· movies · 16 min read
All 35 John Kani Movies (in Order)
Get ready to dive into the world of South African theatre and film icon, John Kani! This article brings together an array of his most notable and acclaimed movies, giving you a glimpse of the versatile actor’s talent and range.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
1. The Wild Geese (1978)
The Wild Geese is a gripping 1978 action-adventure film directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, with a star-studded cast including Richard Burton, Roger Moore, and Richard Harris. This movie tells the thrilling story of a deposed African President who is in need of saving from the corrupt clutches of an African dictator.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
2. Marigolds in August (1980)
Marigolds in August, ” a 1980 drama film, serves as a powerful critique of apartheid and racial segregation in South Africa, penned by the acclaimed South African playwright Athol Fugard. The film’s story unfolds through the lives of three friends, a white man, a black man, and a white woman in a secluded village.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
3. The Grass Is Singing (1981)
The Grass Is Singing” is a powerful and gripping drama from 1981, set in the 1940s of Southern Rhodesia, colonial Africa. The movie follows a young city girl from America who relocates to her husband’s struggling farm. As she becomes increasingly unhappy and unhinged, she embarks on an ill-fated affair with their black servant. The consequences of this decision are devastating, leading to heartbreak and tragedy. Featuring a talented cast including Karen Black, John Thaw, and John Kani, “The Grass Is Singing” is a haunting exploration of love, betrayal, and the dark consequences of passion in a time and place marked by racial tension and societal unrest. The movie’s evocative imagery and deeply emotional storytelling make it a riveting watch, not to be missed by fans of drama or those intrigued by stories set against the backdrop of colonial Africa.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
4. ‘Master Harold’… and the Boys (1985)
Master Harold”. . and the Boys is a powerful and emotionally charged drama set in South Africa during the height of racial tension in the late 1950s. Directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg and written by Athol Fugard, this film explores the raw, painful, and transformative power of hate and prejudice through the eyes of a young white man named Harold, portrayed by Matthew Broderick.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
5. Saturday Night at the Palace (1987)
Saturday Night at the Palace is a powerful drama that explores the harsh realities of racial tensions in South Africa. Developed from a play inspired by true events, the film unfolds within the confines of a fast-food restaurant, where the main conflict lies between a white antagonist, Vince, and a black waiter, September.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
6. An African Dream (1988)
An African Dream, released in 1988, is a poignant drama that delves into the complexities of love and hope amidst the harsh realities of colonial prejudice. Directed by John Smallcombe, this heart-wrenching film follows a couple’s struggle to maintain their relationship in a system determined to destroy it. Set against the backdrop of a twisted and corrupted society, the film is an unflinching portrayal of the relentless oppression that threatened to tear apart the protagonists’ relationship.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
7. Othello (1989)
Othello, ” a powerful drama based on the timeless play by William Shakespeare, takes you on a tragic journey through love, jealousy, and betrayal. In a world where racism deeply taints relationships, the Moorish general Othello finds himself entangled in a web of lies, masterfully orchestrated by the envious Iago.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
8. A Dry White Season (1989)
A Dry White Season” is a gripping drama-thriller directed by Euzhan Palcy and based on the novel by André P. Brink. Set in 1980s South Africa, the film follows the life of a middle-class white suburbanite named Martin Ransom, played by Donald Sutherland, who unintentionally finds himself at the center of South Africa’s brutal political situation.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
9. The Native Who Caused All the Trouble (1989)
The Native Who Caused All the Trouble is a compelling drama based on a true story. Set in South Africa in 1989, the film tells the story of a man who believes that God owns the earth and that land cannot be owned by anyone. Sticking to his deeply rooted belief, he decides to build his church on land that has been occupied by others.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
10. Options (1989)
Options” (1989) is a quirky adventure-comedy film that takes viewers on a wild ride in Africa. The movie follows a young MBA named Steve as he visits the continent to make a business deal. What he doesn’t anticipate is falling in love with a beautiful princess named Tahlia.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
11. Sarafina! (1992)
Experience the powerful world of dance and resistance in the 1992 film, “Sarafina! ” This riveting drama and musical chronicles the courageous struggle of South African teenagers against the oppressive apartheid regime. Directed by Darrell Roodt and written by Mbongeni Ngema and William Nicholson, the film is packed with emotion and features an impressive cast, including stars Whoopi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo, and Miriam Makeba.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
12. In Darkest Hollywood: Cinema and Apartheid (1993)
