Keeping Up with the Kandasamys (2017) YTS

Reviewed by R T 1 / 10

While trawling through the sundry of the audience

While trawling through the sundry of the audience 'highly-rated' films, I was delighted to come across this local South-African production that scored high across the board. After viewing it, I was left wondering just who exactly had given such an undeserving film such high acclaim? Surely these ratings were from the hands of the production/crew on this film? The films premise is a murder of laboured cliches hammed up by quirky characters who don't so much arc as assume a rather flaccid existence. The real tragedy is that where this film finds itself with the unique opportunity to shine a light on the very vibrant and charismatic Durban-Indian community, it instead hides behind its own novelty and hopes the bad jokes will save the day. The love story lacks chemistry, the production is shoddy, and there stink of predictability right from the start that, predictably, never leaves. While this may seem like a harsh review, I was simply compelled to address the balance so that serious film lovers who may use these review/rating sites to inform their decision do not waste their time as I did. And, FYI, there is a sequel but apparently, it is not as good as this first one!

Reviewed by R T 4 / 10

It's not a great film, but a good

It's not a great film, but a good premise on which to build. We have the stories, the talent and, as far as I am concerned, a unique sense of humour that still needs to be captured on film. Judging from the opening weekend success of Keeping up with the Kandasamys (R1.6 million), the South African public agrees. The good: It has a killer soundtrack, a couple of cool shots of Durban (an underutilised location), a subtle colour treatment, some lekker local vernacular and a wonderful Bollywood-style dance routine at the end. It is touted as a love story and as a rivalry between the two moms, but, in the end, it deals with family and class with surprising depth (for a rom com). I especially enjoyed the bromance between the two dads. What stood out most, though, was the snapshot it gives you of Indian life, culture and family values in Chatsworth, Durban. I'll gladly take another helping of that. The bad: Unfortunately, an otherwise promising script was haltered by the acting, which was a bit staccato - sometimes forced, and other times over the top. Actors need to be cast for their talent, and not their looks. There were some beautifully styled scenes (the washing line in the backyard, the yellow wall where the moms chat), but, overall, the filming and styling were mediocre. I've said this before: the standard of cinematography and art direction in South Africa is exceptionally high. There's no excuse for bland filmmaking. The more promising parts (script, soundtrack, the more experienced actors) did not add up to a great film, and that is the responsibility of the director. Keeping up with the Kandasamys lacked clear direction. In summary, it is worthwhile seeing for the familiarity of the lingo, the setting and the snapshot of Chatsworth. Don't expect too much, though.

Reviewed by R T 10 / 10

Fantastic. Cant wait to watch the sequel ;-)

Keeping Up with the Kandasamys

2017

Action / Comedy

Keeping Up with the Kandasamys

2017

Action / Comedy

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Movie Reviews

While trawling through the sundry of the audience

It's not a great film, but a good

Fantastic. Cant wait to watch the sequel ;-)

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