Hansie: A True Story (2008) User Reviews

The fall from grace and redemption of a South African sporting hero.

[Paddy-49 · 5/10 · 19 January 2011]

"Hansie" is a curious film. It was produced and inspired by a team, including the subject's brother Frans, who seemed to have two motives. First posthumously to rehabilitate Hansie Cronje the fallen idol of South African cricket. Second to suggest that through Christian belief in action, "choosing life", it is possible for even the most fallen of sinners to get absolution. This makes it sound extremely slanted and precious and likely only to be of interest to those who, like Cronje, have been "born again". In fact it is a much better film that this outline indicates and I would argue that it is worth viewing by anyone who has an interest in Cronje and cricket but also in the complexities of South Africa society and human character.

The subtitle of the film is "A True Story" and it certainly takes and explains Hansie Cronje's side of the story - the personal explanation for his actions that he gave to the King Commission which investigated the match fixing allegations on behalf of the South Africa government. So the film is not investigative journalism and no new material facts about the scandal emerge. What the film does is paint in the personal issues surrounding the story – in particular Cronje's relationship with his teammates, his family and his friends. And there is a very strong message that the child is father of the man – we visit Cronje's school, Grey College, Bloemfontein, quite a lot both in flashback and in the aftermath of Cronje's death. The strict Afrikaner moral code taught by this school is contrasted with Cronje, the sinner, who falls from grace. For those at Grey, Cronje is the "Prodigal Son" and this bible story is a leitmotif of the film.

"Hansie" is clearly a sincere act of attempted redemption of Cronje's reputation by Hansie Cronje's widow, brother and others close to him. This is not to say that it ducks the tough issues – how could it as they are very much in the public domain following Cronje's confession and evidence to the investigators? It does not try to exculpate Cronje's behaviour – his greed, hubris and arrogance come across albeit tempered by strong suggestions that he was a troubled soul. The truth, of course, is that Cronje had absolutely no reason to take money from the shady world of the illegal bookmaker and to then inevitably get sucked into that world. By South African standards he was extremely well off with a lovely home, substantial income and hero status. Even after his fall from grace and death he was chosen at number 11 in the list of 100 Greatest South Africans! Is "Hansie" an inspiring story? Not to me it isn't. That some religions allow and even encourage those who have fallen to be redeemed is fine I suppose. But the barely disguised contention of the film that this rebirth (including a baptism scene) somehow eradicates the original crime is surely wrong. The choice of "Life", which must be linked to an affirmation of faith, seems a bit of a cop out. It is almost as if a "sinner who repenteth" is in some way morally superior to someone who hasn't sinned at all – or hasn't been found out!

The production values of this fairly low budget film are good – even the cricket scenes, whilst far from authentic, are to an acceptable standard – as is the location shooting in India and South Africa. The performances are good as well – Frank Rautenbach makes a convincing Cronje, the American Sarah Thompson is believable as Cronje's wife Bertha and Nick Lorentz is excellent as South Africa's coach Bob Woolmer. So "Hansie – A True Story" is a pretty good film – so far as it goes! But was I convinced that this was the whole truth about illegal betting, match fixing and the involvement of Hansie Cronje and other South Africans in this sordid business? I'm afraid not!

A factual, but boring look at the life of one of the most controversial men in South African History

[snippie · 5/10 · 26 September 2008]

I went into this movie expecting the worst, but hoping for the best. Which is probably the best way to approach it.

I'm not going to repeat the plot, as I'm pretty sure anybody reading this will know the basic outline of the movie. (Well at least anybody that comes from South Africa, or other cricket loving nations).

What I do want to mention in this review is the actual quality of the film, in regards to things such as cinematography, script, acting etc.

This film seemed to have a higher production budget than many other South African films. The film itself looked clearer and less grainy than many other films produced here. There were some absolutely gorgeous shots of the Cape area, especially of Blouberg Strand and in and around Fancourt (George).

The shots of India also seemed authentic, although, since I've never been there I can't be absolutely certain, but they were gorgeous!

Now for the negative aspects.

