Moffie A harrowing look into the secret identity of a
homosexual conscript in the 1980s
Brümmer) is an eighteen-year-old English-speaking white boy struggling to come to terms with his sexuality. Toxic masculinity has the upper hand in the dorms, showers and out in the field and derogatory slurs are evident in most scenes. When a situation between a same sex couple arises in the camp, the consequences are bone-chilling. Nicholas knows that he now must hide his true self more than ever as homosexuality is regarded as a crime against the nation and God, and men suspected of being gay are viciously humiliated.
S
et in 1981 during South Africa’s border conflict with communistbacked Angola, the film Moffie, which starts screening nationwide from 13 March, revolves around a conscript who must embark on compulsory military service. With a brilliant rendition of Sugarman by Rebekah Thompson (originally by Sixto Rodriguez whose work was a rallying point for South African counterculture and anti-apartheid in the 70s and 80s) you will most certainly be taken on an emotional journey. Brutal scenes accurately portray how boys were taught who to love and who to hate and what effect it had on their emotional state. Nicholas (Kai Luke
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Hello Pretoria • March 2020 • www.hellopretoria.co.za
When Nicholas meets a fellow conscript, Dylan Stassen (Ryan de Villiers) the film takes on a softer tone and there are but a few glimpses of their companionship. The hardships faced in the camp are at times difficult to watch and by the time they go to the border to face an even harsher reality, there is almost a visible sigh of relief. Tackling themes such as homophobia, racism and toxic masculinity, this film should serve as an eye-opener to all South Africans. The aim of this film is to start a conversation about prejudice and ignorance. We need to take a hard, long look at ourselves and what we teach our children. Moffie is the winner of The Mermaid Award (best LGBTQI-themed film) at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and was nominated for the Orizzonti Prize and the Queer Lion Award at the Venice International Film Festival. It received a six-minute-long standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival! This film can undoubtedly be a breakthrough in our preconceived notions about alternative lifestyle choices.
Words Carli Manser Images Supplied
Moffie is a harrowing look into the secret identity of a homosexual conscript in the 1980’s. In this drama award-winning director, Oliver Hermanus explores a diversity of themes that encapsulates a young, gay military conscript and his friend trying to remain invisible.
