Cold Harbour is a South African thriller that was released in 2013. Directed by Carey McKenzie, it stars Tony Kgoroge as a police detective named Sizwe Miya who is investigating a murder case. Fana Mokoena plays his partner, Brian Epkeen, and Nan Yu portrays a Chinese woman named Little Happiness who they suspect might be involved in the crime.
The film is set in Cape Town, where violent crime is rampant and law enforcement is struggling to keep up. Brian is a captain in the police force and is tasked with investigating a series of murders of young women in the area. Sizwe, his partner, is a former anti-apartheid activist who is haunted by the atrocities he witnessed during that time. The two detectives have very different approaches to their work - Brian is brash and forceful, while Sizwe is more measured and introspective.
The investigation leads the two detectives to a ship in the harbor, where they discover a group of illegal immigrants who are being smuggled into the country. They also meet Little Happiness, who has been brought to Cape Town by a Chinese gang to work as a prostitute. Brian becomes convinced that she is involved in the murders, and Sizwe becomes fascinated by her and begins to find himself drawn to her plight.
As the investigation progresses, the detectives uncover a web of corruption and violence that reaches into the highest levels of the government. They encounter resistance from their superiors and find themselves in danger as they get closer to the truth. Along the way, they also confront their own demons and question the morality of their work.
One of the strengths of Cold Harbour is its vivid portrayal of the city of Cape Town. The film presents a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the city, including the poverty, racism, and violence that are all too common there. The cinematography is excellent, capturing both the beauty and the ugliness of the city.
The acting in the film is also top-notch. Tony Kgoroge gives a standout performance as Sizwe, portraying a complex character with depth and nuance. Fana Mokoena is also excellent as the brash and impulsive Brian. Nan Yu's portrayal of Little Happiness is compelling, and she brings a sense of vulnerability and pathos to the character.
The film's pacing is slow and deliberate, which may not appeal to all viewers. However, the slow pace allows for the characters to be fully developed and for the tension to build gradually. The climactic scene is intense and satisfying, and the film ends on a note of ambiguity that leaves the viewer thinking.
In conclusion, Cold Harbour is a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that is well worth watching. The film provides an excellent portrayal of life in Cape Town and features strong performances from its cast. The slow pace of the film may not appeal to all viewers, but those who are willing to invest the time will be rewarded with a satisfying and complex story.
