Come Back, Africa
Come Back, Africa

Movie spotlight

Come Back, Africa

1959
Movie
95 min
English

Come Back, Africa chronicles the life of Zachariah, a black South African living under the rule of the harsh apartheid government in 1959.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes100%
Director: Lionel RogosinGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

The film follows a Black South African migrant worker named Zachariah who leaves his rural home seeking work in the city of Johannesburg during the apartheid era. He experiences the harsh realities of urban life, including exploitation, poverty, and racial segregation. Zachariah's journey is a poignant depiction of the struggles faced by Black Africans under oppressive rule.

Critical Reception

Come Back, Africa was highly acclaimed by critics for its raw and unflinching portrayal of apartheid. It was praised for its authentic depiction of South African life and its powerful anti-apartheid message, garnering significant international attention for the injustices faced by the Black population. The film is considered a landmark in documentary filmmaking and a crucial historical document.

What Reviewers Say

  • A powerful and deeply moving exposé of apartheid's cruelty.

  • Remarkable for its authenticity and the performances of its non-professional actors.

  • An essential film for understanding the historical context of South African oppression.

Google audience: Information not available.

Awards & Accolades

Screened at the Venice Film Festival and received international recognition for its powerful anti-apartheid message.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in secret and its cast and crew were unaware that they were making a feature film; they were told it was a documentary about everyday life, which allowed for a more natural and candid performance.

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