Freedom Day celebrates the stories of South African heroes, who through their continuous struggle and prowess, fought for the freedom we enjoy today.
Men and women like Chris Hani, Nelson Mandela, Helen Suzman, Charlotte Maxeke and many more, tirelessly stood with us, for us, to bring change that would later lead to the country’s first-ever democratic vote on 27 April 1994. Today, it is a collective responsibility to reflect on their bravery, as well as honour their patriotism by learning from their choices.
One such icon is Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu, whose legacy lives on through a gripping biographical drama on Netflix, entitled Kalushi. The film, powerful in its execution and messaging, speaks to his life, and his iconic trial, which contributed to the changed course of South African history.
Here are 5 interesting facts about Kalushi, now streaming on Netflix, which make this film a kickass production:
- Kalushi means “Sent From God” in Swahili.
- Pearl Thusi stars in the film and plays the role of Brenda Riveria, Mahlangu’s love interest. Thusi can also be seen in Queen Sono and Catching Feelings, currently streaming on Netflix.
- Gcina Mhlophe plays Martha Mahlangu, mother to Solomon Mahlangu. This is of particular significance as Mhlophe herself was an anti-apartheid activist. Mhlophe is also a director and author and is one of the few successful females in South Africa in this field.
- Thabo Rametsi is the first South African to portray a political liberation hero in a major feature film. Americans always portray this role and for the first time, we can hear and see our stories from the voices and faces of our people.
- Mahlangu’s iconic quotes during his trial still ring true today. Some of his most memorable quotes are, ‘My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom. Tell my people that I love them. They must continue the fight.’ and ‘I don’t care what they do to me. And if they spill my blood, maybe it will give birth to other Solomons.’
Kalushi is now available to steam on Netflix.
Read more on the next page about other South African series and films to watch on Netflix this Freedom Day.
Other content from South Africa includes:
Shadow
Following the brutal murder of his six-year-old daughter, Johannesburg Detective and former Task Force specialist, Shadrach ‘Shadow’ Khumalo, quits his job to become a fixer for people who, like him, have been failed by the criminal justice system.
Queen Sono
The action-packed series follows Queen Sono, the highly trained top spy in a South African agency whose purpose is to better the lives of African citizens. While taking on her most dangerous mission yet, she must also face changing relationships in her personal life.
Hopeville
To support the swimming aspirations of his son, an estranged father attempts to restore a public pool but meets resistance from the community.
Tsotsi
Tsotsi, a young street thug, steals a car only to discover a baby in the back seat and spends six days in a violent and agitated situation which leads to an emotional bond towards the end.
Four Corners
In the Cape Flats, a newly released ex-con exacts revenge and triggers a gang war, sending ripples through the life of a 13-year old chess prodigy.
Liefling
An adventure-loving young girl with a passion for life. She lives on a farm in Hartbeespoort with her father Simon, mother Linda, grandfather Karel, brother Kobus and house-keeper Katy.