Review of Catch a Fire (2006) by John T — 21 Nov 2007
The best film ever made about the troubles in South Africa is Cry Freedom , directed by Richard Attenborough in 1987. There have been many films broaching the same subject but none have been anywhere near as good as the film about Steve Bico.
Catch a fire is the closest yet .
Based on the real-life story of Patrick Chamusso, this political thriller spans the years from South Africa's turbulent 1980s to the present day. Patrick is an oil refinery employee and soccer player who is apolitical--until he and his wife are brutalized by government-sanctioned terror squads. Shocked into action, Patrick reorients his sense of self and purpose. Even as policeman Nic Vos further insinuates himself into the lives of Patrick and his family, Patrick becomes a rebel fighter and political operative, staging daring solo attacks against the brutal apartheid regime. Change must and will come, not only for South Africa but also for Patrick, Nic, and those closest to them.
The acting from Derek Luke and Bonnie Henna who play Patrick and Precious is fantastic but I have to question the choice of Tim Robbins as Nic Vos. Despite the constant face pulling his performance isn't too bad but I would have liked a South African to play the part. I suppose the big American name helps sell the movie.
This film really does explain how previously law abiding citizens can turn to terrorism for a cause if treated inhumanely.
There is a lovely moment at the end where the real Patrick meats the actor who plays him and we get to see what a fantastic man he really is.
Recommended.
8 out of 10.
This review of Catch a Fire (2006) was written by John T on 21 Nov 2007.
Catch a Fire has generally received positive reviews.
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