10 South African Movies That Will Take Your Breath Away
Posted by South Africa’s extraordinary cultural and linguistic heritage serves as a treasure trove for filmmakers, offering a myriad of captivating stories to be told on the big screen. Through the lens of great filmmakers, South African movies allow us to gain insights into the country’s history, struggles, triumphs, and diverse perspectives.
Today, we’re taking a look at 10 amazing movies about South Africa. These 10 titles beautifully capture the essence of this dynamic nation, each offering a unique glimpse into its rich tapestry. From South African movies about the apartheid era to Academy Award-winning thrillers, here’s a list of films you’re sure to enjoy:
Table of Contents
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1. Tsotsi (2005)
Synopsis
Directed by Gavin Hood, “Tsotsi” follows the gripping tale of a young Johannesburg gang leader who steals a car, only to discover an unexpected baby in the backseat. As he grapples with his newfound responsibility, he begins confronting his violent past and strives to find redemption.
Talent Involved
Gavin Hood’s stellar direction earned the film the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006. Additionally, its young star, Presley Chweneyagae, became the youngest South African actor to gain international popularity thanks to his breathtaking performance.
South African Insight
“Tsotsi” provides an unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by impoverished communities in urban South Africa. The film delves into the harsh realities of poverty, violence, and the transformative power of empathy.
Languages
The film is predominantly spoken in Tsotsitaal, a unique township slang, with elements of Zulu, Sotho, and South African English.
2. Skin (2008)
Synopsis
“Skin” is a poignant biographical drama based on the life of Sandra Laing, a woman born to white parents during apartheid, but whose appearance led to her classification as “coloured.” The film follows Sandra’s struggle against a system that denied her basic rights based on the colour of her skin.
Talent Involved
The film stars Sophie Okonedo, who received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Sandra Laing.
South African Insight
One of the best South African movies about apartheid, “Skin” delves into the complexities of race, identity, and the profound impact of racist policies on individuals and families.
Languages
South African English, with occasional Zulu dialogue.
3. Escape from Pretoria (2020)
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Synopsis
In 1978, Tim Jenkin and Stephen Lee were arrested for distributing anti-apartheid propaganda and showing support for the African National Congress (ANC) party, which had been banned since 1960. This thrilling true story follows these two characters as they attempt a daring escape from Pretoria Central Prison during the height of apartheid.
Their struggle for freedom against all odds makes for an edge-of-your-seat cinematic experience that critics called “one of the most gripping South African movies ever made”.
Talent Involved
The film stars Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) as Tim Jenkin, adding international star power to the production.
South African Insight
“Escape from Pretoria” sheds light on the resilience and courage of those who fought against the oppressive regime, emphasizing the importance of justice and equality.
Languages
South African English, with occasional French.
4. Cry, the Beloved Country (1995)
Synopsis
Based on Alan Paton’s classic novel, “Cry, the Beloved Country” tells the story of a Zulu pastor, Stephen Kumalo, who travels to Johannesburg to find his estranged son. Kumalo’s journey leads him to the squalid, impoverished slums of the city, where he discovers his son has turned into a criminal.
Talent Involved
The film boasts an impressive cast, including James Earl Jones and Richard Harris.
South African Insight
One of the most emotional South African movies about apartheid, this epic drama offers a searing depiction of the consequences of segregation, poverty, and racial hatred.
Languages
South African English and French.
5. District 9 (2009)
Synopsis
Blending sci-fi with social commentary, “District 9” is set in an alternate South Africa where extraterrestrial refugees are confined to slums. When a government agent becomes exposed to an alien substance, he develops supernatural powers and joins forces with the aliens to fight their oppressors.
Talent Involved
Presented by Peter Jackson (director of The Lord of the Rings), “District 9” was a worldwide hit. The impressive South African cast includes Sharlto Copley, Jason Cope, and David James.
South African Insight
“District 9” uses sci-fi elements to offer an allegory for apartheid and xenophobia. It urges viewers to reflect on the mistreatment of marginalised communities. With this film, the writers showed the world that movies about South Africa can be both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Languages
English Afrikaans, Chichewa, Chewa, Nyanja, Southern Sotho, Xhosa, and Zulu.
