A Dry White Season

A Dry White Season is a powerful and thought-provoking drama set against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa. Released in 1989 and directed by Euzhan Palcy, the film stars Donald Sutherland as Ben du Toit, a white South African living a comfortable life in the suburbs of Johannesburg with his family.

Ben is initially oblivious to the injustices and atrocities committed by the ruling white minority against the black majority, including his own domestic worker, Gordon (Winston Ntshona), and his son's black friend Jonathan (Thapelo Mokoena). However, after Jonathan is arrested and killed by the police under suspicious circumstances, Ben begins to question the system that has allowed such violence and discrimination to flourish.

His search for answers leads him to lawyer Ian McKenzie (Marlon Brando), who is defending several black activists accused of terrorism. Ian's assistant Melanie (Susan Sarandon) helps Ben navigate the complex legal system and introduces him to members of the underground resistance.

As Ben becomes more involved in the struggle for justice, he risks not only his own safety but also the safety of his family. He discovers the extent of the government's brutality and corruption, including the use of torture and secret police, and eventually must confront his own complicity in the system of oppression.

Donald Sutherland delivers a stunning performance as Ben, portraying the character's gradual awakening to the realities of apartheid with nuance and vulnerability. The supporting cast is also impressive, with Zakes Mokae shining as Jonathan's father and Janet Suzman delivering a chilling portrayal of Ben's racist and unrepentant brother-in-law.

The film's themes of racial inequality, political corruption, and individual responsibility resonate strongly today, and its depiction of South Africa under apartheid is both historically accurate and emotionally gut-wrenching. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with stark and haunting images of Johannesburg's slums and townships.

A Dry White Season is a must-see for anyone interested in social justice, human rights, and the power of individual action in the face of systemic injustice. Its message of hope and perseverance is timeless and universal.