Riaad Moosa is sensational in his reserved and engaging performance of a young man at the crossroads of his life, with an equally outstanding performance from Joey Rasdien as his faithful buddy who guides him through his transformation. Vincent Ebrahim's passionate performance as the conservative and stubborn Ebrahim Kaif, who refuses to embrace change and a new world is remarkable, well supported by Denise Newman as the caring mother and supportive wife, with Royston Stoffels in top form as the Rafiq Kaif, the younger brother.
It's refreshing to see well-crafted local films like Skoonheid, Roepman and Material showcasing South African films and storytelling, and giving the world an opportunity to experience the unique and exceptionally diverse talent we have behind and in front of the camera.
Material offers ideal viewing for anyone who needs to embrace the differences that separate and foster pointless abhorrence. It's a fun, entertaining cinematic experience filled with plenty of laughs and some poignant moments. The rowdy applause at the end of the screening, and roaring laughter during the film, guarantees that this is one local film you don't have to avoid, but must definitely make a point of seeing.
Rating 5/5