In Darkest Hollywood: Cinema and Apartheid” is a powerful documentary that delves into the intricate relationship between film and apartheid in South Africa. Spanning a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes, this thought-provoking film presents viewers with a glimpse into the violence that plagued the region during that tumultuous era.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
13. Soweto Green: This Is a ‘Tree’ Story (1995)
In the heart of South Africa, a middle-class American couple decides to relocate to Johannesburg in the aftermath of Nelson Mandela’s historic election as President. Far from their comfortable suburban lifestyle, they embark on a journey to help build the new society.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
14. The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
In the thrilling adventure film “The Ghost and the Darkness, ” a seasoned hunter and a respected bridge engineer join forces in 1896 Africa to track down and kill two ferocious lions that are menacing local construction workers. Set in an era of wild, untamed environments and intense human passion, the film showcases the brutal tension between nature and civilization.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
15. Kini & Adams (1997)
Kini & Adams is an evocative independent film that captures the dreams and aspirations of two friends living in a Zimbabwe village. Kini and Adams yearn for a life beyond their surroundings, fueled by a shared hope to repair an antiquated vehicle and venture to the city.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
16. The Tichborne Claimant (1998)
The Tichborne Claimant” is a gripping drama set in 19th century England, based on real events surrounding the disappearance of Lord Tichborne, the ninth richest nobleman in the country. When his erudite Afro-English valet Bogle hears rumors that Tichborne may have survived the South American shipwreck and settled in Australia, he’s sent to investigate.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
17. Final Solution (2001)
In the gripping drama “Final Solution, ” Gerrit Wolfaardt undergoes a transformation as he is indoctrinated into a belief that black South Africans are a threat to the nation’s wellbeing. As he rises in power with the support of key government and military figures, Gerrit devises an elaborate plan to eradicate these perceived dangers from his land. However, his trajectory takes a dramatic turn when he encounters two individuals who challenge his deeply-held convictions and force him to confront the consequences of his potential actions.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
18. The Bird Can’t Fly (2007)
The Bird Can’t Fly, a heart-wrenching drama directed by Threes Anna, brings a compelling tale of loss, love, and redemption to the big screen. Set in the forgotten town of Fairlands, the film follows Melody, a woman who returns home for the funeral of her estranged daughter, only to find the town swallowed by the advancing desert. There, she discovers a 10-year-old grandson she never knew existed.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
19. Nothing But the Truth (2008)
Nothing But the Truth is a compelling drama-comedy film released in 2009, directed by the talented John Kani. The story revolves around a man who plans his brother’s funeral, only to find his family grappling with the revelation that the deceased was not the person they thought he was. As the brothers’ loved ones attend the funeral, they must come to terms with this newfound truth and the complex emotions that follow.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
20. Endgame (2009)
Endgame, directed by Pete Travis, is a gripping drama based on the untold story of the secret talks that led to the fall of the Apartheid regime in South Africa. The film masterfully weaves together the complex web of negotiations, personal struggles, and sacrifices that ultimately contributed to the end of one of history’s darkest eras.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
21. White Lion (2010)
White Lion (2010) is a heartwarming drama family film that tells the story of a young African boy, Gisani, whose life takes a turn for the extraordinary when he discovers his destiny to protect a rare and majestic white lion cub named Letsatsi. Separated from his pride, Letsatsi must rely on his wits and the support of Gisani to survive in the harsh wilderness. Alongside this captivating adventure, the movie offers a captivating blend of storytelling, friendship, and hope, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
22. How to Steal 2 Million (2011)
In “How to Steal 2 Million” (2011), Jack and Twala, once inseparable partners, find themselves on opposite sides of the law after a heist gone awry. With Jack behind bars for five years, he’s been quietly plotting his comeback. However, Twala’s cunning moves and infidelity leave Jack questioning whether his honest path will truly reward him.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
23. Coriolanus (2011)
Coriolanus” is a Shakespearean drama with a dark twist, directed by the masterful actor Ralph Fiennes. Set in Rome, this banished hero of the city forms an alliance with his sworn enemy to enact his vengeance on the once-beloved metropolis.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
24. Janapriyan (2011)
Janapriyan” is a captivating drama, family movie and musical that was released in 2011. The movie, directed by Boban Samuel, is written by Krishna Poojappura and stars actors Jayasurya, Bhama, and Manoj K. Jayan. The story revolves around a young man named Priyadarshan from a small village who travels to Kochi to take a temporary job in the Taluk Office. Unfortunately, Vaishakhan, the original worker, is on a long leave and Priyadarshan takes his place.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
