Material

South African's are known for rugby, cricket, good wine and many other things, but let's be honest, we've never really been "known" for our acting.

I am an AVID cinema-goer and I can honestly say that Material is one of the most beautiful film's I have seen in a long time.

As I was sitting in the movie house I found my heart SWELL with pride to the point where it almost burst right out of my chest! These guys did all the work and yet there in my seat, I felt so proud to be called South African.

And to top it off, there are a number of scenes that are absolutely hilarious! I can't remember the last time I laughed from my belly.

The Material movie is an ABSOLUTE MUST-SEE!

Material Movie is a classic story of tradition versus modernity of change verse tradition. It is warm, funny, dramatic and engaging. Vincent Ebrahim gives an award winning performance equally matched by Riaad Moosa's excellent rendition of the stand-up comic by night obedient son by day.

This movie will be enjoyed by everyone. There is seldom a movie that appeals to both the general populace and the Muslim community but this movie bridges the divide.

Excellent production, inspired script and compelling acting make this a must see movie

Like everybody else, my expectations of SA films are low (not for lack of talent but for their leaning towards the overly emotional or slapstick.'Material' really surprises and strikes that delicate balance of being at once, thought provoking, touching and funny. Particularly noteworthy is its restraint, which prevents it from becoming clichéd and bollywood-like, making it a universal but South African story. Acting was excellent all round, the script was great and the cinematography was brilliant(Fordsburg was an equally forceful character in the film and I particularly loved the shots from within the store as the light peers in,when the store shutters are rolled up every morning, emphasizing the act as a ritual), but it was the absolutely brilliant score that stood out the most for me. Great job all round...

A sensitive and funny movie - no it can't be South African, known for its blunt and slapstick, almost retarded approach to comedy.

But it is! The characters are well defined, the casting and acting by and large excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it, and left the theater feeling uplifted, happy and positive. This is why I go to movies. I loved it.

If I have any criticism, the movie lapses once or twice into sentimental "musical" moments, but these are short lived, and may even actually add to the enjoyment. Also, the movie seems a little rushed at the end, as if it ran out of time, and loose ends had to be tied up too quickly. Maybe I was enjoying it so much I didn't want it to end. But I am having to nit pick, to find negatives.

Well done to the producers, this movie makes me so proud. I sincerely hope it marks a sea change in our approach to movie-making. We have so much talent, so many excellent locations, such passionate people - like Ronnie Apteker - I'm hoping we start producing more movies like this and show the world we can do it.

Finally South Africa has made a film that touches the human heart, this film transgresses racial divides and talks to the universal human insights we can all relate to.

The film is a great mix of comedy, stand up and real drama that we all face in our day to day lives.

Riaad Moosa gives a performance that is honest and sincere, there's great cinematography and superb direction in all the characters and performances.

This film is a must see by all South Africans and anyone who loves great storytelling!