The world premiere for 8 from Harold Hölscher played to a sold-out screening July 20th, 2019 at Fantasia International Film Festival. South African horror movies steeped in folklore. Tshamano Sebe’s Lazarus dares to ask the question; what would you do to reunite with someone you’ve lost?

Tshamano Sebe plays Lazarus and starred in Stokvel Tv series

South African Movies

This is a film that will stick with you. It’s very slow in some parts and not all the performances are as loose as I’m used to but it’s definitely a film that’s worth watching. For example, it’s young star Keita Luna comes across as the most polite and mild-mannered entity I’ve seen in a while. This is despite her circumstances, surroundings, and influences. Her character Mary is forced to stay with her uncle and aunt after her parent’s untimely demise. The conflict within the household is so subtle that the dynamic is what you need to keep an eye on. If you frequent National Geographic documentaries, however, it’s possible you’ll have caught a glimpse of her in some of the wildlife behind the scenes inserts. It’s probably where she got her inner calm from.

Chris April starred in Black Sails TV series and here portrays Obara. Directed by Harold Hölscher.

Lazarus appears within the beautiful landscapes, and scenic camera angles amidst a voiceover on par with that of 1992’s Candyman with Tony Todd. His smooth tones talk of a demon who is unable to be tricked and one that has forced him into a lifetime under the thumb of Utuli, a demon he made a pact with. Feeding on human souls, Utuli wants nothing more than its next meal. Lazarus arrives on the homestead and infiltrates the family with what the viewer knows is evil intentions, yet Mary and her uncle are none the wiser.

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Inge Beckmann & Garth Breytenbach

The star power of Inge Beckmann as Sarah plays a pivotal part in the film. Her performance also a dialed back affair was something I struggled with. This film is definitely a talking point for any who’ve seen it and I won’t be divulging any spoilers.

Beckmann’s performance is wonderful here as the contrasting force of knowing something is off. Still, I can’t wait for this film to get a wider release so that I can wrangle with the ending more thoroughly.

Fans of 2005’s The Triangle will recognize Garth Breytenbach. Here he plays the detached yet caring William. His desire to create a better life leaves him with blinders on. There are certainly some details and clues within his surroundings he surely should not have missed.

Finally, 8 is an excellent entry to folklore and fable type horror I am very fond of. As a debut directorial feature film from Harold Hölscher, his ability to take an idea about death and souls and where they go in the afterlife is definitely well conceptualized. Here’s hoping he unleashes a little more next time.

I give 8

3 out of 5

3 Skulls out of 5

VIDEO: For the full trailer on YouTube, here’s the link

The movie is as yet unreleased, but keep an eye on the Facebook Page for further information.