Two days into Telkom’s attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest film marathon, and four contestants have already dropped out.

The four dozed off while they were meant to have their eyes fixed on the screen.

Ten South Africans and serial Guinness World Record breaker and Canadian actor, Suresh Joachim, were chosen to participate in the marathon and announced.

Thulisile Madyo voluntarily dropped before the attempt had begun, forfeiting her spot to Louis Marx. Ill health forced Aqeel Dockrat to follow suit after taking part for 13 hours 38 minutes.

Tibor Donatus Kurucz, Tiberius Tjo and Marx all dozed off for between seven and 20 minutes each, after 12 hours 42 minutes, 14 hours 22 minutes, and 14 hours 5 minutes respectively.

Buhlebethu Hlatswayo is the latest contestant to drop out after falling asleep for only 24 seconds after participating for 34 hours 51 minutes.

The rules of the Telkom marathon are pretty tight; contestants only get a 10 minute break – between 90 minute movies – in which to rest, sleep or visit the bathroom and they’re not allowed to look away from the movie for more than a few seconds at a time.

“We’re impressed by the grit and stamina our contestants have displayed thus far. Most of us love watching movies, but this record attempt requires tremendous physical perseverance from anyone attempting it,” Jacqui O’Sullivan, managing executive for group communication and public relations at Telkom, said in a statement.

The public are welcome to come and see the contestants taking part in the marathon at The Sheds in downtown Joburg. Tickets cost R30 and all proceeds will go to LifeLine, which provides free counselling services across South Africa.

[Image – supplied]