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TSOTSI Send This Review to a Friend
A novel by Athol Fugard has inspired an engrossing and penetrating film written and directed by Gavin Hood. “Tsotsi,” set in South Africa, is slang for thug, which is exactly what the 19-year-old of the title is, living up to his name as he collaborates with an assortment of thieving buddies in Johannesburg. But before the film is over he will have redeemed himself.
Actor Presley Chweneyagae is appealing as the young man with a background of a life of deprivation that has led him to become angry at the world. One night, when he attempts a random carjacking, his life begins to change. There is a baby in the car, and suddenly Tsotsi is faced with the problem of what to do with it.
Terry Pheto is also excellent as Miriam, whom Tsotsi approaches in hope she will take care of the infant. She has a child of her own and is another victim of poverty and her role and performance adds a further face of humanity to this film that juxtaposes violence and the potential for good.
Hood develops the film with skill and compassion, and takes the audience on a memorable journey exploring Tsotsi’s impulses and the possibility of his turning into a decent human being despite the odds. The writer-director works up unnerving suspense when Tsotsi faces danger for finally attempting to do the right thing. A Miramax Films release.
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