Angeliena

This movie has quite a sad story to it, however Angeliena's bright and colourful world adds so much more to it. This movie really showcases why people need to live their dreams, before its too late. And also why it is so important to be unabashedly yourself. And because Angeliena is such a light in everybody's lives, it is touching to see how they look out for her in return. The main antagonist is very annoying which means he did alright. I also liked the diversity of the characters as well.

However, I must deduct points because at time the script of the movie fell a bit flat, and because the dynamics between the characters weren't engaging enough for me. Also I wish I could've learnt more about the characters and seen Angeliena's journey!

Even as a poorly developed script, and the lightweightedness of the entire film, it is still worth watching for the underlying message of 'make your dreams big, and your actions even bigger!'

It needed another rewrite and deeper characters. It had the makings of a tug at your heart Dear Frankie, without the talent and skill of Shona Auerbach. Instead it went for and achieved a shallow version of a 70's sitcom when it could have been so much more.

However, that said, the skill of Euodia Samson, the lead, is nothing to shake a stick at! She transformed herself into the character with the skill of Charlize Theron in Monster or Jamie Foxx in Ray, or Judi Dench in The Shipping News or just about anything that Cate Blanchett does! Bravo to her. Wish she had a better vehicle. She is pretty much carrying my 7 rating on her back.

Unique and creative storytelling that's heartwarming and colorful like the people it represents. A work of heart. The highly acclaimed cast tells you something about the respect and appreciation the director has earned amongst her peers, and she can be well proud.

I enjoyed the story, writing and hearing my mother tongue Afrikaan (Ive been living abroad for many years now).

The scriptwriting touches modern day issues and also gives answers or guidelines towards resolving these. I enjoyed the magical world Angeliena lives in.

The film gave me such a new found perspective based on us being so quick to judge the next person etc because we all have dreams and goals and to add, I love stories of the underdog!

A truly pure South African film which hits every nail on the head, in terms of the characters being truthful to the people they play based on the respective backgrounds they come from. It will have you laughing and next moment you will be consumed with emotion by the journey of Angeliena. The powerful thing that I took from this was that no matter your circumstance you are still capable of achieving your dreams.

To conclude, if there was a list of South African films that had to be selected to show the world, this would definitely be on that list.