Wild Is the Wind (2022) User Reviews

Good concept that dragged

[delondcosta27 · 5/10 · 7 November 2022]

While the plot in itself had interesting elements, the sum of the whole just was a major let down. The film needed to be trimmed by about 30 minutes to be considered decent; a lot of the side story arc was just not needed in order to progress the movie. Highlighting all the issues of the country was important in order to get context but drew out excess focus which detracted from the main story.

The soundtrack for the movie was okay-ish but there were definitely more than a couple scenes where the choice of song and the length it was played for was questionable. (eg. The raid on the club where people were being arrested in slow-mo). The dialogue was sub-par especially seen in interactions with the protagonist and his wife (also cheesy much?). The final act and resolution of the film was pretty bad, all things considered.

Overall, I would've still passed this off as a decent film had it not been too lengthy but unfortunately with the added length, it made the flaws just stand out all the more.

Whirlwind is in the Thorn Tree

[RedKidBytes · 7/10 · 29 October 2022]

Comes out of nowhere this South African drama with great actors which are not very well known in the US. Filmed in the traditional South African dialect, English viewers will need closed captions to understand the dialogues.

The engrossing crime drama is about searching for the responsible person(s) for the rape and murder of an18 years old white girl in a town, woven with racial distrust, inequality, injustice, and corruption.

The film starts with two police officers stopping a car for speeding. Unbeknownst to the police, the driver has a ducked-up woman in the trunk. They accept a cash bribe instead of searching the car. They later learn that a woman was burnt to death in the same car. This event changes the officer's played Mothusi Mogano's life. He occasionally sees her, directing him toward the clues.

It is solid entertainment and a great performance. A Must watch!

Compelling Film

[rtbradford · 7/10 · 28 October 2022]

The film offers an interesting view of a South African town and township and highlights the continuing inequality characterizing South Africa. The town very much has the feel of a southern town in the US in the 1960's where racial inequality was stark, racial attitudes and privileges were potent and very much in your face, even as many in society tried to move forward. The take of the criminals in the black community justifying their criminality as a reasonable response to racism was compelling and the tension between the white and black cops felt authentic. There are no purely good guys in the movie (though there are a couple of good, very noble women) and only one irredeemably evil guy. On the whole I thought it was a very good flick, if a bit melodramatic. It didn't offer the relatively happy ending I was expecting, but it was perhaps more realistic as a result. Innocent people are sometimes railroaded, police do knowingly charge innocent people if they're under duress to produce a suspect and in South Africa and in the South Africa, murders of whites still prompt more vigorous efforts by authorities to find the killers than murders of black people. It isn't a pleasant film and it doesn't say much positive about human nature, but it's a good movie.

south...

[ops-52535 · 6/10 · 22 November 2022]

African crime/narc/thriller movies that includes corrupt cop or maybe they say kopjes, spinning around in the transvaal region i guess, usually brings you into quite some realistic stuff, harsh and tough they act in this movie, that have the racial balance as a meter of issuance.

They are usually wellmade and thourough in their making, but this one slips a bit on, maybe not the main cast, the support and extras that fills the frame. It feels instructive behind the camera, and the lack of heartfelt acting shines through. It maybe amateur issues or just directional fits of action.

But youll get thrill for your money even if they come in a rand-omized order, so a small recommend from the grumpy old man.

Good all round Crime drama

[patherwill · 7/10 · 30 April 2023]

Direction and screenplay for this film from Netflix was very good with a fair mix of racism, corruption, crime and greed therown in. The cycle begins with the two protagonists a Supt and Sergeant stopping a car for speeding and being more interested in how much they were going to be offered to let the driver go they accept the bribe and let the car continue on its journey with its hidden cargo! The film is packed with various acts of violence and at times is more like "Gunfight at the OK corral". Stars Mothusi Magano and Frank Rautenbach. Good music through the movie , in English, Afrikaans and Twansbo (local language)

N/A

[d_penn · 5/10 · 1 November 2022]

The action scenes are stealthy, but the anticipation slowly fades into the background as the script gets a bit dense in highlighting other social issues. The racially fuelled opening fades into the background as the script explores other dire needs of the community who have fallen into poverty and are desperate to get themselves out of it. Medea wants to highlight the endless cycle that occurs in the area and how corruption is perceived. It is more so character-driven, as the police officers are polar opposites of one another. One is more level-headed, and the other is a hothead with a short fuse, which ends up being quite problematic.

*didn't show too much racial tension as opposed to other problems.

Strong premisse with good execution and minor flaws

[gabriel_sanchez · 7/10 · 1 May 2023]

A flawed protagonist needs to face the consequences of his choices to do what is right, the classic premise of a possibly good story. The premise of Wild is the Wind.

