Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers is a delightful South African comedy film released in 2017. The film, directed by Maynard Kraak, stars the charismatic Dalin Oliver in the lead role, with supporting performances by the talented Neels van Jaarsveld and Lise Slabber that add depth to the plot. The movie highlights the stunning landscapes of South Africa while presenting the audience with evocative humor, unforgettable characters, and intricate plot twists.

The film showcases Dalin Oliver, a well-known radio presenter and stand-up comedian, in the role of Lonnie Cabot, a down-on-his-luck rugby coach in a small South African town. He’s desperate to make his mark in the sport but continually stumbles upon misfortune. Things take a surprising turn when he comes across a document that bears the potential to change his life. What initially appears to be a stroke of luck soon turns into an adventurous chaos with humor painted all over it.

Neels van Jaarsveld plays the role of Brian McLean, Lonnie’s adversary and rival who always appears in stark contrast to him, exacerbating his failures. He’s a local bigwig who is as shrewd as he is determined. Lise Slabber, best known for her role in the television series 'Black Sails,' puts on an amazing performance as Cindy, whose character adds an interesting dynamic to the storyline.

Our hapless protagonist's apparent stroke of serendipity soon spirals into a comedy of errors as Lonnie grapples with the dire implications of his find. It whisks him off on a thrilling adventure marked by an unpredictable narrative interspersed with unique situations and surprises around every corner. All through, the viewers are treated to hearty laughs, poignant moments, and edge-of-the-seat anticipation.

Finders Keepers is not just a comedy; it offers a satirical commentary on society as a whole, touching upon deeper issues. It wonderfully paints the small-town life against a much broader canvas of societal norms, rivalries, relationships, ambitions, and dreams. The film aesthetically presents the cultural fabric of South Africa with subtle humor and wit that transcends regional boundaries, making it appealing to an international audience.

What makes Finders Keepers a standout is its carefully woven tapestry of humor that is smart, witty, and slapstick all at once, anchored by strong performances from the cast. Dalin Oliver shines as the lovable protagonist, effortlessly eliciting giggles and chuckles with his terrific comic timing and nuanced portrayal of Lonnie. Neels van Jaarsveld as the slippery adversary complements him perfectly with his arresting screen presence. Their rivalry brings out moments of hilarity, underlying tension, and unexpected collaboration, driving the plot forward.

Lise Slabber adds another dimension to the narrative. Her portrayal of Cindy adds layers of complexity and intrigue, bringing in an element of romance and deep connection. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, making their screen presence enjoyable. The rest of the ensemble cast, including noteworthy South African actors, lend credibility to the canvas, blending coherently into the storyline, and adding momentum.

The script, penned by Maynard Kraak and Strini Pillai, is sharply written, with the comic undertones seeping through the most basic of situations, turning them into moments of absolute fun. Kraak's direction skillfully brings out the humor, the messaging, the stark contrasts, and the soul of the narrative. He brilliantly captures the beauty of the South African landscape and infuses it with life, adding to the film's visual appeal.

The music, featuring a host of South African artists, livens up the narrative, infusing soul into the scenes. The cinematography deserves special mention as it elegantly showcases the landscape, providing a visual treat for the viewers. The editing is crisp and complements the brisk pacing of the narrative, ensuring audiences are continually entertained.

Altogether, Finders Keepers is a delightful comedic romp that takes viewers on a joyous journey of laughter, surprises, and reflections. It showcases the good, the bad, and the hilarious side of small-town life, and does so with grace, wit, and lots of heart. A must-watch for all comedy fans looking for a fun-filled ride!