I thought, in general, that the script sucked. It was extremely on the nose, as though it was written for those who do not want to think and figure things out for themselves.

I also thought they could have spent more time on Hansie's dealings with the Indian bookies, and his reasons for dealing with them, as in the end the only real reason we received was that he loved money... And that was only mentioned towards the end of the movie. We didn't get a glimpse into his thought processes whilst he did all these things. The only time I thought I actually knew why he did it was the very first time, when Donald told him to try to up the amount just for fun - After that I had no idea of Hansie's reasonings for doing the things he did.

Another aspect of the film that really grated, was that, for the most part, the acting was sub-par to dismal. Francois Rautenbach did okay as Hansie, nothing Oscar worthy, but he was amongst the best the film had to offer. Unfortunately the same can't be said for Sarah Thompson - A big part of that had to do with her accent, as at times it seemed like she didn't even try to conceal her American accent.

So in summary, this was a pretty average movie, with some positive aspects, but could have been so much better had they spent a bit more time on the script and with a couple of cast changes.

Great story. Terrible accent

[conradiepj-1 · 4/10 · 16 February 2023]

Having grown up in SA during the Hansie golden years, it was bitter sweet to watch and brought back wonderful memories BUT, for the life of me, the accent from Hansie's wife, as played by Sarah Thompson, an American, was cringe worthy to be polite. Swapping between Eastern European, British and other butchery, it was distracting and off-putting. Sorry, should have gone with an Afrikaans actors of you wanted accuracy.

The school and township inclusions in the film were a nice touch. Perhaps more original footage could have been used rather than ultra modern sky cam footage which isn't accurate of cricket in the late 90s to early 2000s.

Go in with low expectations at the best. An average 4/10 IMO.

Despite low expectations, I enjoyed this movie.

[nathanael-634-170013 · 7/10 · 14 January 2010]

Normally I'm quite critical of movies. I knew "Hansie" wouldn't be amazing and expected it to be low-budget as I knew it was a Christian movie. I was drawn to watch it because as an Australian I love cricket and admired Cronje, and (like one of the other reviewers on this board) I was interested in the South African psyche at the time.

Firstly I was quite surprised to find that the cinematography was really good. I was impressed with the production and could see that a fair bit of money had been invested into the movie. The acting wasn't standout but I expected worse - and it was good enough not for me to notice it during the film.

I have to admit I couldn't figure out some of the accents - especially Bertha (I thought she must have been English, not Safi) and some of the older men portrayed seemed to have English accents as well (the pastor, Justice King, etc).

While I know there are heaps in India, there aren't that many English-language movies about cricket - so I enjoyed watching the portrayal of famous cricket stars and I especially enjoyed the re-enactment of the last over of the 1999 World Cup Semi-final in which Alan Donald was run out. I remember watching that on live TV with mates and expecting Australia to lose the match and then the unthinkable happened. Australia went on to win the World Cup and have also won the last two (2003 and 2007). It was a pivotal point for our team and it was refreshing to see the same event from a South African point of view.

I'm giving the movie 7 out of 10 because I actually enjoyed it - and when that happens I have to rate a movie. It was actually quite sad. Not being from South Africa myself, it was interesting to see aspects of South African life that's similar to things here in Oz (e.g. backyard cricket and BBQs, sport and outdoor lifestyle).

Disappointing

[koos_uys · 3/10 · 25 October 2009]

I was never a great Hansie fan, mainly because I am not that interested in sports. However, it is a intriguing story and I decided to watch the DVD to hopefully learn more of the story than what was generally published in the main stream media.

In short, except for some nice camera work, the movie was a serious disappointment in just about every other aspect.

Although Frank Rautenbach probably delivered the best performance so far of his career, I am not hopeful that he will ever be in the league of Marius Wyers or Gys de Villiers for example. I would say this is the very minimum that one can expect from a professional actor.

Why they decided to use the American actress, Sarah Thompson to play the role of Bertha, is not clear. We have more than enough pretty blond local actresses that could fill this position perfectly. She was insipid to say at the least and her accent was a major disturbance. I could not else but to wonder what the real Bertha is like.

