Moffie
Moffie

Moffie

2020Movie104 minAfrikaans

A young man in 1981 South Africa must complete his brutal and racist two years of compulsory military service while desperately maintaining the secrecy of his homosexuality.

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Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic84/100
Google Users86%
Director: Oliver HermanusGenres: Drama, War

Plot Summary

In 1981 South Africa, under the apartheid regime, all white 16-year-old boys were conscripted into the army. Nicholas is a sensitive young man struggling with his identity and his burgeoning homosexuality, which he must hide in the brutal and unforgiving environment of military service. Facing intense prejudice and the constant threat of violence, Nicholas navigates the dehumanizing rituals of war and the deep-seated homophobia of his fellow soldiers, searching for connection and survival.

Critical Reception

Moffie received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful performances, unflinching depiction of apartheid-era South Africa, and sensitive exploration of themes of identity, sexuality, and violence. Critics praised its visual style and emotional depth, though some noted its bleak subject matter. It was recognized as a significant and important film for its historical and social commentary.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stark, unflinching portrayal of military life and homosexuality under apartheid.
  • Acclaimed for its strong performances, particularly from the lead actor.
  • Recognized for its visually striking cinematography and emotional resonance.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated Moffie for its compelling narrative and the important historical context it provided, with many finding it a thought-provoking and moving experience. Some viewers noted the film's difficult subject matter but ultimately recognized its artistic merit and impact.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film at the British Independent Film Awards and won awards at various film festivals including the Teddy Award at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The title 'Moffie' is a derogatory Afrikaans slur for a gay man, reclaiming a word used to demean by making it the central focus of the film.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Although he doesn’t really have that many lines to deliver, it might be Hilton Pelser who makes most impact here as the obnoxious and bigoted “Sgt. Brand” who is in charge of a troop of national service conscripts in South Africa at the sta...