South African cinema has carved a niche for itself in the thriller genre, delivering suspenseful narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From psychological twists to gripping crime dramas, here are five must-see South African thrillers that showcase the country’s prowess in creating tension-filled cinematic experiences.
- “Five Fingers for Marseilles” (2017)
Directed by Michael Matthews, “Five Fingers for Marseilles” is a gritty and intense neo-western thriller that unfolds in the rugged landscapes of the Eastern Cape. The film follows a group of childhood friends who reunite to confront a shared past marked by violence and crime. Filled with suspenseful moments and powerful performances, this thriller captivates with its atmospheric storytelling and exploration of justice in a post-apartheid landscape.
- “Number 37” (2018)
“Number 37,” directed by Nosipho Dumisa, is a Hitchcockian thriller that revolves around a paraplegic man who, confined to his apartment, becomes entangled in a web of crime and deception. Drawing inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window,” the film skillfully builds tension through its suspenseful plot and masterful cinematography. “Number 37” is a testament to South Africa’s ability to create compelling and globally resonant thrillers.
- “Hard to Get” (2014)
While previously mentioned in the action category, “Hard to Get” directed by Zee Ntuli is not only an action-packed film but also a gripping crime thriller. The movie follows the story of TK, a charismatic young man entangled with a crime boss, and combines high-energy action with a suspenseful narrative, making it a standout in the thriller genre.
- “Retribution” (2015)
Directed by Mukunda Michael Dewil, “Retribution” is a psychological thriller that follows a man who wakes up in a crashed car at the bottom of a ravine with no memory of who he is or how he got there. As he pieces together his past, he discovers a web of deceit and danger. The film skillfully plays with the audience’s perceptions and expectations, delivering a tense and unpredictable cinematic experience.
- “Tess” (2016)
Directed by Meg Rickards, “Tess” is a psychological thriller that explores the aftermath of a traumatic event in the life of a young woman named Tess. The film skillfully weaves together elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological drama as Tess grapples with the haunting memories of her past. “Tess” is a nuanced and atmospheric thriller that showcases South Africa’s ability to delve into the complexities of the human psyche.
These five South African thrillers, including “Five Fingers for Marseilles,” “Number 37,” “Hard to Get,” “Retribution,” and “Tess,” demonstrate the country’s capacity to deliver suspenseful and thought-provoking narratives. Whether exploring crime-ridden landscapes or delving into the intricacies of the human mind, these films offer a thrilling cinematic ride that leaves a lasting impact.
