Review of Tsotsi (2005) by Wendy S — 10 Feb 2008

A complex, layered character study, as Tsotsi struggles to cope with a baby he has inadvertently abducted and the police close in on his trail. Its interesting as the lead character is borderline psychotic in his inability to empathise with those around him, but itâ??s testament to the leads outstanding performance that such a frightening individual is understood and embraced by the audience, even as his actions repel.

Shot largely in desaturated, sepia tones in Sowetoâ??s claustrophobic shanty towns, the raw energy of Tsotsiâ??s existence is in neat contrast to the wealthy couple whose baby he has stolen. I can see comparisons of the movie to one of my favourites, City of God and I do think itâ??s a close second for this genre.

The director gives us a conclusion which could have been mawkish and sentimental but is instead bittersweet, both painful and quietly affirming.