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Showing @ Filmhouse, Edinburgh, Thu 25 Oct only
Ndaba ka Ngwane / South Africa / 2012 / 90 min
Written and directed by Ndaba ka Ngwane, Uhlanga explores the journeys of three youths in contemporary South Africa, as they fight their respective demons to push their way to the top. With a fragmented narrative, we encounter all walks of South African life, centred around a talent show. The competition offers the protagonists an outlet for their suffering, and hints towards an escape from their fates. It is a truly stunning and visually arresting work, all absorbing, engrossing and visceral with a breathtaking scope covering human tragedy and triumph.
Acted entirely in Zulu, Uhlanga is notable for its reliance on the visual over the verbose, with richly expressive performances from its young actors. Each frame has a story to tell, and renders an astoundingly gripping and tangible energy thanks to cinematographer Khulekani Zondi. We are spellbound by flashing impressions which say so much more than any words could, by the sumptuous soundtrack, and an embracing palette of cinematic techniques, which keep audience interest entirely focused until the bittersweet end. Uhlanga makes the best possible use of the medium of film (despite a somewhat dissatisfying conclusion to the story) and emerges as an unforgettable and uplifting experience.
Showing as part of Africa in Motion Film Festival 2012.
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