Catching Feelings

I was excited to see this movie as an ex-South African. And I loved the scenery, the Joburg vibe, the reality of this little slice of middle class South Africa. But, on the other hand I was bored. The movie was slow. The acting was ok, but the story line weak. I found myself skipping parts. So a medium review I'm afraid. Hoping for better stuff next time.

Husband and I reluctantly started watching the movie, not sure where the story was going. Good job we persevered, difficult to watch in places but with a stimulating sense of social realism and a focus on the thoughts and motivations of characters as opposed to a goal-driven storyline. Would love to see Kagiso Lediga on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah!

It's so great to see a fresh perspective coming out of Johannesburg and this film has plenty of moments that feel so authentically real for modern South Africans. I loved the characters, the snappy dialogue, particularly from Lediga, with his dry, politically charged wit. The subtle socio-political commentary was also really brilliantly executed. But there were some low moments too. The story felt disjointed and the characters didn't seem to develop. We learn that they are both going through their own internal conflict, but we never see them deal with it openly as a couple or find any resolution in the end. Max is cynical and pessimist, stuck in a creative rut but ultimately doesn't seem to change or learn anything in the end. The ending is rushed and confusing. I get that there were some things that needed to be left unsaid, but there were definitely some that required a little more rounding off to give the viewer closure.

I had the chance to watch this movie with the director himself. A really great movie that takes place in the nice spots of Jozi & Cape Town. It's absolutely great to see Johannesburg city differently in this movie. It's (too) often associated to violence, safety, robbery etc. Couple relation is the main topic of this movie. The way it is approached with great sensibility and humor is a real pleasure to watch.

I highly recommend this movie on a cold sunday of winter with a hot chocolate and your loved one :-)

Thanks a lot!

This movie is perfect. The people, the standard is tops... everything. It definitely didn't get the publicity and attention it deserves. Give us more Kagiso.