| Story: | Kagiso Modupe |
| Director: | Zolani Phakade |
| Music: | K.O |
| Country: | South Africa |
| Language: | English Zulu |
| Cinematography: | Gavin Sterley |
| Runtime: | 96 minutes |
| Network: | Netflix |
Losing Lerato 2 is a 2024 South African Action drama film on Netflix a sequel to the 2019 drama film Losing Lerato. The film continues the gripping story of a father's desperate attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter amidst personal and societal challenges. Directed by Zolani Phakade, the film is written, and co-produced by Kagiso Modupe, who also stars in the lead role.[1]
The film also features an ensemble cast of Kagiso Modupe, Nefisa Mkhabela, Zolisa Xaluva, Aubrey Poo, Dineo Langa, Lerato Marabe and Zia Kani. It was released on Netflix on 2 August 2024.[2]
Lerato's father has been in prison for 15 years. When he is finally released due to illness, she'll do anything to make sure they aren't parted again.
Following the dramatic events of the first film, Thami (Kagiso Modupe) struggles to rebuild his life and maintain his bond with his daughter, Lerato (Nefisa Mkhabela). As he navigates the legal and emotional aftermath of his actions, Thami encounters a new challenge as he requires a kidney transplant. When Lerato's appeals to her influential stepfather are ignored, she takes drastic actions to save her father's life, demonstrating unwavering determination and love.
| Losing Lerato 2 | |
| Type: | soundtrack |
| Artist: | K.O |
| Released: | 2024 |
| Length: | 3:24 |
| Label: | Sony Music Africa |
| Year: | 2024 |
The film's soundtrack album and background score were composed by Ntokozo Mdluli (K.O).[5]
Bakwena Productions produced the film which features a talented ensemble cast, including several returning actors from the first film. Principal photography took place in various locations across South Africa, capturing the authentic backdrop of the story.
Casting
In July 2024, Nefisa Mkhabela was reported to star in lead roles replacing Kagiso Modupe’s real-life daughter Tshimollo as the older version of Lerato.[6] