So, ESA got this sweet invite from the Joburg Film Festival to check out a movie called ‘The Drop,’ and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster of emotions!
The film was all about testing friendships, and man, does it hit the nail on the head with love, greed, relief, and shock. You’ll be laughing one minute and contemplating the power of money the next. Plus, you’ll learn that crime really doesn’t pay (unless you’re in the government, am I right?).
Director Jonathan Parkinson explained that the whole movie happens in just one place, inspired by a flick called ‘Shallow Grave.’ It’s crazy how introducing money into an ordinary situation can make things go sideways, right?
Parkinson didn’t even use a casting director, opting to meet the cast himself. Talk about hands-on!
Filming in the heart of Maboneng, Johannesburg, was like walking a tightrope between beauty and danger. Seriously, that place is a maze of contradictions. It’s beautiful and dangerous at the same time.
So, the movie kicks off with two buddies, Tom and Vongani, played by Garion Dowds and Siyabonga Xaba, who’ve been tight since forever. They’re looking for a roommate, and enter the super-charismatic Loretta, played by Didintle Khunou.
Things get wild when there’s a shootout right outside their apartment. And guess what? Instead of ducking for cover, Tom starts filming the whole thing on his phone. Priorities, right?
Then, this dude in all black storms into their apartment with a gun and a bag of cash. Classic, right? But when his buddies ditch him in the runaway car downstairs, the gunman is left holding the bag full of stolen cash…and a bunch of hostages.
Oh, and keep an eye out for Detective Mamele, played by Bonko Khoza. Dude steals the show at the end.
And don’t even get me started on Priscilla, the trauma counsellor who’s a bit…unconventional. Let’s just say, her love life takes an unexpected turn.
Spoiler alert: Love conquers all in the end. Trust me, it’s a wild ride you won’t want to miss!
Main image: Joburg Film Festival
