‘Umjolo: My Beginning, My End!’ is a clichéd soap-esque film with ‘Runaway Bride’ vibes
I’ve been following the “Umjolo” film series on Netflix recently. It’s the first-ever launch of such on the giant streaming platform.
And, for the better part of the offerings, it’s been refreshing, relatable and entertaining.
Set against the South African cultural backdrop, the stories reflect the upheavals of modern dating. While hard-hitting, uncomfortable and unpredictable, it is also empowering, heartfelt and inspiring.
To date, I’ve binge-watched “Umjolo: The Gone Girl” and “Umjolo: Day Ones”. Both films were slice-of-life takes on situationships.
Of course, when I happened upon “Umjolo: My Beginning, My End!”, I couldn’t resist hitting play.
Directed by Zuko Nodada, the script is penned by Thuli Zuma and Thutu Zuma and it is bolstered by a phenomenal cast as well: Baby Cele, Nombulelo Mhlongo, Busisiwe Mtshali, Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku, Tina Redman, Shezi Sibongiseni, Londeka Sishi and Yonda Thomas.
My first gripe with this film is the duration of it, which is 113 minutes. It feels like streamers are shortchanged when it comes to immersing themselves in the journey of the protagonists.
At the heart of the story is Mayi (Nokwe-Mseleku), an incurable romantic. Weeks away from walking down the aisle with Sizwe Jama (Nkanyiso Makhanya), Mayi’s life trajectory takes an unforeseen turn when she meets Zweli (Thomas).
Spending her 30th milestone birthday by herself, she ends up at the venue where Zweli plays.
Sparks fly and the chemistry leads to Mayi throwing caution to the window and giving in to her feelings.
Meanwhile, preparations for her upcoming nuptials are in full swing.
While Mayi comes from a working-class family, Sizwe is from an influential family. As such, his family takes every opportunity to flaunt their wealth, especially at an awkward joint-family luncheon, where things take an interesting turn.
Let’s just say that despite appearances, the Jamas have a skeleton in their closet.
With the big day coming up, Mayi is conflicted about whether to go through with it or not, especially after a misunderstanding relating to Zweli’s family issue.
Aside from my annoyance over the shortened time frame of the film, there were other niggling factors that left me questioning whether perhaps there was too much haste in delivering these offerings.
Did the writers get tired midway, which resulted in this clichéd, soap-esque offering?
Honestly, the actors can’t be faulted. They play their roles as genuinely as possible. But the narrative lacked depth and conviction.
The ending gives viewers “Runaway Bride” vibes. Watch it if you are a fan of the franchise or talent but don’t expect much from the third “Umjolo” instalment.
Rating: 2/5
Rating system:
* signals a poorly executed film with minimal redeeming qualities.
** significant flaws but some merit.
*** solid and enjoyable, though not groundbreaking.
**** a standout film with exceptional qualities.
***** reserved for cinematic masterpieces that excel on every level.