Fridae

Ok, this is very strictly for those arty-farty fags who love the
opera. George Bizet's classic opera Carmen from 1875 has
been moved from its original setting of Seville to a shantytown
in Cape Town, South Africa. The lyrics have also been translated
from French to Xhosa, making this a must-see to anyone who wants
to know what Xhosa sounds like. Anyone?

The story of obsessive love and its tragic consequences plays out
beautifully with the magnificent Pauline Malefane in the role of
Carmen, a strong and wilful woman who brings about the downfall
of a policeman (Andile Tshoni) who loves her too much.

First-time director Mark Donford-May makes fine use of the colorful
setting of Cape Town, with the drama unfolding nicely in pool halls,
courtyards, factories and the like. He also manages to get his actor-singers
to shine both in the vocal and acting departments. The mixing of
Bizet's classical score with the infectious rhythms of South Africa
results in some brilliant musical moments.

U-Carmen e-Khayelitsha won the Golden Bear at the Berlin
Film Festival last year. But it's not for everyone.