The movie totally fails to keep one's attention and I spend a lot of time forwarding scenes. It would be torture to watch it in a cinema.

Probably the biggest disappointment, is the fact the movie did not add a single piece of information that was not available in main stream media. I would say one of the logical main objectives would be to try and answer at least some of the many questions people had about it all.

For a high budget film in any local terms, they should have done much better.

Not too bad....

[andre-kruger · 7/10 · 8 October 2008]

This movie really refreshed my memory about what Hansie Cronje exactly went through. Frans Cronje, Hansie's brother was the director for this film and that attracted me with the story coming from someone who could tell it more accurately and correctly than most.

The acting and production is South African quality, so don't expect miracles in that department. I found the movie to tell a accurate story of Hansie's life, and found it to be incredibly sad at the end.

This movie is not for everyone , but if you are a passionate South African cricket supporter such as myself , well then I recommend this movie. 7/10

Too long, superficial and trying too hard for "redemption"

[Dodger67 · 3/10 · 18 January 2009]

A movie about a subject very familiar to South Africans and cricket lovers. It is an attempt by the producer (Hansie's brother) to redeem the family honour but it falls short.

The story doesn't really get under the skin of Hansie Cronje and fails to really, honestly, examine his motives for taking the bribes and ultimately betraying his team, fans and country.

While one can accept that it is difficult for actors to portray very well known living people, most of them didn't really try very hard at all.

The religious theme is way too preachy, but about what one could expect from the team (producer, director, lead actor) that also made the bible-thumping "Faith like Potatoes". Hansie's "redemption" is unconvincing. It comes across as superficial and fails to convey any sense of sincerity.

Cricket fans will also be disappointed at the quality of cricket played by actors and extras supposedly portraying one of the best teams in the world, mercifully these scenes are few and far between.

The camera work is fairly good, locations are excellent but the acting and directing is well below par.

I was left with the impression that this film, just like Faith like Potatoes, was made for the "church hall" circuit rather than general audiences. It intentionally preaches to the choir.

You've missed the point

[Peter_C_Hall · 8/10 · 11 August 2009]

It seems many reviewers have missed the point of the Hansie movie.

This movie is not just about cricket and a sullied era of match fixing.

As an Australian, this movie gives us insight into the South African psyche at the time. It shows us how South Africa needed "a Hansie" to rise up into a new post-apartheid era. If Hansie was not born, they would have invented "another Hansie"; just like Australia needed "a Bradman" during the depression era to help define itself & lift its spirits.

This movie is also about how a man can be tempted despite good intentions and character. A "little leaven, leavens the whole lump".

It shows that all our heroes are flawed in some way, and that we should take them off their pedestal.

Its also about how Christians struggle with life like anyone else.

Reviews of "pious" and 'dribble" have missed the point.

As an Aussie, one thing I like about this movie is that it is not from Hollywood. Its good to get another perspective on the human condition.

A well done movie which shows us many things if we take off our blinkers and see.

A must watch for all cricket lovers....

[musicmansurana · 7/10 · 18 November 2010]

I seriously don't understand why this movie has been so low rated. The intention of this movie is not to entertain the people, but, to bring out the happenings of the "Hansie Cronje" on the big screen. All the situations in the movie have been very well described though I do feel that the movie could have gone into more depth by elaborating Hansie's interactions with this team mates and their opinion on him. All in all, the movie does give a broad idea of the happenings in his life but in a very precise, yet, beautiful manner. What disappoints me is that the two references to the India Vs South Africa match in '99 where South Africa lost to Sachin Tendulkar's century (& the match being held as fixed) & the famous South Africa Vs. Australia World cup Semi-final which ended as a tie were not included in a movie. But nevertheless, a good documentary & a must watch for all cricket lovers.

Mike Atherton won't be impressed with this awful, pious nonsense

[JeffersonCody · 3/10 · 18 December 2008]

HANSIE with Frans Rautenbach, Sarah Thompson, Brandon Auret, David Sherwood, Eric Nobbs and Sybel Coetzee, directed by Regardt van den Bergh . Rating: 3/10.

