U-Carmen Ekhayelitsha

South Africa 2005, 120 minutes
Dir. Mark Dornford-May
In Xhosa with English subtitles
Rating: [M]
Genres: Foreign Cinema, Drama / Musical

Feat. Pauline Malefane

Aroview: An inspired contemporary rendition of George Bizet's classic opera, with events relocated to the rich cultural hotbed of modern day South Africa.

Translated into the language of Xhosa, Carmen works in a cigarette factory in Cape Town, while Escamillo has to kill an ox in a ritual slaughter. While rough hewn in places, the film’s earthy, documentary feel and palpable energy make this a vital and memorable version of the story.

NZ International Film Festival 2005