Umjolo: There Is No Cure is the fourth instalment in the South African “Umjolo” anthology series, directed by Mthunzi Dubazana and written by Thuli Zuma. The movie was released on February 14, 2025. This film is currently streaming on Netflix. It has a maturity rating (18+) and runs for 1 hour and 18 minutes.
THE PREMISE
The narrative centre’s on Thoko Duma, the first openly lesbian Miss South Africa. After a controversial second-place finish at Miss Universe, Thoko’s refusal to accept defeat leads to a scandalous interview, costing her title as Miss South Africa.
In an effort to reclaim her reputation, she decides to publish a tell-all biography. She enlists the help of Liana Ndlovu (Her favourite writer),a talented yet introverted writer. As they collaborate, their professional relationship evolves into a complex and emotionally charged journey of self-discovery, love, and buried secrets. The big question is will they find the guts to face their feelings, or will their fears and situations keep them apart?
CAST AND PERFORMANCES
Londeka Sishi as Thoko Duma
Sishi delivers a compelling performance as Thoko, capturing the character’s confidence and vulnerability as she navigates public scrutiny and personal challenges.
Busisiwe Mtshali as Nana Liana Ndlovu
Mtshali portrays Nana with depth and authenticity, effectively conveying her internal struggles and growth throughout the film.
Tina Redman as Buhle
Redman provides strong support as Buhle, Thoko’s manager, portraying the character’s loyalty and the complexities of their professional relationship.
Yonda Thomas as Zweli
Thomas reprises his role as Zweli, a good friend to Nana. Zweli provides emotional support and continuity within the anthology series, which enriches the film’s exploration of relationships.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE MOVIE
I have to start by saying that I love the concept of various installment of a series. It reminds me of a lot of American series, how they seamlessly integrates familiar faces from the previous installments. These subtle yet meaningful appearances from past characters creates a sense of continuity, making the anthology feel like a cohesive universe rather than a collection of disconnected love stories. This approach adds depth to the overall experience, making it feel as though the audience is revisiting a world they’ve come to know and love.
It’s a pretty entertaining South African lesbian love triangle that doesn’t drag on too long! The film excels in portraying a nuanced LGBTQ+ romance, a theme not frequently explored in mainstream South African cinema. The chemistry between Sishi and Mtshali is palpable, making their characters’ journey both engaging and heartfelt. The narrative’s focus on self-discovery and personal growth adds depth to the romantic storyline.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK
While the film offers a refreshing take on romance, certain plot developments adhere to predictable tropes, which may detract one from the overall impact. Some supporting characters could have been more fully developed to enhance their contributions to the story. Additionally, the pacing at times feels uneven, potentially affecting audience engagement.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Umjolo: There Is No Cure stands out as a significant entry in the “Umjolo” anthology, offering a heartfelt exploration of love, identity, and personal growth within the South African context. Despite some clichés, the strong performances and emotional resonance make it a worthwhile watch for fans of romantic dramas and those seeking diverse narratives in cinema.
How Would I Rate This Movie?
I would rate the movie 3 stars out of 5.
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