Riding With Sugar

Riding With Sugar, released in 2020, is a poignant and dramatic motion picture that dexterously intertwines the themes of love, loss, migration, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. The movie is commendably directed by acclaimed South African director, Sunu Gonera, and features talented actors like Charles Mnene, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, and Simona Brown to provide an engrossing cinematic experience to audiences.

Charles Mnene plays Joshua, the central character in the story, whose life unfurls in Riding With Sugar like an intricately woven tapestry. Joshua is a bright and talented young man from Zimbabwe who dreams of a better and peaceful life away from the political unrest that ensnared his homeland. His hopes are dashed when a harrowing incident leads to him becoming an orphan and a refugee in the vibrant yet challenging city of Cape Town in South Africa.

In this expansive cityscape, Joshua stands bereft of his family and roots, carrying only his ambition and the poignant memories of his past. His world transforms when he finds refuge and camaraderie in a group of eccentric and lively refugees, each with their own unique stories and hopes. Joshua, himself a former scholarship student and talented cyclist, now peddles his way through the busy streets, trying to evade the undulating waves of life's challenges while delivering food.

Hakeem Kae-Kazim imparts depth to the character of Mambo, who is a Godfather-type figure in Joshua's life. Mambo, a nightclub owner and a mentor to Joshua, offers him shelter and advice. He introduces him to the tough reality of their chosen city, enlightening him about its harsh underbelly hidden beneath a veneer of urban glamor.

The movie touches on the subject of romance with the entry of Olivia, played by Simona Brown. She adds another dimension to Joshua's journey, dizzying him with love and dreams of a future together. Olivia, a British piano scholar with her conflicting troubles, captures Joshua's heart, further complicating his already tumultuous life in the city.

Simultaneously, Riding With Sugar offers scintillating glimpses into the vibrant cultural diversity of Cape Town. Poignant and inspiring, it paints a vivid picture of the lives and dreams of refugees and immigrants, from their optimistic pursuits to their bitter realities.

The movie proffers a hard-hitting commentary on socio-political conditions, immigration issues, and personal struggle for identity. It delves into the profound insights, personal journey, and emotional roller coaster of Joshua, shining a light on his dreams, disappointments, resilience, and above all, his unyielding spirit to rise amidst adversities.

Riding With Sugar keeps the audience captivated with its engaging narrative and persuasive performances. It also underscores the subtle yet powerful messages sprawled across its story; hope is essential, love can be both, a dream and a distraction, and resilience is the key to thrive amidst adversities.

Charles Mnene's portrayal of Joshua deserves special praise; he effortlessly infuses the character with intense emotions, convincing ambitions, and a palpable sense of vulnerability and resilience. Likewise, Simona Brown, as Olivia, offers an earnest performance, evoking the nuances of her character's conflicts and yearning for a better life. Hakeem Kae-Kazim, as Mambo, blends elements of tough love, pity, and empathy to create a multifaceted character that resonates with the audience.

Sunu Gonera's directorial skills shine brightly throughout Riding With Sugar, as he masterfully weaves together a myriad of themes within a single narrative. His adept storytelling, complemented by the vibrant cinematography by Rory O'Grady, represents Cape Town with all its complexities, beauties, and paradoxes.

With its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and sobering social perspectives, Riding With Sugar propels the viewer on an emotionally rich journey that is bound to impress and poignant enough to linger long after. It is a heartfelt cinematic experience that promises a riveting mix of drama, romance, and resilience, all set against the colorful backdrop of the cityscape of Cape Town. It, therefore, stands not only as an exceptional film but also as a profound reflection on hope, dreams, love, and, above all, the power of resilience to elevate life amidst its many tribulations.