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Umalusi

  • Umalusi
Genre : Drama
Type : Fiction
Original title :
Principal country concerned : Column : Cinema/tv
Year of production : 2008
Format : Feature
Running time : 76 (in minutes)

You can never run from yourself.
A gripping drama about Malusi, a spoilt, urbane young man. Having lived a life of privilege, Malusi spends his days partying, drugging, driving his expensive car, and bedding as many women as he can. After a night of cokefuelled revelry, he sleeps with his best friend's young sister. The night of fun ends badly when the girl dies of an overdose. Terrified, Malusi escapes the suburbs and takes refuge in a nearby township.

It is here that he will learn some severe lessons. Refreshingly candid and unconventional, UMalusi is a great example of film makers going out and getting their films made, without waiting endlessly for funding. With this striking debut Sikwebu and Qubeka establish as two young directors to watch.

South Africa 2008 76 min
English & Xhosa; English subtitles

Cast: Sivu Nobongoza, Lucas Sithole, Dadawele Nzo, Ngabonzi Matyeshana

Directors: Mlandu Sikwebu and Jahmil X.T. Qubeka
Screenplay: Mlandu Sikwebu, Jahmil X.T. Qubeka
Music: Lungelo, Wandi
Cinematography: Jahmil X.T. Qubeka

Produced by ZA Kingmakers
SA Distributor: Ster-Kinekor
This South African movie is set in a township in East London. A priviledged young black man thinks he is responsible for the death of a female friend, and so flees from his comfortable life into the harsh reality of township life. The experience is eye-opening and harrowing.
www.moviesite.co.za/2009/0710/umalusi.html

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