Six sensational South African movies that are a must-watch

South African cinema offers an incredible blend of storytelling, often shining a light on the country’s unique culture, historical complexity, and societal challenges. From powerful dramas to groundbreaking thrillers, here are six must-watch South African movies that capture the heart of the nation and reflect its diverse experiences…

1. Tsotsi (2005)

• Genre: Crime Drama
• Director: Gavin Hood

Tsotsi follows the life of a young gang leader, Tsotsi, who navigates the brutal streets of Johannesburg with a hardened heart. However, after stealing a car, he discovers an infant in the back seat. The responsibility of caring for the child slowly softens him, setting him on an unexpected journey of self-reflection and redemption.

Why watch it? Tsotsi won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, propelling South Africa cinema into the global spotlight. Its raw and honest portrayal of life in Johannesburg’s townships and its themes of forgiveness and redemption make it both powerful and universally relatable. Through Tsotsi’s emotional transformation, viewers are invited to witness the potential for change even in the direst of circumstances.

2. District 9 (2009)

• Genre: Science Fiction/Thriller
• Director: Neill Blomkamp

In an alternate world, an alien spaceship becomes stranded over Johannesburg, leaving its extraterrestrial passengers isolated in a sprawling, segregated area called District 9. As government official Wikus van de Merwe leads efforts to relocate the aliens, he becomes infected with a mysterious alien substance that fundamentally changes his life, forcing him to confront his biases and the systemic injustices around him.

Why watch it? With four Academy Award nominations, District 9 became a phenomenon for its blend of sci-fi action and intense social commentary. The film, directed by South African-born Neill Blomkamp, offers a striking metaphor for apartheid and xenophobia. It uses the science fiction genre to creatively address South Africa’s historical and contemporary struggles with segregation, making it an impactful and thought-provoking watch.

3. Yesterday (2004)

• Genre: Drama
• Director: Darrell Roodt

Yesterday tells the story of a rural Zulu woman, also named Yesterday, who learns she is HIV-positive. Isolated and stigmatized by her community, she is determined to survive long enough to see her young daughter start school. Through her strength and resilience, Yesterday confronts her illness and the societal discrimination that comes with it.

Why watch it? This groundbreaking film was one of the first to explore the realities of HIV/AIDS in rural South Africa. Nominated for an Academy Award, Yesterday is both tender and heartbreaking, shedding light on the impact of HIV/AIDS on communities often overlooked. The protagonist’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the strength of a mother’s love, making this an inspiring yet eye-opening film.

4. Life, Above All (2010)

• Genre: Drama
• Director: Oliver Schmitz

Based on the novel Chanda’s Secrets, Life, Above All follows 12-year-old Chanda, whose family is ostracized after her mother becomes gravely ill. Despite the secrecy and shame surrounding HIV/AIDS in her rural village, Chanda bravely confronts her community’s prejudices to seek help and understanding.

Why watch it? Life, Above All received global recognition for its sensitive portrayal of difficult subjects and was shortlisted for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars. It’s a touching story of courage and perseverance that highlights the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS in South African society. This beautifully told film addresses the strength of family and community bonds and the courage required to overcome societal taboos.

5. Five Fingers for Marseilles (2017)

• Genre: Western/Thriller
• Director: Michael Matthews

This unique South African twist on the Western genre takes place in the rural town of Marseilles, where Tau, a former rebel, returns after years away to find his hometown controlled by corrupt forces. Determined to protect his people and reconcile with his past, he must face the dark forces threatening his community.

Why watch it? Five Fingers for Marseilles reimagines the classic Western with a South African backdrop, capturing breathtaking landscapes and exploring themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption. It’s a fresh and powerful addition to the Western genre that offers a distinctly South African perspective on the fight for justice and freedom.

6. Inxeba (The Wound) (2017)

• Genre: Drama
• Director: John Trengove

Inxeba centers on Xolani, a closeted gay man who works as a mentor during a traditional Xhosa initiation ceremony for young boys transitioning into manhood. As he grapples with his own hidden life and his growing connection to a rebellious initiate, the film delves into the conflicts between tradition, masculinity, and identity.

Why watch it? Inxeba gained international acclaim for its bold exploration of LGBTQ+ themes within the context of cultural traditions. Shortlisted for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars, it’s a groundbreaking work that pushes the boundaries of South African cinema. Inxeba is an evocative story of identity, secrecy, and self-acceptance, as well as a profound look at the pressures of cultural expectations.