Das Fenster zum Tod

The first half fades slightly, but in the second half the film gains more of its tempo and tension. Toward the end we are rewarded with a cool end ... you can watch the movie.

Something about suspense movies always catches my eye, and "Number 37" was nothing short of intense. South-African director Nosipho Dumisa knew how to really capture my attention in this fast-paced action thriller about a handicapped man, who, in trying to get money to pay off a debt to a loan shark, witnesses the murder of a cop and decides to blackmail the criminals. I won't give away too much, but the story moves quickly and keeps you hanging on the edge of your seat, even until the very last minute. One thing that truly stuck out to me was the phenomenal acting put forth by the two leading characters. Irshaad Ally, who plays the handicapped protagonist Randal, gives an emotional whirlwind of a performance that gives the audience full access to the mind of the character. Monique Rockman, who plays his girlfriend Pam, is able push past the stereotypical character of the loyal girlfriend of a criminal by presenting a strong and bold, yet loving presence on the screen. Each character works together to perfectly create a glimpse of humanity in this wild world of crime and pride. I highly suggest you check this one out!

Especially if you are watching this in Germany and or another country that puts the comparison or likelihood in the title. Rear Window or Fenster zum Hof = Window to the yard is the Hitchock movie I'm talking about. So this movie is called "Fenster zum Tod" = Window to Death ... and if you watch this, it is not far fetched. There are simillarities to say the least.

But while we have someone watching someone else through their window, this is not as tense as the Original was. If you compare those two, you most likely will not like this newer altered version of it. Unless you are into action and characters doing things as wrong/stupid as possible to create even more tension ... still overall you can enjoy this for what it is ...

The true tragedy that makes this film so powerful comes from the unfortunate truth that humans are inherently "greedy little piggies". Director/Writer Nosipho Dumisa powerfully embodies this flaw in each of her characters, and makes it highly individualized through a screenplay that relies more on character development than gore. The conflict of every role is crafted by powerful performances, particularly Monique Rockman, who plays her role of the abused girlfriend as seemingly regretful more than she is spiteful. Every instance of tension is capped-off by an unwarranted act of violence that draws sympathy from audiences. Dumisa makes it impossible to ignore the unfortunate circumstances that protagonists and antagonists alike are thrown into, which had such a strong impact that I found myself questioning my own morality as I exited the theater.

Foreign films don't get enough credit. The direction of this South African movie was incredible. Directors, often struggle with capturing these sensitive topics, but I thought the combination of emotional acting and intense storyline allowed these issues to be illustrated in a way they deserved. The film, which follows a paraplegic man who attempts to use criminal means to make his way out of poverty, gets progressively more thrilling as it goes along. I was on the edge of my seat by the end of the movie! A must see for anyone who loves suspense.