6. Forever Young, Forever Free (1975)
Synopsis
This is the remarkable tale of a close bond between Tsepo and his friend Jannie, who has lost his parents. Jannie is relocated to a missionary station in Tsepo’s village, where they form an unbreakable friendship, and Jannie finds solace in his new surroundings. Their lives are filled with joy and mischief typical of childhood until a tragic event occurs: 10-year-old Jannie sustains a severe injury. In the face of numerous hardships, Tsepo and the community rally together to arrange specialised medical treatment for Jannie.
However, an immense challenge lies ahead – what sacrifices will be required for Jannie’s survival?
Talent Involved
While the film doesn’t feature internationally renowned actors, it was a significant milestone in South African cinema, particularly for its director, Ashley Lazarus.
South African Insight
One of the best coming-of-age South African movies, Tsepo and Jannie’s story unfolds against the breathtaking backdrops of a dramatic African landscape and New York City in the mid-1970s.
Languages
South African English, American English, and a few phrases in Afrikaans.
7. Moffie (2019)
Synopsis
Based on the novel by André Carl van der Merwe, “Moffie” is apoignant drama set during South Africa’s border war in the 1980s. The film follows a young conscript’s journey as he grapples with his sexuality amid the harsh realities of war and societal expectations.
Talent Involved
The film showcases a cast of talented South African actors. The talented ensemble includes newcomer Kai Luke Brummer, who gives a touching performance in the titular role.
South African Insight
“Moffie” unveils the toxic masculinity prevalent in the military during apartheid, shedding light on the struggles faced by gay soldiers.
Languages
Afrikaans and English, with accents reflecting different regions of South Africa.
8. Fiela’s Child (2019)
Synopsis
In the dry and desolate Karoo region, Fiela Komoetie, a woman of mixed race, discovers an abandoned white child at her doorstep. Without hesitation, she decides to raise him as her own. Over the next nine years, she affectionately cares for him as Benjamin Komoetie.
However, their peaceful life is soon shattered. One day, Benjamin is forcibly taken away and placed in the Knysna Forest under the custody of Elias and Barta Van Rooyen, a family of woodcutters who insist that he belongs to them.
Talent Involved
The film boasts an exceptionally gifted South African cast comprising non-actors, which adds a remarkable level of authenticity to the production.
South African Insight
“Fiela’s Child” raises thought-provoking questions. From the complexities of race and the bonds of family, you’ll find yourself pondering about the film’s main themse for a long time.
Languages
Afrikaans
9. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013)
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Synopsis
One of the most popular South African movies about apartheid, this biographical film chronicles the life of Nelson Mandela. From his early activism and imprisonment to his eventual release and the fight against apartheid, the film is a thorough biopic of one of Africa’s most important men.
Talent Involved
The beloved British actor Idris Elba delivers a remarkable performance as Nelson Mandela.
South African Insight
“Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” offers an intimate portrayal of one of the most influential figures in South African history. More importantly, it showcases Mandela’s unwavering dedication to justice and equality.
Languages
English, with occasional Xhosa and Afrikaans.
10. Blood Diamond (2006)
Synopsis
“Blood Diamond” is a compelling drama about two unlikely allies who join forces to recover a rare diamond. While primarily set in Sierra Leone in the 1990s, “Blood Diamond” delves into fueling civil wars, including the Angolan Civil War, which deeply affected South Africa.
Talent Involved
Directed by Edward Zwick (of “Glory” fame), this box-office success stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, and Jennifer Connelly.
South African Insight
“Blood Diamond” sheds light on the devastating consequences of the diamond trade and how it intertwines with South Africa’s history and involvement in regional conflicts.
Languages
English and Afrikaans.
South African cinema has delivered a treasure trove of gripping, thought-provoking movies that offer deep insights into the country’s history, struggles, and triumphs. From Oscar-winning dramas to thought-provoking sci-fi flicks, each title in our South African movie guide provides a window into South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and diverse society.
Whether exploring the effects of apartheid, highlighting individual acts of courage, or shedding light on social issues, these movies about South Africa are essential for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this captivating nation.
Do you want to perfect your South African English accent before travelling to South Africa? Or perhaps, you’d like to learn some of the African languages mentioned in this article. At Language Trainers, we offer Zulu lessons with native teachers and personalised Afrikaans courses, just to name a few.
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