BORN into a priviliged white world and graced with a mercurial talent for cricket, the late Hansie Cronje rose to great heights, but a combination of greed, boredom and arrogance led to him accepting bribes from bookmakers while serving as South Africa's test cricket captain. When he was caught out, Cronje denied his crimes for a while - and received the full support of Dr Ali Bacher and the Minister of Sport. But it was obvious the millionaire cricketer was lying, and he quickly changed his story. Soon he was weeping before the King Commission and telling how "a love of money" had led him into temptation. From here we see Cronje struggling with guilt and angst, while his faithful wife Bertha (played by America actress Sarah Thompson, who's beautiful but battles to do a South African accent) offers him unconditional love and support. Soon it becomes clear that while the Devil made him do it, the Lord (with a little help from Peter Pollock) will save the day. "Hansie", scripted by Frans Conje (Hansie's brother), is no doubt well-intentioned, but not only is it sentimental, overlong and cliché-strewn, it teaches us nothing we don't already know, and offers absolutely no piercing insights into the title character. A fascinating film could have been made about Hansie Cronje, but this isn't it. Perhaps someone impartial should try making an in-depth television documentary about the man. However, fans of director Regard van den Bergh's previous Christian film, "Faith Like Potatoes" (which also starred Rautenbach) and Hansie loyalists might like this expensive local movie (it cost about R42 million), which hammers away with its message about the prodigal son and forgiveness. And Rautenbach's performance isn't bad. As a fanatical cricket lover, Hansie Cronje broke my heart, and I forgave him(even though he didn't have to got jail or return the money and gifts he received). Yet I find it harder to forgive this film, which steals shots shamelessly from "Chariots of Fire", "Rocky" and "Dead Poets Society", and even pinches a line of dialogue from "Trainspotting". "Hansie" isn't recommended to genuine cricket lovers and doesn't have the depth to intruige sophisticated cinema-goers, but it will do reasonably well in South Africa. Overseas prospects appear decidedly limited, and I can tell you now that former England-captain-turned-ace journalist Mike Atherton certainly won't be impressed.

It's a film for those who celebrate sports, faith, love, friendships and life.

[sulemanashiq2 · 8/10 · 13 September 2023]

I am kind of tired of watching films, because the quality is graded down with overly hyped storylines and cringe CGI, Platforms like Netflix, and Amazon enhance the quantity of the films but quality zeroed down.

I was perplexed and browsing the movies on Netflix until I came to the word Hansie Cronge, At first I was surprised there was a film about him as being a freak cricket fan, I never heard of it. Anyway, I clicked on the title and started watching it, Unfamiliar to the actors, I tend to feel attached to the narrative.

To clear the air, Hansie is not all about cricket, It covers some harsh facets of his life, I didn't know the man but heard a lot about him. He was a legend, praised by Icons like Imran Khan as he changed the dynamics of cricket in South Africa after the Apartheid era. He was alleged of thrown matches, a controversy which shook the highest tables of ICC as their favourite child India was involved in it. Hansie was dethroned, he tried to recompense his life and during all those struggles, he died in a plane crash, and left for the heavenly abode.

As soon as I finished the film, I read some reviews which tarnished the film, but contrary to them, I found a slice of life in it. A unique way of presenting Hansie with minimal resources, one reviewer mocked the cricket matches displayed in the movie, well Mate if you're reading this then Hansie was not about his cricket, it was about his attitude towards his dream, It's about the temptations which challenges his faith, it was about the traps which ended his career. It was about the betting world which destroyed the careers of talented men, I recounted 2 people, who lost to temptations one of them is Salman Butt, a young left-handed opener who destroyed his life after getting the bait.

Yes, I truly agree, the film was not a spectacle like other cricketing films, but it has the soul to hug you and show you the many emotions and tragedies of life. It's a film for those who celebrate sports, faith, love, friendships and life.

We love you Hansie and always will...!!!

