Vaya

Local drama. With Sibusiso Msimang, Zimkhitha Nyoka and Sihle Xaba. Director: Akin Omotoso. 13LV. In SA cinemas now.

The latest film by director Akin Omotoso (Tell Me Sweet Something) is set in the vibrant but often dangerous streets of Joburg. Three strangers make their way from rural KwaZuluNatal to the big city where their naivety about urban life will have grim consequences.

Wide-eyed Zanele (Nyoka) is escorting a young girl to her shebeen-queen mother, Thobeka (Nomonde Mbusi); guileless eldest son Nkulu (Msimang) needs to collect his father’s body for burial; and verbose Nhlanhla (Xaba) wants to make some quick cash to pay lobola by helping out his gangster cousin Xolani (Warren Masemola).

The atmospheric film starts off sedately but the three interlinking stories will have you on the edge of your seat by the end.

It’s heartrending and real, with beautiful cinematography, a spot-on soundtrack and flawless performances by each member of the ensemble cast, making this a film that sticks with you. – BIANCA LAMBRECHTS