Modern Times
Modern Times
tv digital media
Tel: +27 71 008 9851
Johannesburg, South Africa
Modern Times has been in existence since 1989.
We are a multi-faceted full digital service and production house, with a reputation for producing high quality products.
Contact: philip@modern.co.za
Showreels
Activations
Activations
Feature Films
In 2005 we produced the trailer and a companion film The Making of Tsotsi, for the Oscar-winning movie Tsotsi.
Modern Times produces features in its own right.
2025 – Modern Times is currently in post production on two documentary series. We have scripts in development and continue to carry out work supporting film makers.
If you are interested in pursuing a script idea with us, please contact us to submit your proposal.
Who’s Who
Who’s Who
Philip Shields
MSc Software Engineering
Philip Shields is involved in all stages of our productions and runs Modern Times Interactive Platforms.
Sophia Phirippides
Sophia Phirippides worked for 10 years in the feature film industry, transitioning to TV in 1996.
Alexia Phirippides
Alexia has edited music videos, Carte Blanche inserts and corporate promos. She is also a brand management and creative concepts expert.
Sophia Phirippides
Producer / Director
Sophia Phirippides worked for 10 years in the feature film industry, transitioning to TV in 1996.
Philip Shields
Director Interactive Platforms
MSc Software Engineering
Philip Shields is involved in all stages of our productions and runs Modern Times Interactive Platforms.
Alexia Phirippides
Alexia has edited music videos, Carte Blanche inserts and corporate promos. She is also a brand management and creative concepts expert.
Sophia Phirippides
Sophia Phirippides
Sophia Phirippides
Producer / Director
Most recently Sophia directed and produced Mark Shuttleworth – Lessons From Space, Finding Leigh, a Fox Crime documentary and two other full length documentaries Burden of Truth and All About Reeva.
Other work includes Carte Blanche stories (regular producer since 1996), eTV stories, SABC shorts, directing and executive producing series.
Vodacom Awards 2018 commended “Sophia Phirippides for her entry on the very topical issue of land invasions” and in 2023 the short documentary Medical Xenophobia was nominated in the SAFTAs.
Sophia Phirippides past awards include: 2 CNN African Journalist of the Year category awards, a silver Avanti, Vodacom Journalist of the Year category award, Telkom ICT Journalist of the Year television award and 2 Citadel Words on Money Awards.
In Remembrance of Derek Watts [1948-2023]
“Derek will forever be etched in my heart and journey through life. I started as a newbie at Carte Blanche 23 years ago,” said Carte Blanche veteran producer Sophia Phirippides.
“I went on my first overseas trip with him to cover the Mark Shuttleworth’s First African in Space story. He cured my fear of flying and the adventures never ceased.
“I have learned so much from him through the years, he was a very tall pillar of strength and inspiration and a friend to whomever he met. A giant in television, a colleague and friend I will miss deeply.”
Modern Times 1989 – 2025