A diverse mix of new films hits cinemas across South Africa this weekend, offering something for everyone—from lighthearted road trip comedies and tense thrillers to heartfelt dramas and supernatural horror.
New movies showing at cinemas this weekend
Here’s a look at what you can expect on the big screen.
Die Kwiksilwers
For viewers who enjoy local language films with a lot of heart, Die Kwiksilwers is a comedic road-trip adventure set in South Africa.
It follows Isabe Marais, an elderly widow in her 80s, and her three spirited friends as they break free from her controlling son and take off on a wild ride across the Karoo.
Their goal? To witness a once-in-a-lifetime meteor shower in Sutherland. The story is filled with laughter, friendship, and a celebration of living life to the fullest at any age.
The film is in Afrikaans with English subtitles and features well-known actors like Lida Botha and June Van Merch. Directed by Jordy Sank, it promises warmth and comedy in equal parts.
Fight or Flight
Fight or Flight brings high-stakes action for those who enjoy edge-of-your-seat thrills.
The plot revolves around a mercenary assigned to eliminate a target on an airborne mission. But when she discovers that the situation is more complicated than expected—and that they are both being hunted—she switches gears to protect her target.
Josh Hartnett leads the cast, supported by Charithra Chandran and Katee Sackhoff. Directed by James Madigan, this film mixes suspense with fast-paced action sequences.
Riff Raff
Blending family drama and dark comedy, Riff Raff is centred on Vince, a man who left behind a life of crime nearly two decades ago.
Now settled into a quiet life with his new wife and son, his peace is shattered when his troubled past—embodied by his other son, ex-wife, and their chaotic presence—returns during what should have been a calm New Year’s Eve.
With a cast including Jennifer Coolidge, Ed Harris, and Gabrielle Union, the film explores loyalty, conflict, and the awkwardness of family reunions. Dito Montiel directs this bittersweet and sometimes intense drama.
The Bootnil
In The Bootnil, romance and horror collide in a college campus setting. Set around the Virgin Tree at St. Vincent College, the plot unfolds when a spirit is awakened by a student’s desperate wish for true love.
What begins as an innocent longing turns into a terrifying obsession that builds up over 27 days leading to Holi, an Indian festival. This supernatural tale stars Sanjay Dutt and Mouni Roy and is directed by Sidhaant Sachdev. It combines traditional themes with modern horror, making it a unique offering for fans of Indian cinema.
Thunderbolts
Marvel fans will be glad to see the release of Thunderbolts, a film about a team of antiheroes who are manipulated into undertaking a life-threatening mission. With characters like Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes, the film focuses on redemption, teamwork, and moral gray areas.
Under the direction of Jake Schreier and scored by experimental music group Son Lux, Thunderbolts offers the scale and intensity expected from the Marvel universe.
Whether you’re looking for laughter, suspense, love, or action, this weekend’s cinema lineup offers an impressive range of stories and characters to experience on the big screen.
