3 October 2017
7 brilliant SA short films to binge-watch
We love short form, snackable content that you can watch almost anywhere. On the bus, in the queue at SARS, at work (we won’t tell). The short film holds a special kind of appeal – you go on a complete emotional journey that’s as satisfying as you’d get from a full-length feature film, all in the space of time it would take to watch a single episode of a series.
Showmax celebrates the skill, talent and gruelling work that go into short films by bringing you seven brilliant examples of the form, all exploring issues and situations that are unique to our homeland. Here are seven brilliant South African short films you should be watching.
1. The Initiate
Rethabile finds out just before her Sotho coming-of-age ceremony that she is pregnant, and she has to do whatever she can to keep the secret from her controlling father. Watch now »
2. The Fall of Ganesh
A young Indian woman wants to host a Diwali dinner to celebrate her engagement – but her family doesn’t approve. This leads to violent conflict, and the sparks fly… Watch now »
3. A Cup of Sugar
This short film is about Dipuo, new to the community, and her visit from her neighbour Martha, a divorced former housewife, who needs to borrow a cup of sugar. Watch now »
4. The Virgin Vegan
Thato returns from studies overseas with a new eating lifestyle: she’s a vegan! But her friends and family in Polokwane don’t quite understand, in this hilarious short comedy film. Watch now »
5. Moseto
Years after her mother was killed as a witch, Fhulufhelo returns as an unknown woman to plot her revenge against the killers in this edge-of-your seat thriller. Watch now »
6. Unomalanga and the Witch
A friendship between a woman new in town and a woman scorned as a witch turns into something much deeper as they grow closer in this riveting drama. Watch now »
7. The Groom’s Price
Meme wants her boyfriend of nine years to propose! But he can’t afford the lobola yet, so she turns the tables and decides to pay a Groom’s Price for him! Watch now »
Youngins S2, now on Showmax
Soft Life, now streaming on Showmax
More Mzansi gold
Outopsie S1-3
Senior forensic pathologist Dr Hestelle van Staden reveals what really happens behind closed doors in captivating cases where forensic pathology played a central role.
Made in South Africa
Great African Crimes with Mandy Wiener (2024)
This one-off special explores three dramatic cases that left South Africa stunned: Daisy de Melker, the so-called Sea Cottage incident, and the Krugersdorp bank robbery.
Made in South Africa
Zarelda de Bruin on her breakout debut role in Spooksoeker
The 17-year-old Zarelda de Bruin plays Melissa in the Showmax Original Spooksoeker, now available to stream. Catch new episodes every Thursday.
Made in South Africa
9 reasons that 2024 was the best year yet for local TV
Stream the best local content on Showmax in 2024, featuring iEmmy winners, record-breaking documentaries, SAFTA winners, and globally acclaimed hits.
Made in South Africa