Vusi wants to move up in life, he wants to provide his family with better conditions, accepting any path to reach his goal. His desire. We know that Vusi needs to learn.

Follows law enforcement partners Vusi Matsoso and John Smit, senior investigators trying to make a living through active corruption. Their personal problems lead them to work together to improve their financial situation.

The cinematography is good in several moments. Wild is the Wind is a strong story, and the cinematographer tries to show that.

But nothing is perfect. The antagonist's lack of development makes his journey insignificant, inexplicable. So inexplicable that, in the end, the feeling is that we have lost some scene, some point in history that gives meaning to the things the antagonist and Vusy said, to the events. This lack of development also makes the antagonist disconnected from the main events, almost secondary. A pity, because the antagonist seems to be convincing.

Wild is the Wind is an engaging, slow drama that captivates with its premise and theme. With minimal flaws, this film is recommended if you want a compelling story about racism, injustice and redemption.

From here on out, I'll discuss important scenes that reveal about the film. Spoilers! Be warned.

The ending is dissonant, almost exploitative. An unnecessary ending, created just to make it bitter, to say "look how tense and strong this movie is, how heavy this movie is".

Vusi dies. Vusi had everything to be able to get back on top, redeem himself, but he dies, without reason, without purpose, without a clue. Even his wife says that she waits for him, but that he needs to be ready. Vusi's bow could redeem him, but his redemption cost his life with no use for his sacrifice. The ending could be different, more alive, Vusi accepting who she is, fighting but in a fair way.

I needed to release this outcome from within myself.

South African ego still alive and well

[jwpicton · 4/10 · 7 April 2024]

I grew up in South Africa so it's possible that my point of view is biased.

South Africa has managed to produce a few good productions, but unfortunately, this is not one of them. Almost every scene feels like a good effort for student film makers still learning their trade..... Not a professional production. The storyline has so much potential, only to to brought down by the typically over indulgent South African ego, an ego completely blind to it's own shortcomings. Believe me, I know, at one time I was blind to my own.

I know this is not a very evidence based review, it's more based on my personal experiences of growing up in South Africa. But what I will say, is that the level of film making does actually reflect the level of cultural development of the nation as a whole. In other words, South Africans may actually really like and enjoy this film, and even feel that it is a good film, on par with something like one of the Scandi Dramas for example. As a European, I just cannot see this, or abide by this. But I do accept the relative differences in perception.

For me, it was a difficult film to watch. I could not help but see the South African ego tripping over itself, one scene after the other. Such a pity.

Why did they not use a script based on a true story?!

[Erik_Surewaard · 6/10 · 29 October 2022]

South-Africa, a country that has seen a huge number of real crimes. So why on earth do we then get to see a movie with a completely fictive storyline?! A storyline that is also full of gaps and where the murderer is even shown in this first minute?! There is just zero suspense and almost anything can be predicted beforehand!

A huge pitty actually and a lost opportunity! Because the acting and scenes are just totally okay! They are actually okay to such a level, that if a good storyline was used, we would have a really great movie!

So why on earth did they chose to use such a crap storyline?! I have totally no clue!

In the current set-up, I can score this movie with no more than 5.7/10. And that score is completely supported by the acting and good scenery! Were it not for these two - and if I needed to rate this movie only on its storyline - it would have received a way lower score. So in the end, a rating of 6 stars on IMDb is hugely generous!

It Was Ok But It Bored Me All The Way Trough!

[silicontourist · 3/10 · 21 February 2024]

This film had a clever story and the actors (all unknown to me) as I just don't watch South African films or television) were mostly good at their job. But for me I found neither of the aforementioned could do anything for this dragged out, overlong, lacklustre and unexciting thriller; that wasn't for me! The racism stood out clearly from both the black and white people of the town, though I couldn't quite put a date to the timescale. I don;t suppose the corruption of the police forces of SA has changed any differently that at the time of apartheid so, there was nothing to unveil/reveal throughout the entire depressing film run.

I give it a 3 solely for the majority of good acting in the dark dreariness.that it made me feel.

total surprise

[d-papadakis · 9/10 · 9 November 2022]

Netflix does a good job and suggesting movies to watch based on your rating. Sometimes they hit it, sometimes not. This one was killer.

The story was total allegory, based on a true or not, but the allegory is true.

Corruption and envy, and "keep the man down". It is presented in a subtle and measured story (good writing and directing), the actors are spot on, particularly the one who plays the black detective, there is a scene when he is in a car lamenting, wow.

The soundtrack is interesting, the words to the selected songs are appropriate, but sometimes the mood the music sets doesn't match the scene, but overall, the soundtrack is wonderful, especially "Oh My Lord".

