This endearing film was shown recently on a cable channel. We had no idea what to expect, but decided to give it a chance. In many ways, this South African film paid off big time. Despite its somber theme, the AIDS epidemic in Africa, this is without a doubt, one of the most positive films dealing with the problem, so endemic in that continent. Director David Hickson, gives an excellent account of a young orphan in the midst of turbulent times. Based on the screenplay of David McBryer, the film turned out to be a surprise.
Young Masa has seen tragedy in his young life. His family has been decimated by the AIDS epidemic. He decides to go to Johannesburg to try to make a living that will help him support his family back home. His encounter with Nobe, the truck driver, is not a happy one. In the big city, Masa has to face all kinds of dangers in order to survive. Meeting Letti, another street kid, is about the only good thing that occurs to the boy. Together they feel invincible.
When Letti disappears, Masa must form a new strategy in order to survive. He encounters Nobe again, but things change between them as the older man realizes the goodness in the young lad. Nobe also decides to awaken their township into doing something to combat the terrible disease by dealing with the ignorance that is the root of the problem.
The director gets good performances all around from his mostly unprofessional crew. Best of all is Owen Sejake, who plays Nobe. Junior Singo makes an effective Masa, and Nolatandu Maleke is also good as Letti.
A small film that will win the viewer's heart.
Young Masa has seen tragedy in his young life. His family has been decimated by the AIDS epidemic. He decides to go to Johannesburg to try to make a living that will help him support his family back home. His encounter with Nobe, the truck driver, is not a happy one. In the big city, Masa has to face all kinds of dangers in order to survive. Meeting Letti, another street kid, is about the only good thing that occurs to the boy. Together they feel invincible.
When Letti disappears, Masa must form a new strategy in order to survive. He encounters Nobe again, but things change between them as the older man realizes the goodness in the young lad. Nobe also decides to awaken their township into doing something to combat the terrible disease by dealing with the ignorance that is the root of the problem.
The director gets good performances all around from his mostly unprofessional crew. Best of all is Owen Sejake, who plays Nobe. Junior Singo makes an effective Masa, and Nolatandu Maleke is also good as Letti.
A small film that will win the viewer's heart.