Katutura: A brave and compelling tale

Movie title: Katutura Director: Florian Schott *** The film Katutura has been on my mind the entire week. Offering an opinion on the entire production is extremely tough, especially since the film received such a warm reception and rightfully so. Still, the truth is I have been extremely indecisive and find myself questioning where I draw the line between patriotism and honesty. Director Florian Schott and the entire production can be proud. There were brilliant moments that touched me in ways that good art generally does. I do believe that the movie captured the spirit and essence of Katutura. I love complex characters, as they make for an unpredictable storyline, and the film offered loads of them. Without giving the entire story away, there is no doubt that many will be able to relate to the characters of Foibe - played by Tjuna Kauapirura - and Esme - played by Odile Müller. Both of Tjuna and Odile showed commitment, in often impressive fashion. I was consumed by Odile’s crying scenes. She was bitter and angry, yet vulnerable, broken and warm. How she portrayed all these complex emotions is hard to comprehend. And yes, I was nostalgic, because I could relate to many of Esme’s personal struggles. Mara Baumgartner, who played Dangi’s vengeful mother, was one of my favourites in the movie. Mara was compelling in ways that’s hard to explain. It was almost as if she had steel in her eyes. Chops Tshoopara was just as convincing in his role as Dangi - troubled man who rises to the occasion to become the hero. However, I did find myself rolling my eyes at Dangi and Foibe’s kissing scenes, which were just not convincing. While they definitely had chemistry, it seemed to disappear every time they kissed. However, this may have been the aim, considering Dangi had a secret life that included having a son with Esme. Gift Uzera, who played a boy in a wheelchair called Kondja, was another stand out star. The same cannot be said for Kandi Shejavali, who played Ndapewa, Obed Emvula, who played Shivago, and Wilzahn Gelderbloem, who Nancy. This is startling, considering that these characters were present throughout the movie. However, my major disappointment was that it almost seemed like a couple of scenes had something missing and lacked cohesiveness. One minute Foibe and Esme are talking in park, and the next it’s another scene and you just find yourself wondering how you got there. The same can be said about Esme making amends with the people she had hurt. Prior to that, there is no indication that she has any desire to ask for forgiveness. The movie starts with Dangi’s brother being shot. However, the man who played Dangi’s brother looked way too young to have had slept with Esme. However, despite all of this, I still think that the movie oozed brilliance. It’s a story of love, hate, manipulation and tragedy, and a dose of all these make for a great film. Katutura is a must see for everyone who has loved and been hurt, and is also for those brave enough see what makes us vengeful, bitter and yet heroic and selfless.