discussion and discovery from next year.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year? And why?
I just started Scream With Me: Horror Films and the Rise of American Feminism (1968-1980) by Eleanor Johnson. It’s such a sharp look at how films like Rosemary’s Baby, The Shining and The Exorcist reflect women’s rights and anxieties, especially relevant in a post-Roe America. I’ve also loved Matrescence by Lucy Jones and All Fours by Miranda July – both offer really intimate, layered takes on womanhood and motherhood.
How do you keep fit?
I love barre at Alchemy Studio in Dunkeld West.
Week night, lowkey restaurant go-to?
Being a vegetarian in Joburg isn’t so easy, but for a weeknight dinner, I’d go to Glory in Parktown North and ask for the small menu. It’s my favourite spot.
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why? You needn’t own it!
That’s a tough one! I really love Isaac Julien’s video works – Western Union: Small Boats is a favourite. And Käthe Kollwitz’s drawings are very moving. Seeing her retrospective at the MoMA recently felt surprisingly urgent, given everything happening in the world right now.
Do you have a hobby?
Tennis and ceramics.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
Earplugs and sunscreen.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Leonardo DiCaprio – my walls were plastered with his face.
Three songs that you’d take to a desert island?
(Nothing But) Flowers by the Talking Heads; 1995 by Molly Nilsson; and Ain’t Got No, I Got Life by Nina Simone.
Top image: supplied.
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