Here's a curious movie and one I expected to find cringe worthy. Having heard nothing about it and knowing even less about the makers or performers, I watched out of curiosity. The first thing to stand out was the cinematography and editing of Dave Aenmey, who captures the striking South African locations with amazing visual style.
Then came the strong performance of the central character played with great power and commitment by South African Frank Rautenbach. His is a world-class tour de force with many difficult emotive scenes played with gusto. The Zulu Africans also came across with conviction (all bar a couple of the smaller roles) Director/screenplay writer Regardt van den Bergh acquits himself well in bringing this based on fact, faith-based story to surprisingly vivid life. While set around the tragic turmoil of the Apartheid years this is not the movies main focus. It features an above average soundtrack score, with a stand-out main song written and performed by South African artist Joe Niemand.
Taken from Angus Buchan's autobiographical book and photographed on his farm, it follows the life of an angry young small-time farmer and his young family, as they battle the land and assorted family emotional situations. The screenplay doesn't always convey some plot elements as clearly as it should, but the rather riveting story never the less holds interest throughout. Those not interested in faith based situations won't get the significance of some actions, while others will be suitably inspired by the changes in Buchan's personality, and the very real benefits he eventually brings to those around him. Well worth a look, and proves what can be done on a limited budget with full commitment from all involved.
Then came the strong performance of the central character played with great power and commitment by South African Frank Rautenbach. His is a world-class tour de force with many difficult emotive scenes played with gusto. The Zulu Africans also came across with conviction (all bar a couple of the smaller roles) Director/screenplay writer Regardt van den Bergh acquits himself well in bringing this based on fact, faith-based story to surprisingly vivid life. While set around the tragic turmoil of the Apartheid years this is not the movies main focus. It features an above average soundtrack score, with a stand-out main song written and performed by South African artist Joe Niemand.
Taken from Angus Buchan's autobiographical book and photographed on his farm, it follows the life of an angry young small-time farmer and his young family, as they battle the land and assorted family emotional situations. The screenplay doesn't always convey some plot elements as clearly as it should, but the rather riveting story never the less holds interest throughout. Those not interested in faith based situations won't get the significance of some actions, while others will be suitably inspired by the changes in Buchan's personality, and the very real benefits he eventually brings to those around him. Well worth a look, and proves what can be done on a limited budget with full commitment from all involved.