25. Jail Caesar (2012)
Jail Caesar is a captivating 2012 historical drama that provides an intriguing look into the early life of legendary Roman ruler, Julius Caesar. The film takes an unconventional approach, using three working prisons in South Africa, the U. K. , and Canada as backdrops.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
26. When Voices Meet: One Divided Country; One United Choir; One Courageous Journey (2015)
When Voices Meet: One Divided Country; One United Choir; One Courageous Journey” is a riveting documentary-drama chronicling the unforgettable tale of a South African multiracial youth choir who sought to break down the barriers of Apartheid. Brought together by the courageous spirit of Nelson Mandela’s release, these passionate musicians embarked on a heart-wrenching journey of unity and redemption. Despite facing countless threats and challenges, the choir persevered and sang their way into the nation’s heart, transforming a divided country into one united voice.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
27. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
Captain America: Civil War” is a thrilling Marvel cinematic universe addition, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. The movie is based on a comic book series and follows the complex relationship between Captain America and Iron Man. As political involvement in the Avengers’ affairs creates a rift between the two superheroes, they must navigate their friendship in the face of adversity.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
28. Black Panther (2018)
In the groundbreaking movie “Black Panther” (2018), Chadwick Boseman stars as T’Challa, the heir to the secretive and highly advanced African kingdom of Wakanda. In a time of change, T’Challa must rise to become the king and lead his people into a new era. However, he must first face a formidable challenger from his nation’s past.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
29. The Space - Theatre of Survival (2019)
The Space - Theatre of Survival” is a 2019 documentary film that delves into the life and times of The Space theatre, a unique performance space that brings together people from diverse backgrounds. Directed by Dan Poole and Mark Street, the film explores the transformative power of theatre and its role in uniting a community.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
30. The Lion King (2019)
Experience the epic tale of courage and self-discovery in Disney’s 2019 remake of their classic animation, The Lion King. Directed by Jon Favreau and featuring an all-star cast including Donald Glover, Beyoncé, and Seth Rogen, this film follows the story of a young lion prince who sets out to reclaim his kingdom after his father’s tragic murder. Along this journey of responsibility, loyalty, and sacrifice, Simba learns the true meaning of bravery and discovers his own destiny.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
31. Murder Mystery (2019)
Murder Mystery” is a thrilling comedy-mystery film that follows a New York cop and his wife as they embark on a European vacation in an attempt to rekindle the romance in their marriage. However, their idyllic getaway takes a dangerous turn when they are falsely implicated in the murder of an elderly billionaire.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
32. Black Is King (2020)
Black Is King, ” a 2020 visual album directed by Emmanuel Adjei, Ibra Ake, and Blitz Bazawule, unfurls an epic tale where fantasy, adventure, and drama intertwine. The brainchild of Beyoncé, “Black Is King” boasts a powerful storyline that explores the themes of diversity, culture, and racism, all under the influence of African folklore, as inspired by Disney’s “The Lion King. ” Taking you on an evocative journey, the film’s captivating narrative blends mesmerizing cinematography, music, and poetry. With a star-studded cast that includes Beyoncé, Tina Knowles-Lawson, and Jay-Z, “Black Is King” stands as a testament to the visual album format, winning accolades like 1 Primetime Emmy and 2 wins total.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
33. Seal Team (2021)
Seal Team” is a thrilling animation adventure that hits theaters in 2021. Fearless seal Quinn assembles a band of misfit recruits to make a stand against the relentless attack of razor-sharp toothed sharks. This courageous underwater team embarks on a quest to reclaim the open sea, in a heart-pumping action-comedy that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
34. Beyond the Light Barrier (2023)
Beyond the Light Barrier” is a captivating documentary that explores the life of a renowned meteorologist who grapples with the belief that her beloved alien lover could be the key to solving Earth’s problems. The film delves into her relentless pursuit to convince the world about his existence despite numerous obstacles. Filled with romance and intrigue, this movie will leave viewers questioning the existence of a parallel world and the possibilities it holds.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
35. Murder Mystery 2 (2023)
Murder Mystery 2” is an enthralling action-comedy-crime film set for release in 2023. The movie follows detectives Nick (Adam Sandler) and Audrey (Jennifer Aniston) who are trying to establish their private investigator agency. When their friend, Maharaja, is kidnapped from his own extravagant wedding, the duo must put their skills to the test to solve an international abduction case.
🖼️ Check out these cool movie posters & art
That’s All Folks!
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.