Review of Catch a Fire (2006) by Raj D — 20 Apr 2007

Catch a Fire.

This movie was released in 2006. But commercially it did not do well, and that it why there were no distributors for Europe market. At last we got to see this movie after nearly a year in the box.

This movie is a true story of Patrick Chamusso during (1980-90s) South Africa?s fight against apartheid regimes. Derek Luke plays Patrick and Bonnie Mbuli plays his wife; whereas Tim Robbins plays Colonel Nic Vos who represents the monstrous evil of white rule.

This movie depicted a making of a terrorist. Especially in today?s world of globalization where Multi-nationals companies are spreading their wings to acquire meager resources of indigenous people this movie becomes very relevant for all to see. There are more than 16 regions within India where terrorist insurgency and naxal movements are flourishing to fight the evil of state government.

The director Philip Noyce (Clear and Present Danger, Patriot Games) has always made political statements and movies that show the ugly side of white supremacy. He has been hated by many for showing it throughout his career.

A special mention should of cinematographer Ron Fortunato and Garry Phillips for beautifully capturing the beauty of South Africa. There is no background musical score in the movie but the Sound Department team has mixed the African folk songs and dance as integrated part of the narrative.

Derek and Bonnie - look a perfect pair and both are very good looking. Derek matches his previous award winning performance of Antwone Fisher; he chooses true story characters for his roles and excels in them. Tim Robbin plays the Colonel (he has this next door looking guy) ? but gives cold shivers with his controlled performance.

The beautiful close-up shots depict every emotion of the characters and I was in the movie since its beginning. There are a few slack holes in the script and even though the movie is very good ? one feels that something is missing.

All in all a sensitive movie to see for everyone; especially all white communities ? who invaded different nations and ruled them as their own land. I end with a quote from the movie - What will your children say about you?

(Stars 7.75 out of 10).