HE may not quite have the allure of Charlize Theron, but Nelson Mandela Bay funnyman Barry “The Cuz” Hilton is now also a sought-after talent in Hollywood after his movie debut proved a smash success in Tinseltown.
During an awards ceremony at the international Feel Good Film Festival at the Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles last week, South African produced Finding Lenny was placed second while Hilton – who plays the leading character – also came second in the actors category.
Hundreds of “feel good” movies were considered, but only six were short-listed.
The winning movie was a US film called Rockslide.
Hilton felt proud of his achievement and being South African. “Everywhere I went I was given work offers. It is nice to know that you can go and work overseas but I live in South Africa and I love my country. This is where I’ll continue my work,” Hilton said after arriving back in Port Elizabeth from Hollywood earlier this week.
During a question and answer session after the awards ceremony, Hilton did what he does best: comedy.
“I did a bit of stand-up right there in front of about 150 people. It was absolutely great.”
He added that he and his team were very well received.
“While the movie was showing the people were cheering and whooping in the cinema. I really believe the Americans enjoy South African humour.”
Hilton added he was very happy to know that South Africa was “right up there with the best in the world” when it came to entertainment.
He gave the reassurance he had no plans to leave South Africa and said there were still a few local movies in the pipeline in the near future.
Finding Lenny, which was released in April this year, was produced by Neal Sundstrom.
To be able to attend the festival, Hilton had to cancel a few gigs.
“I just want to thank everyone that understood and helped make this possible.”
By: Yolandé Stander WEEKEND POST REPORTER
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