This movie has a lot of heart, and I am glad I watched it.

Great plot twist with amazing cinematography

[chwpayne · 9/10 · 5 March 2023]

The only reason for the 1 star short is the scoring. Being a South African growing up pre and pos apartheid and a lover of music. There were alot more controversial and fitting songs released. However knowing the industry and copyright issues I get it. Do look forward to seeing more from Fabian. The cinematography was great. The story line is relevant and relatable. Think alot of these other reviews would've had a different perspective if it was some holiwood greats starring in it. But this has Oscar potential written all over it. Loved the story line. Would love to do the scoring for his next movie.

A solid crime drama set in a divided community

[Tweekums · 8/10 · 17 November 2022]

As this South African film opens we see police officer Vusi Matsoso accepting a bribe from a speeding motorist. Afterwards he splits the money with his partner, John Smit. As the driver pulls away we see he has a young woman trussed up in the boot of his car. Three years later Matsoso and Smit are more corrupt; they raid a drug den, killing the criminals and taking their drugs to sell to local criminals. Meanwhile there is the murder of another young woman, this time she is an Afrikaner. Racial tensions flare when suspicions fall on her black boyfriend. The events that follow will test Matsoso and Smit's friendship; will they do the right thing or take the easy options?

I thought this was a really solid crime drama. It started really well. We know from the opening scene that our protagonists are corrupt, the only question is whether their corruption is taking bribes for minor offences and robbing drug dealers or whether they will be willing to ruin innocent lives for their own benefit. The story deals with the racial tensions that are inevitably still present in South Africa without feeling as if it is a lecture. The main strength of the film is its acting and direction. Mothusi Magano and Frank Rautenbach really impress as Matsoso and Smit and even those in secondary roles are good. Fabian Medea does a great job directing. The South African landscape adds a lot to the atmosphere of the film; the rugged veldt gives the film the feel of a western at times. While the identity of the man who killed the Afrikaner girl is unlikely to surprise anybody there are a few other moments that do come as a surprise, one time tragically so. Overall I'd definitely recommend this to fans of crime drama looking for something set outside North America or Europe. It would be nice to see more great drama coming out of Africa.

It must be noted that although Netflix suggests this is an English language film most of the dialogue is in subtitled Afrikaans; I didn't find that to be a problem but others might want to be aware before watching.

Intense and Absorbing

[clayandersonjohnson · 10/10 · 30 October 2022]

This is one of the most gripping and intense films I have ever seen. It is well written, well acted and directed with stunning locations.

It is an extremely brutal portrayal of two corrupt police officers in South Africa whose neglect of duty and criminal behavior come back to haunt them.

An innocent man who is illiterate is manipulated into signing an Admission of Guilt to the abduction and murder of a young woman believing he is only requesting a review by a magistrate. He is taken to trial although his story is valid and there is no actual physical evidence against him.

This brings life destroying consequences upon the entire community.

LETHAL WEAPON meets TRAINING DAY

[searchanddestroy-1 · 8/10 · 14 November 2022]

Maybe not entirely crime film, but an unusual scheme in this South African movie where you have no really lead character, no hero, only characters for whom you wonder what feeling you can have. It is question of a serial killer intrigue mixed up with a rogue cops element. You have convincing performances and situations too. It is however a bit slow, but again, this is a worth watching movie where you can also watch as a buddy movie, a White and Black cop working together as a team, without being entirely LETHAL WEAPON either. It is of course question of racial matters in this South African feature; this explains the buddy scheme with two different races characters. A very short tribute to QT's RESERVOIR DOGS in the scene of the serial killer dancing around the car trunk with a gasoline can; remember Michael Madsen sequence dancing besides the tortured cop. Good ending.

Must watch!!!

[emmelize · 8/10 · 4 November 2022]

Personally one of my favourite RSA true crime films - Goes over all the harsh realities that our country has to face with however I find the actual cases were not covered in depth. Ending was abit disappointing didn't like now they left it on almost a cliffhanger like if Vusi ever got the recognition for finding William or if he and his wife ever did get to move to Joburg. Was Avery odd film but really loved the cinematics and plot it was interesting but could have been more filled. Love how the film put some of us in an uncomfortable position with putting the viewer in a position of true South African horror as if we were there with them to experience all the struggles and difficulties.

Storytelling at its best

[boateng_n · 10/10 · 31 October 2022]

Wild is the Wind delivers on the emotional rollercoaster of a criminal thriller. Who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? It's blurry because it's set in a harsh reality of socio-cultural complexity in South Africa. The ugliness of police brutality and racism are confronted head on. Some white South Africans are tired of the narrative and wish we would stop talking about it. Those people would have a difficult time with this film. But kudos to the geniuses behind this film to remind us of the ills in the society that still exists. But it's not a one sided story to paint one demographic as the bad guys. It shows greed, drug dealing criminality and violence of the black community as well. The movie is not meant to make you feel good. It's tragedy upon tragedy but pulls at the heart strings. The characters are compelling. We feel for them. The cinematography is a cherry on top. Beautiful landscape, an retro vibe and captivating low light scenes. Deserving of the Oscars! Bravo.

