Currently streaming on Netflix is Umjolo: My Beginning, My End! a South African Romantic Drama directed by Zuko Nodada and written by Thuli and Thuthu Zuma.
The film was released on January 3, 2025, and has a maturity rating (18+). It has a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes.
THE PREMISE
The story is about a woman named Mayi, who is engaged to marry Sizwe, the heir to an affluent family. On the Eve of her 30th birthday, Mayi meets Zweli, a charismatic saxophonist. This meeting leads her to question her upcoming marriage and the life path she’s chosen.
Though Zweli isn’t as wealthy as Sizwe, their connection is undeniable, and sparks fly from their very first date, ending in a kiss. However, Zweli’s discovery of Mayi’s engagement causes him to hesitate. Despite this, love pushes him to persist, and Mayi begins to reconsider her path.
But just as Mayi leans toward Zweli, his past resurfaces in a way that complicates everything. Hurt by the situation, Mayi decides to stick with her engagement and move forward with the wedding. Yet, on her wedding day, fate intervenes as Zweli appears, forcing Mayi to make a decision. Will she honour her duty or take a leap toward the love she truly desires?
CAST AND PERFORMANCES
Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku plays the role of Mayi. Nokwe-Mseleku performance, capturing Mayi’s internal conflict and emotional journey with authenticity.
Yonda Thomas brings charm and passion to the role of Zweli. He portrays a free-spirited artist who challenges Mayi’s perceptions of love and happiness.
Nkanyiso Makhanya as Sizwe was commendable. He portrayed the role of a wealthy young man who loves and cares for his Fiancee.
Busisiwe Mtshali played the role of Nana. Mtshali provides strong support as Nana, Mayi’s confidante and provided comic relief.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE MOVIE
The film excels in its portrayal of complex relationships and the societal expectations surrounding them. There was so much chemistry between Nokwe-Mseleku and Thomas. The incorporation of South African cultural elements adds authenticity and enriches the storytelling. The movie’s cinematography and the camera work is quite creative.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK
While the narrative is compelling, certain plot developments felt quite predictable, adhering to familiar romantic drama tropes.
Additionally, most of the characters were underdeveloped, the dragging narrative and cumbersome character development made it difficult to immerse the story fully. The talented cast deserved a better script to showcase their abilities truly, but unfortunately, the writing fell flat, leaving the film underwhelming.
When it comes to Mayi though, she just exists. She sends money to her family, but we never really learn how she is earning that money. Most of the time, she is sleeping by herself, sleeping with someone, having meals with her parents or her in-laws, and that’s about it. Her romance with Zweli felt rushed, and her relationship with Sizwe is equally baffling and not quite relatable.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Umjolo: My Beginning, My End! offers a heartfelt exploration of love, choice, and self-discovery within the framework of South African culture. Despite some clichés, the strong performances and emotional depth makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of romantic dramas.
RATING: 3.5 out of 5
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