Wonderlus is a South African movie from director Johan Cronje released in 2017. The film is an intimate portrait of a group of friends, reminiscing about the past and questioning the future while celebrating the present. The movie follows the story of a man named Sakkie (Edwin van der Walt) and a woman named Rachel (Mila Guy) who get married suddenly after a night of drinking. The couple decides to hold their wedding at an abandoned farm outside of Cape Town with their friends and family.
However, the celebrations don't go as smoothly as planned. As the night wears on, tensions rise and secrets come to light, threatening to tear the group of friends apart. The film explores the complexities of relationships and the dangers of secrets and hidden desires.
The standout performances in the film come from Mila Guy and Edwin van der Walt who both deliver raw and honest portrayals of their characters. Mila Guy's portrayal of Rachel is particularly captivating as she struggles with her own past trauma and the new responsibilities of marriage.
The cinematography in Wonderlus is also noteworthy, with sweeping shots of the South African countryside and detailed close-ups of the characters' faces. The use of natural lighting and color gives the film an authentic and intimate feel while also highlighting the beauty of the rural landscape.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the way it weaves together multiple storylines and characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Despite the large ensemble cast, each character is given enough space to fully develop their own individual arcs and contribute to the overall narrative of the film.
The film also tackles important social issues such as sexual assault and toxic masculinity, bringing them to the forefront of the story without sacrificing the emotional depth of the characters' relationships.
However, one potential criticism of Wonderlus is that the film can feel slow-paced at times, with long stretches of silence and introspection. While this quietness adds to the authentic and intimate nature of the film, it may ultimately turn off some viewers looking for a more fast-paced and action-packed story.
Overall, Wonderlus is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of relationships and the dangers of hiding our true selves from those around us. With its strong performances and compelling storylines, it is a must-watch for fans of independent cinema and those looking to explore the unique perspectives and voices of South African filmmakers.
