Pretville

Pretville is a nostalgic, vibrant, and musical cinematic journey set in the 50s, specifically tailored for those who relish in the charm and fashion of vintage classic eras. Directed by Linda Korsten, this delightful South African movie features beloved actors like Marlee van der Merwe, Eugene Jensen, and Marno van der Merwe.

The movie derives its name from an enchanting town called Pretville (or 'Pretty Town' in English), which exists in a whimsical world of its own– filled with vintage cars, retro fashion, and catchy tunes reflective of the bygone era. Pretville is entirely inhabited by Afrikaans-speaking people, adding an ethnically unique experience to this retro world.

Marlee van der Merwe plays the role of Linda, a beautiful and spirited damsel who fascinates everyone with her charm and her voice that can mesmerize any listener. The plot of the movie is as sparkling as its vibrant setting. When a motorcycle, a symbol of the advent of the new era, enters Pretville, the balance of the town is toppled, and destiny starts playing its game.

Eugene Jensen plays the role of Fred, a handsome and ambitious young man in search of employment. After being expelled from the town because of certain circumstances, he returns to Pretville on a motorcycle, stirring up this small town and facing events that he had never imagined. His journey is not only physical but also emotional, highlighting themes of love, rivalry, friendship, and personal growth.

Marno van der Merwe portrays the role of Pierre, a witty and popular young man in Pretville who everyone adores. His life takes a turn when Linda enters his life, and the arrival of Fred further complicates the scenario. Relationships and emotions drive the narrative beautifully against the backdrop of an idyllic vintage town.

The vibrant visual aesthetics of the film are an absolute treat to the eye. The brilliantly vivid setting of the movie conveys a sense of nostalgia while also transmitting the thrilling sensation of watching a classic musical - it's like stepping back in time.

Every frame is rich in color, and the vibrancy of the set and costumes add to the overall atmospheric charm of the movie. The film's soundtrack is sensational, interspersed with well-choreographed dance numbers that give life to the already bustling town of Pretville. It's no surprise that Pretville was nominated for multiple awards, with Marlee van Der Merwe winning the Best Actress award at the 2013 kykNET Silwerskerm Festival for her performance in the film.

Pretville is more than a musical; it's a cheerful trip back to a past that's spruced up with contemporary energy. You can dive into this 1950s-inspired marvel and witness a town filled with joy, music, and colors. It’s an ode to simplicity, beauty, love, and dreams. Each character adds their unique flavor to the narrative, creating a rich soil for drama, humor, romance, and a bit of inevitable conflict.

The actors' performances are fantastic and capture the essence of their characters and the time perfectly. The chemistry between the characters is both entertaining and engaging. The crisp, witty dialogues offer plenty of laughs and the music complements the mood of complementing the film.

Overall, Pretville is a charming musical journey that effectively and entertainingly evokes the fifties. The movie is a heartfelt tribute to the era of innocence, love, and classic simplicity, and audience members of all ages are sure to fall in love with this charming Afrikaans retro musical world.

Whether it's the catchy melodious songs that will make you tap your feet or the colorful visual delight feeding the nostalgia of the Golden era, Pretville has all the elements to make it a delightful and entertaining watch. So, get ready to embark on a journey filled with timeless music, unforgettable moments, and characters that will remain in your heart long after the film ends.