The Queenstown Kings (2023)

About the Movie The Queenstown Kings

The Queenstown Kings is a South African sports drama about the complexities of familial relationships. The movie is set against the backdrop of soccer aspirations.

The story follows the life of Fezile Gigaba, a 17-year-old football prodigy from Komani (formerly Queenstown), who dreams of becoming a soccer star.

His ambitions are challenged by the return of his estranged father, Buyile Mahamba, a former professional footballer whose career has declined. Buyile struggles with alcohol.

The narrative explores their evolving relationship as Buyile takes on the role of coaching his son’s team, intertwining personal redemption with the pursuit of shared dreams.

Main Plot & Characters

• Fezile Gigaba (Likhona Mgali): A talented young soccer player determined to carve his own path in the sport, independent of his father’s legacy.
• Buyile Mahamba (Zolisa Xaluva): Once a celebrated footballer, now struggling with his faded glory, who returns to Queenstown to reconnect with his son and rediscover his identity through coaching.
• Supporting Characters: Unathi Platyi, Tessa Twala, Thoko Ntshinga, and Sandile Mahlangu portray community members and family friends who influence the protagonists’ journeys.

The film portrays the emotional and psychological challenges faced by both father and son as they navigate their strained relationship, personal ambitions, and the pressures of societal expectations.

Key Themes of The Queenstown Kings

The movie explores themes of redemption, the pursuit of dreams, and the complexities of father-son relationships within the context of South African culture and soccer.

Themes Explored in Depth

• Redemption and Second Chances: Highlights Buyile’s journey to reclaim his sense of purpose and mend his relationship with his son.
• Individual vs. Collective Aspirations: Examines Fezile’s internal conflict between personal glory and team success.
• Legacy and Identity: Explores how familial legacies impact personal identity and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

Setting & Filming Locations

The film is set in Komani (Queenstown), South Africa, capturing the local culture and the community’s passion for soccer.

Fun Facts about the Movie

• Director’s Vision: Jahmil X.T. Qubeka, known for his work on Knuckle City and Of Good Report, brings a nuanced portrayal of South African life and sports culture.
• Authentic Performances: To prepare for their roles, Likhona Mgali joined a local football team, and he spent time living with Zolisa Xaluva to build a genuine father-son dynamic.
• Cultural Significance: The film sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of pursuing sports careers in South Africa, reflecting broader societal themes.

Cast

• Zolisa Xaluva as Buyile Mahamba
• Likhona Mgali as Fezile Gigaba
• Unathi Platyi as Fana Gigaba
• Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa as Xoliswa Gigaba
• Tessa Twala as Boity
• Thoko Ntshinga as Sasa Mahamba
• Sandile Mahlangu as Percy Dladla
• Patrick Ndlovu as Mkhulu
• Aphiwe Mkefe as Major Dilima
• Khanya Mkangisa – Pelisa

Awards

In 2024, The Queenstown Kings won four 4 Awards at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for Best Film in an African Language, Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Director and Achievement in Sound.

Have you seen the movie The Queenstown Kings? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.