| Director: | Thabang Moleya |
| Music: | Samukelo Mahlalela |
| Country: | South Africa |
| Language: | English Zulu |
| Cinematography: | Brad Devine |
| Runtime: | 108 minutes |
| Network: | Netflix |
Lobola Man is a 2024 South African romantic comedy film directed by Thabang Moleya and written by Katleho Ramaphakela. The film stars Lawrence Maleka, Sandile Mahlangu, Kwanele Mthethwa, Nimrod Nkosi, Thembsie Matu, Obed Baloyi, and Sello Ramolahloane, The film delves into the intricacies of modern relationships and cultural traditions in South Africa, specifically focusing on the practice of lobola, a traditional bride price or dowry paid in cattle or money by a groom to the family of his bride.[1]
Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.
Lobola Man follows the story of Ace Ngubeni (Lawrence Maleka), a professional lobola man who is hired to negotiate the bride price, a traditional practice in South Africa and other African countries where the groom’s family pays a price to the bride’s family before marriage. Ace, known for his skills as a negotiator, is also a chronic womanizer who has grown up believing that love and commitment are unattainable concepts. This belief is rooted in his upbringing, shaped by his adulterous and irresponsible father, who often took Ace along to his secret romantic affairs. Despite his role in helping couples solidify their commitments, Ace himself avoids stable relationships.
Ace’s outlook begins to change when he is hired by Duke (Vincent Mahlangu), a shy tech CEO, to negotiate the lobola for his fiancée, Zandile (Kwanele Mthethwa), an outspoken and opinionated woman. Unknown to Duke, Ace and Zandile have already crossed paths, sparking the potential for Ace to reconsider his non-committal lifestyle.
Lobola Man was directed by Thabang Moleya and produced by South African production company Burnt Onion Production. The screenplay was written by Katleho Ramaphakela, who sought to create a story that both honors and critiques the cultural practice of lobola.
Filming
Filming took place in various locations in South Africa, primarily in Johannesburg and Soweto, capturing both the vibrant urban settings and traditional rural landscapes to reflect the clash of cultures in modern South Africa. Principal photography began in 2023, in South Africa.[5] [6]
Lobola Man was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.[7]
Upon its release, Lobola Man received positive mixed, and negative reviews from critics.[9] Seyi Lasisi of Afrocritik described it as one of those films that are obsessively watched and swiftly forgotten, he gave the film 1.5/5 stars. The film was praised for its impressive streaming records making Netflix’s Global Top 10 list from July 8 to 14 2024.[10]