Asinamali

Asinamali is an intense drama from 2017 that traces the intricate narratives of liberation, repression, identity, and survival in South Africa. The movie, directed by Mbongeni Ngema who also stars in the film, resonates a deep and stirring harmony of painful history, resilient spirit, and unyielding hope among South African individuals during, and after, the era of apartheid.

Asinamali commences its narrative in the volatile backdrop of an unspecified South African prison, where the main character named Comrade Washington, a former political activist turned scholar, aims to stage a musical with a group of inmate performers. His mission reflects South Africa's oftentimes brutal past and its enduring pursuit of racial equality, social justice, and political autonomy after decades of legalized racial segregation and profound exploitation.

Mbongeni Ngema's portrayal of Comrade Washington is as profoundly moving as it is compelling, displaying a tremendous sense of dignity and resolve amid daunting circumstances. In this setting, Washington utilizes theatre, and particularly music, as a tool of resilience, a means of emancipation, and a way of challenging the status quo. This storyline is underscored not only by a poignant narrative but also by a vibrant soundtrack that underpins the country's unique cultural and musical heritage.

The supporting cast, including Danica Jones and Boitumelo Shisana, enhance the narrative by bringing authenticity and depth to their roles. Their performances vividly illustrate the experiences of individuals who, despite their personal struggles and political turmoil, manage to find hope and resilience in music and fraternal solidarity. The ensemble's performances convincingly and powerfully evoke the human capacity for resilience and resistance in the face of hardship and desperation.

The film's title, 'Asinamali', meaning 'we have no money', is also the name of the musical play performed by the inmates in the narrative. This title eloquently encapsulates the socio-political reality of South Africa, the deprivations of its people, and the struggle against the forces of oppression and inequality. Despite the literal translation, it also demonstrates the rich spirit of Idliso - the South African idea that the nation's wealth lies in its people and their sense of unity and resilience.

Asinamali employs a non-linear narrative structure which vastly contributes to the film's multi-dimensional exploration of its themes. Through the experiences of the inmates and the lens of theatre/music, the movie switches between past and present, offering a kaleidoscopic view of South Africa’s tumultuous history. This approach also intensifies the dramatic tension and emotional impact encapsulated in the triad of music, struggle, and liberation.

The film also reflects on how art can be a powerful medium in addressing trauma, providing hope and becoming a vehicle for change. Ngema explores how theatre and music are not just mediums for entertainment but can become effective tools for socio-political struggle, especially in a marginalized, repressed community. Asinamali takes the audience on a journey of transformation through music and theatre, illustrating the potential of arts to blend reality and fiction, merging personal and political, individual and collective, to give powerful expressions of resilience and strength.

Director Ngema also pays close attention to the visual aesthetics, combining imagery and music to create sequences that are emotionally stirring, with their historical and socio-political undertones. The cinematography is significant, capturing the stark contrasts between the desolation and confinement of the prison and the vitality and vibrancy of the township life, using these visuals to deepen the film's themes.

Asinamali, a film which blends music, history, politics and profound human experience, effectively resonates with South Africa's spirit of endurance and hope amid adversity. The film's strong performances, remarkable blend of music, and commanding narrative ensures that this tragic yet uplifting tale leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

The bravado and raw emotion shown in Asinamali gives voice to the stories of those whose narratives were often marginalized or silenced. It brilliantly orchestrates the use of art as a cathartic and transformative process, making this film not only a unique piece of cinema but also a poignant lesson in history, socio-political struggles, and survival. With the history of South Africa serving as the film's backdrop, Asinamali emerges as a quintessential viewing for those seeking an understanding of South Africa's complex past and the enduring strength of its people.