Raaiselkind

This is only the second South African movie that I've watched (the first being the engrossing 2021 film "I am All Girls"). Like the first, this film is equally compelling.

It's a tragic, heartbreaking story that could happen to any family. The viewer gets up close to a family that undergoes all the pain, frustration and anxiety in dealing with an autistic child/brother. What makes it worse is that, for a time, they didn't know exactly what's ailing young Alexander. His arrival in this world was eagerly awaited by parents who are expecting their first son at last.

Slowly but surely, the family disintegrates: husband Dawid resorts to drinking, the elder daughter wants Alexander committed to an institution. On top of these, expenses for Alexander's care mounts which makes Dawid understandably worried. Outside, Ingrid loses her friends. The only constant in this situation is Ingrid's unconditional love for her son, whatever or whoever he is.

A bright spot in Ingrid's life comes In the form of a household help doubling as Alexander's substitute caregiver--Miriam (Kune Van Merch).

The story unfolds as a series of flashbacks prompted by the police investigation. This approach works as a device in storytelling, an effective substitute to a linear exposition of events.

It's a simple story but which definitely tugs at our heartstrings. The actors perform well. Young Ian Roelofs ably portrays the autistic Alexander, quite a demanding role for a young actor indeed. Bravo.

The haunting, melancholic musical score adds a gloomy tone to a depressing story.

Watch this film to be reminded how precious life is. That whatever life dishes out, we must be prepared to play the cards we are dealt.

I had very high expectations about this film and I was pleasantly rewarded. The story-line was just brilliant. The story speaks very close to home as much of what was portrayed I found relatable, heartbreaking, entertaining, inspiring and thought provoking. I normally have a large popcorn when watching movies and finish it within the first hour, but in this case my popcorn was more than half at the end. I can't remember the last time I paid this much attention to a movie. I would hate to single out characters as every character portrayed was executed perfectly. This film speaks volumes. I'm very happy that I got a chance to view something so real, raw and beautiful.

I work with children with autism. Some are significantly impaired. I often tell myself it's so hard for these parents to have to watch their child all day... keep them safe and in the meantime often have no lives themselves. This movie shares a little if what it maybe line behind the scenes. The stress on marriages is real. There is a high incidence of divorce in families where kids have disabilities. The level of help outside school is limited. The incidence and diagnosis of children with autism continues to rise. I am not sure if the child actor in this movie has autism or not but if he does not, he should have won an award. My only criticism is the music score at time so depressing, it almost made me want to stop watching.

I've haven't in recent times taken SA movies seriously. I watched this movie and what a gripping movie from start to end. Diaan Lawrenson gives a performance worthy of an Oscar. The challenges of Autism is real and the support needed around parents is indeed vital. If you have or know someone facing a struggle with an Autistic child this is indeed a movie to give some insight. Definitely a must watch. It takes you deeper into issues if trauma, stress and how a lack of support systems can have dire consequences emotionally and personally within your life, your family and many around you. A definite win for South African cinema.