The Wound

Directed by John Trengove

Release Year: 2017
Running time: 88
Country: South Africa, Germany, Netherlands, France
Language: English and Xhosa with English subtitles
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MSRP: $599.00
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Directed by: John Trengove
Writer: John Trengove, Thando Mgqolozana, Malusi Bengu
Crew: Elias Ribeiro, Cait Pansegrouw

Shortlisted for the Academy Award® for Best Foreign Language Film!

The Wound is an exploration of tradition and sexuality set amid South Africa’s Xhosa culture. Every year, the tribe’s young men are brought to the mountains of the Eastern Cape to participate in an ancient coming-of-age ritual. Xolani, a quiet and sensitive factory worker (played by openly gay musician Nakhane Touré), is assigned to guide Kwanda, a city boy from Johannesburg sent by his father to be toughened up, through this rite of passage into manhood. As Kwanda defiantly negotiates his queer identity within this masculine environment, he quickly recognizes the nature of Xolani’s relationship with fellow guide Vija. The three men commence a dangerous dance with each other and their own desires and, soon, the threat of exposure elevates the tension to breaking point. The Wound had its world premiere at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival, was the opening night selection of Berlinale Panorama, and won Outstanding First Feature at Frameline in San Francisco.

Reviews

"Affecting and suspenseful. A potent drama of sexual identity and divided loyalty."
- –– A. O. Scott, The New York Times
 

"A milestone in South African cinema.”

- –– Guy Lodge, Variety
 

"Takes real chances. Strong performances are fueled by the wild beauty of the rural setting."

- –– Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter
 

Awards

Outstanding First Feature – Frameline San Francisco LGBT Film Festival

 

Best International Narrative Feature – Outfest Los Angeles LGBT Film Festival

 

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