M-Net is turning Thursdays in September and October into ‘Documentary Days’. They will showcase two powerful local documentaries: Dark Side of Glory and Steinheist.
Beginning on 4 September, these gripping series will air on Channel 101 at 10 pm.
A TRUE-CRIME DOCUMENTARY SERIES
Dark Side of Glory documentary series premiered on 4 September, and dives into harrowing true crime stories from the world of sport.
The first episode focuses on Joseph Ntshongwana, a former Blue Bulls rugby player.
Between 1998 and 2001, Ntshongwana impressed on the field. However, a decade later, he shocked the country when he was arrested for murdering four men with an axe and injuring two others.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN ‘THE DARK SIDE OF GLORY‘
The documentary series also explores the 2021 deaths of three female athletes in Kenya, including Agnes Tirop, who was stabbed shortly after breaking a world record.
Director Arianna Perretta emphasises the importance of telling these stories. “These stories are raw and shocking stories.
It is important that these cases are brought into the light and that we see positive outcomes and a real push for change.”
THE ‘STEINHEIST’ DOCUMENTARY
From 18 September, Steinheist will unravel South Africa’s biggest corporate scandal. Based on Rob Rose’s 2018 book, the documentary traces the downfall of Steinhoff and its former CEO, Markus Jooste.
The first three episodes broke Showmax records for views. They detail how Jooste’s resignation triggered a crash that wiped out over R200 billion from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
Now, two new episodes catch up with the saga, showing how authorities seized Jooste’s assets worth R1.4 billion and how his legal troubles intensified before his tragic suicide in March 2024.
IMPORTANCE OF DOCUMENTARIES
Documentaries play a vital role in society by shedding light on important issues often overlooked or hidden from public view.
They educate, inform, and provoke critical thinking by presenting real-life stories with depth and authenticity.
In South Africa, where challenges such as corruption, crime, and social inequality persist, documentaries serve as powerful tools for transparency and accountability.
They spark conversations, inspire change, and help communities understand the realities they face, making them an essential part of a healthy, informed democracy.
SOUTH AFRICAN STORIES IN DOCUMENTARY STYLE
Director Richard Gregory delivers a fantastic, enthralling and frustrating watch, highlighting how money and power shape justice in South Africa.
Catch Dark Side of Glory on 4 and 11 September, and Steinheist from 18 September. Both will air Thursdays at 10 pm on M-Net. Both docs are available on DStv Stream, DStv Catch Up, and Showmax.
HAVE YOU FOLLOWED THE STEINHEIST STORY BEFORE? WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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