What happens when South African game rangers create a wild hookup competition? That’s the outrageous premise behind the new Showmax original comedy Khaki Fever, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Brett Michael Innes.
The film follows a group of game rangers at Zalisa Lodge who secretly launch a raunchy challenge: hook up with the most tourists during the safari season — all while avoiding their stern lodge manager, who threatens to fire anyone caught fraternizing with guests. The top scorer wins the title “King of Khaki” and takes the losers’ tips.
“Khaki fever is what happens when lonely tourists see ripped game rangers get out of their 4×4 in the shortest of khaki shorts,” says Innes.
A Star-Studded South African Cast
The film stars Christopher Jaftha (Top Billing), alongside four 2025 Silwerskerm Festival nominees:
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Anja Taljaard and Trix Vivier (Juffrou X)
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Liam Bosman (Een Keer Om Die Son)
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Ilse Klink (Nêrens, Noord-Kaap)
Also joining are Abel Knobel, Francois Jacobs (Kaalgat Karel), Sean Brebnor (Getroud Met Rugby), Juanita de Villiers (Reënboogrant), and Izette Blignaut (Binnelanders).
Trailer Teases a Sexy Safari Ride
In the official trailer, the rangers are seen shamelessly flirting with guests, sneaking behind the bushes, and shouting “Bad boys for life – within 20 kilometers per hour” as they race around the bushveld.
Meanwhile, their uptight manager sternly warns them their behavior is “totally unacceptable” – setting the stage for comedic chaos.
Production and Premiere
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Director: Brett Michael Innes
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Writers: Innes and husband Nick Ahlers
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Producers: Nostalgia Productions, Paulo Areal
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Score and Theme Song: Loki Rothman, original track titled “Khaki Fever”
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Language: English and Afrikaans
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Filming Location: Cradle of Humankind, South Africa
World Premiere:
📍 Silwerskerm Festival, August 22, 2025 — The Bay Hotel, Camps Bay, Cape Town
🎥 Streaming on Showmax: September 5, 2025
Director’s Shift from Drama to Comedy
Brett Michael Innes, known for dramas like Sink and Fiela’s Child, shifts tone with Khaki Fever — his second comedy after Daryn’s Gym.
“I directed a short film last year about a mother ready to kill her colicky baby,” said Innes. “So I wanted this one to be the polar opposite. A funny and sexy Friday night film to escape with your friends.”
Innes is involved in three of the six Silwerskerm films in competition this year, including My F*k Marelize and The Heart is a Muscle (Berlin Festival winner).
Showmax & International Reach
This title is one of five Showmax Originals at this year’s Silwerskerm Festival, alongside:
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Finding Optel (Family)
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Vaal Riviera (Reality pilot)
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Unspoken War (Documentary)
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Ontwaak (Drama series)
📦 MultiChoice Studios holds international sales rights for Khaki Fever, as parent company MultiChoice Group navigates its acquisition by Canal+.
