Movie spotlight
Losing Lerato
Thami has recently lost his job at a top firm following accusations of fraudulent activities. This is the last straw for his wife Noluthando who, fearing a drop in her standard of living, abandons her marriage, taking their daughter Lerato with her. Thami is desperate to maintain a relationship with his daughter, while Noluthando does everything in her power to ensure that Thami is denied access to Lerato. After exhausting all known avenues, and desperate to be reunited with his daughter, Thami kidnaps Lerato from school, intending to flee Johannesburg for Kimberley by bus. This is an ill-conceived move which angers Noluthando and puts him on a collision course with the law. Thami’s actions put his life, that of Lerato and their fellow passengers in danger and leads to a high-stakes hostage situation on the bus. Then a shot rings out…
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Plot Summary
A young boy named Sipho is determined to reunite with his estranged mother. After his father moves him to a new town and prevents him from seeing her, Sipho embarks on a journey filled with challenges and self-discovery. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about family, love, and resilience. The film explores the complexities of parental relationships and the unbreakable bond between a child and their mother.
Critical Reception
Losing Lerato was generally well-received, particularly for its emotional depth and strong performances from its young lead and supporting cast. Critics praised its handling of sensitive family issues and its relatable narrative, making it a significant film within South African cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotional resonance and compelling storytelling.
Noted for strong performances, especially from the young protagonist.
Appreciated for its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and childhood resilience.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not widely available through Google user reviews.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Film at the 2020 Silwerskerm Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film's director, Tebogo Malatji, drew inspiration from personal experiences and observations of family dynamics in South Africa.
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