Lobola Man
| Lobola Man | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Directed by | Thabang Moleya |
| Written by | Katleho Ramaphakela |
| Produced by | Katleho Ramaphakela |
| Cinematography | Brad Devine |
| Edited by | Kabi Modiko |
| Music by | Samukelo Mahlalela |
Production companies |
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| Distributed by | Netflix |
Release date |
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Running time | 108 minutes |
| Country | South Africa |
| Languages | English Zulu |
Lobola Man is a 2024 South African romantic comedy film directed by Thabang Moleya and written by Katleho Ramaphakela. The film stars Lawrence Maleka, Sandile Mahlangu, Kwanele Mthethwa, Nimrod Nkosi, Thembsie Matu, Obed Baloyi, and Sello Ramolahloane.
The film delves into the intricacies of modern relationships and cultural traditions in South Africa, specifically focusing on the practice of lobola, a traditional bride price or dowry paid in cattle or money by a groom to the family of his bride.[1]
Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.
Synopsis
[edit]Lobola Man is the story of Ace Ngubeni, who is a professional lobola man. The task of negotiating the lobola, which is part of a traditional ritual, is done in South Africa where the husband's family negotiates to pay the price of the bride to her parents prior to marriage.
Known as an excellent negotiator, Ace is a womanizer and a man who has never believed in love due to being brought up in a household where his adulterous and irresponsible father took him to his many romances, thus making Ace believe that love and commitment were not possible.
Ace's perspective starts changing when Duke hires Ace, the professional lobola man, for his fiancée, Zandile, who happens to be an outspoken and opinionated woman. Duke, a very shy technology company CEO, has no idea that Ace had met Zandile previously.
Cast
[edit]Main
[edit]- Lawrence Maleka as Ace[2]
- Lehlohonolo Mokoi as Young Ace
- Kwanele Mthethwa as Zandile[3]
- Sandile Mahlangu as Duke
- Nimrod Nkosi as Mr. Zungu
Supporting characters
[edit]- Thembsie Matu as Aunt Miriam (Club Manager)[4]
- Obed Baloyi as Uncle Long John
- Themba Ndaba as Sam
- Tiisetso Masike as Young Sam
- Kaseran Pillay as Samoosa Vendor
Production
[edit]Filming
Filming took place in various locations in South Africa, primarily in Johannesburg and Soweto, capturing both the vibrant urban settings and traditional rural landscapes to reflect the clash of cultures in modern South Africa. Principal photography began in 2023, in South Africa.[5][6]
Release
[edit]Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.[7]
Reception
[edit]On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 83% of 7 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 4.2/10.[8][9]
Upon its release, Lobola Man received positive mixed, and negative reviews from critics.[10] Seyi Lasisi of Afrocritik described it as one of those films that are obsessively watched and swiftly forgotten, he gave the film 1.5/5 stars. The film was praised for its impressive streaming records making Netflix’s Global Top 10 list from July 8 to 14 2024.[11]
References
[edit]- ^ "Customary Marriages in South Africa: Understanding The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of 1998". SAHO.
- ^ Engelbrecht, Compiled by Leandra. "HELLO WEEKEND | Lawrence Maleka steals hearts in Lobola Man: A tale of love and negotiation". Life. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ Matlala, Keamogetswe. "Kwanele Mthethwa finally gets to play herself – a lover girl on comic Lobola Man". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ Mathebula, Nonhlanhla. "Thembsie Matu stars in her first Netflix film, 'Lobola Man'". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ "Lobola Man Filming Locations". 2024-07-12. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ Fecou, Louie (2024-08-02). "The South African Scenery and Customs Of 'Lobola Man' Set It Apart As A Rom-Com". Ready Steady Cut. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ Digital, Drum. "Netflix to release brand new romcom "Lobola Man" starring Lawrence Maleka". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ "Lobola Man". Rotten Tomatoes. Fandango Media. Retrieved August 24, 2024.
- ^ "Lobola Man - Movie Reviews | Rotten Tomatoes". www.rottentomatoes.com. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ Nonkonyane, Limpho (2024-07-15). "Internet users react to 'Lobola Man' movie". Bona Magazine. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
- ^ ""Lobola Man" Review: Thabang Moleya's Romcom is a Breeding Ground of Cliches - Afrocritik". 2024-07-26. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
External links
[edit]- Lobola Man at IMDb