So glad I watched this movie

[Spencercollins · 10/10 · 4 November 2022]

I watched this movie purely based on the Netflix teaser on a bored Friday night literally just because I couldn't be bothered to keep searching. I was totally hooked from the start. I personally haven't heard of any of the actors before so was just expecting something to pass the time. Boy was I wrong. This movie will capture your full attention from start to finish. The tension builds at just the right pace and the two leads show great acting ability keeping you on the edge of your seat as you meander your way through their separate agendas and try to work out each characters end goal. I won't say no more. Just do what I did, press play and I promise you will not be disappointed.

Wild is the Wind

[melissamedea · 10/10 · 30 October 2022]

This movie was very intriguing from the onset. It kept you captivated, the subplots kept you wanting more. The name in itself captivated how wild life can be as exhibit in the film. The movie had a realistic look at society and real issues being faced with diversity. The two Corrupt Cops essentially are good people but faced with challenging decisions and end up making choices that affects the whole community. You see Love, Corruption, thriller, fear, intelligence, mystery contained ìn this Film. There are religious undertones especially listening to the songs throughout the film. Best Film of year.

The Rating for this film is not correct

[projectcreation · 8/10 · 10 November 2022]

I am a classic film lover who watches most academy award movies. But later now, I started to watch film without looking the ratings. This is because I am a lover of dopamine rush. So I want to feel dopamine rush and that's why I watch movies freely without looking into any critics about the film This 'Wild is the wind' director hardworked at its most for this film that i can feel them in each shot. For acting, we can really feel both the characters as real world police. An example for this is their movements. It's exactly like as they are trained. The two major problems were. The opening title and the following song doesn't suit the plot as we were partially registered into the hero for the first 10 minutes. Opening title should be after some establishments. Another mistake that would be disliked by critics is that the use of dreams. The unnecessary graphics were used to show dreams. If that were avoided, I think this film will definitely get Oscar 2023. This film would surely be nominated for oscar and rest of it is in the hands of voters.

Storytelling and Screenplay at its best.

[San89700 · 10/10 · 8 November 2022]

To begin with, I am seriously shocked to see a rating of just 5.4 on imdb for this movie. Something is terribly wrong here! Come on humans let us all watch this movie and increase it's ratings which it absolutely deserves. My rating is a solid 10/10.

The way the movie begins and the way it flows till the end is just pure masterclass.

Hats off to the director, the actors and the entire crew. Well done team.

That music and those soft lines of words is so beautiful to the soul. The Screenplay and every shot is just so pleasing to the eyes. All I can say is watch it to believe it!

Keep bringing such quality content Netflix and you will be on top of all others. Thank you Netflix.

Thrilling, tense, spectacular, dark, an effective first feature

[norbert-plan-618-715813 · 9/10 · 25 December 2022]

A beautiful product of South Africa that mixes police investigation, racism, corruption to produce a plot under high tension. Our two cops, heroes of our plot, know how to adapt to reality when the bills are hard to pay, and find themselves investigating the death of a young white girl, victim of a serial killer, but they don't know it. And the fact that the girl's lover is black will produce high tensions. The film skillfully maintains the interactions between the professional and personal of our two heroes. And the script skillfully works the relationship of our two cops, friends, one being white, the other being black: this story will challenge the strength of their friendship.

The natural settings are superb. The actors are great. Mothusi Manano in particular is a real eye-catcher in each of his appearances. The plot is rich and the scenario maintains the spectator under permanent tension. The epilogue is in line with the film, violent, atmospheric and gives a nihilistic touch at the limit of the supernatural which finally does not denature what preceded.

After this very successful first try, let's hope that Fabian Medea does not end up directing a superhero movie with men in super-slips.

Unsatisfied

[roderickwaynehendricks · 21 January 2024]

On 2/01/2024 we visited wild wind as day visitors. We were a group of more or less 25 people. Our dissatisfaction started at the gate. We had 5 children ranginging between 2 and 5 years old. They all paid different prices ranging from R45 to R95. We were shocked about this. The ladies at the gate were showing bad attitude towards us. It also seemed as if they had a hectic night before. The pools on that day were green and when I questioned them about 8t I was told it is because of the day before which was a very 0oor excuse. I will never ever go to this place again 9r even recommend it to other people Sorry wild wind.