Lobola Man

Lobola Man
Directed byThabang Moleya
Written byKatleho Ramaphakela
Produced byKatleho Ramaphakela
CinematographyBrad Devine
Edited byKabi Modiko
Music bySamukelo Mahlalela
Production
companies
  • Burnt Onion Production
  • Thabang Moleya Film
Distributed byNetflix
Release date
  • 12 July 2024 (2024-07-12)
Running time
108 minutes
CountrySouth Africa
LanguagesEnglish
Zulu

Lobola Man is a 2024 South African romantic comedy film directed by Thabang Moleya and written by Katleho Ramaphakela. The film stars Lawrence Maleka, Sandile Mahlangu, Kwanele Mthethwa, Nimrod Nkosi, Thembsie Matu, Obed Baloyi, and Sello Ramolahloane.

The film explores modern relationships and cultural traditions in South Africa, with a focus on lobola, a traditional form of bride wealth paid by a groom or his family to the family of the bride.

Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.

Synopsis

Ace Ngubeni, a lobolo negotiator who helps men negotiate the bride price with their in‑laws. Ace is also a womanizer who does not believe in love or commitment. Ace's views are shaped by his childhood, when his father, who had affairs outside marriage involved Ace in those affairs.

Aces outlook begins to change when Duke Maseko, a technology company CEO hires Ace to negotiate the lobola for Dukes fiancée, Zandile. Zandile is outspoken and opinionated. Ace has already met Zandile before Duke introduces them. Aces personal connection with Zandile complicates the negotiation. Challenges Aces views, about love and relationships.

Cast

Main

Supporting characters

Production

Filming

Filming took place entirely in South Africa, primarily in Johannesburg and Soweto. Principal photography took place throughout 2023.

Release

Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.

Reception

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 83% of 7 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 4.2/10.

Upon its release, Lobola Man received mixed reviews from critics. Seyi Lasisi of Afrocritik described the film as "one of those films that are obsessively watched and swiftly forgotten" and gave it a rating of 1.8/5 rating.

References

  1. ↑ "Customary Marriages in South Africa: Understanding The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of 1998". SAHO.
  2. ↑ Engelbrecht, Compiled by Leandra. "HELLO WEEKEND | Lawrence Maleka steals hearts in Lobola Man: A tale of love and negotiation". Life. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  3. ↑ Matlala, Keamogetswe. "Kwanele Mthethwa finally gets to play herself – a lover girl on comic Lobola Man". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  4. ↑ Mathebula, Nonhlanhla. "Thembsie Matu stars in her first Netflix film, 'Lobola Man'". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  5. ↑ "Lobola Man Filming Locations". 2024-07-12. Archived from the original on December 26, 2024. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  6. ↑ Fecou, Louie (2024-08-02). "The South African Scenery and Customs Of 'Lobola Man' Set It Apart As A Rom-Com". Ready Steady Cut. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  7. ↑ Digital, Drum. "Netflix to release brand new romcom "Lobola Man" starring Lawrence Maleka". Drum. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  8. ↑ "Lobola Man - Movie Reviews | Rotten Tomatoes". www.rottentomatoes.com. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  9. ↑ Nonkonyane, Limpho (2024-07-15). "Internet users react to 'Lobola Man' movie". Bona Magazine. Retrieved 2024-09-16.
  10. ↑ ""Lobola Man" Review: Thabang Moleya's Romcom is a Breeding Ground of Cliches - Afrocritik". 2024-07-26. Retrieved 2024-09-16.