[fahadkashmiri7 · 7/10 · 9 June 2014]

As an Indian kid growing up in 90's i have fague memories of this dominating South African cricket team consisting of some modern greats. Jonty, Donald, Zulu, Pollock, Cullinan, Gibbs, Gary, Mc millan brothers to name a few. But the person i really admired as a cricketer in those days was this smart, cool headed captain naming Hansie Cronje. When all this match fixing saga came up i was very upset and deep down in my heart i was praying that Hansie should deny all those allegations. But my worst fear came true when Hansie confessed everything in front of the whole world in the King's commission. Well coming to the film.. Franc did a wonderful job by letting the world know what had really happened with Hansie. The film was scene to scene enactment what must have really happened in Hansie's life. And to be honest it was difficult to sit through it coz Hansie did let down his fans, his colleagues and most importantly his nation. But are we the right person to judge him? There are some people in this world whom we want to hate, but just can't. Hansie was one of them. RIP bro. We'll always love you. 7 out of 10.

A silly movie about a silly man

[Spaceygirl · 2/10 · 8 December 2008]

Dire and Dismal...Hansie disappoints on so many levels. A great South African story about a disgraced hero that just falls flat. The acting is bad..so bad. The actress who portrays Bertha CRonje is horrible, her accent is all over the place and it's quite off putting. The lead is good-looking, a little too good-looking to play Hansie Cronje who was a rugged, 'Camel man' type. He certainly didn't have the piercing blue eyes that Frank Rautenbach has. The only one who shows any kind of acting chops is Brandon Auret, whom South African audiences will recognise from TV's Binnelanders. The script is painful, the dialogue stilted. The films only saving grace is the cinematography, portraying as it does some of the most beautiful places in South Africa, Fancourt in George in particular in a stand-out scene near the end of the movie. The Christian aspect is slightly overplayed..are we supposed to accept that a crook and conman was also a devout Christian? This theme doesn't sit very comfortably with the rest of the film and the 'baptism' scene in particular being slightly jarring. The whole tone of the film seems rushed and fails on so many levels.

Wonderful true story, #MustWatch

[jaishkaleekkal · 9/10 · 19 May 2015]

Wonderful true story, #Must Watch. This movies shows the way of temptation and how it influence our day to day living. Hansie was a great cricketer in the world history. I think he influenced and influencing a lot of people through his life testimony. This movie points a perfect example for everyone's day to day life. How to Life and How to deal the situations in life. And also give a guidance to stay strong. I recommend this movie to everyone. watch this and throw feedback here. I believe this movie will touch everyone. It holds a great life story. Highly commenting. watch and life. enjoy and learn. Love and life faithfully. temptation is not a small thing. Deal it well, with the help of GOD.

Life Lessons ..bribery..gambling.. it's just not Cricket!

[clive-43565 · 8/10 · 28 February 2021]

Pretty good movie. I am American raised in England with some knowledge of the really beautiful game .. Cricket. It's beauty is in the conduct and sporting spirit of the way it is played.. for example, if the fielder knows the ball touched the ground before he caught it by honor he willingly declares it to avoid an unfair dismissal of the batsman that they are trying to get out. So what makes the movie important is to show how nothing is sacred to the lovers of money. Not even cricket. Also highlights that once you accept a bribe or gift shall we say, it's almost impossible to avoid future negative consequences. We all know about this whether personally or in politics. Acting was better than expected and the cricket scenes were solid and accurate. Also the situations with the bad guys make you realize how easy it can be to fall into bad company. Money or rather the love of it is a ticket to disaster. Enjoyed the account of the famous parable of the prodigal son from a different perspective. Inspiring.

A must watch for cricket fans

[zzzorf · 8/10 · 18 March 2018]

I have looking forward to watching this movie ever since I first heard about it over a year back and when I was able to find a copy of it only a few weeks back I was over the moon. I grew up a bi fan of cricket here in Australia and Cronje was one of the best. I didn't know much of the details of his disgrace so this film would be an eye opener for me. This film handles the topic well handling both the highs and lows with dignity.

Of course the movie is not without its flaws, as to be expected by it being just a local production and not a big screen epic. The most notable was using video game footage to replace actual game footage. While it was a unique idea it was a little offputting.

A must watch for any cricket fans.