Your classic Afrikaans rom-com
Starring: Andre Lotter and Marisa Drummond
Plot: Jay van Niekerk is a young, attractive and career driven comic book animator. Although he is advancing in almost every aspect of his personal and professional life, his one true desire seems to be the one furthest from reach. This has brought him to a crossroad in his life. Does he give up and keep fully focused on his career or does he finally open his heart to fulfill his deep longing for love and set out to meet the woman of his dreams? Someone funny, someone bright, who will appreciate his love of comics and embrace his eccentric lifestyle. When he least expects it, a woman appears. Her free spirit mesmerises Jay and when he lays eyes on Ally for the first time, he chooses the fork in the road that leads in her direction. Ally develops an extremely fond attraction to Jay’s weary and cautious nature. However the road is not without its complication as Ally’s overprotective father and Jay’s imaginary world proves to be testing obstacles in Jay’s attempts to prove himself worthy of her hand. Loaded with a good balance of romance, comedy, tragedy and retribution, Ally is a romantic-comedy shining with charisma.
Remarks: Romantic comedies are a genre in which Afrikaans films flourish. Films like ‘Vir Altyd’ and ‘Pad Na Jou Hart’ are amongst the highest-grossing South African films of all time. ‘Eintlik Nogal Baie’ follows in their footsteps but doesn’t hit all the notes.
What the team behind the film did really well was pick the cast. Andre Lotter and Marisa Drummond were fantastic in their lead roles. The two have incredibly chemistry. You felt their passion, their hunger and their pain and it’s incredible when a film gets this aspect right. Supporting stars Ashmund Martin and Zak Hendrikz also did a really good job in their respective roles.
The story, however, was a bit predictable. I found myself constantly guessing the film’s next step which was frustrating because the story had so much potential. The first half of the film felt a bit long as well. However, there is an exciting twist at the end which changes everything and you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat.
Despite this, the film carried an important message – live in the moment. Take advantage of the now, experience new things and take risks – especially with love. Ally does this with such ease and it’s clear what an incredible effect it has on her life.
The film is shot beautifully. Not only is attention to detail noticeable in every scene but the beautiful shots of Cape Town are incredible. This aesthetic adds so much to the quality of the film and the team really did a great job in this regard.
Overall, this film isn’t anything groundbreaking. However, it’s an awesome way to spend an evening and you will leave with a new outlook on life. An enjoyable film, indeed.
Rating: 3/5
Eintlin Nogal Baie releases on 4 November 2016.
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