South Africa10 Essential Films from South AfricaStop 1 of 10

Mapantsula

Name: Mapantsula
Released: 1988

1988

A self-serving Johannesburg petty thief, indifferent to politics, is swept up in the anti-apartheid struggle after a run-in with the police forces him to choose sides. A landmark South African crime drama made in defiance of the apartheid regime.

Return to the complete list Film notes Watch options

Part of 10 Essential Films from South Africa

This film is stop 1 of 10 in the hand-ranked native-cinema route through South Africa. See the complete ranking or read the selection methodology.

Watching this film stamps South Africa in the 196 country film challenge.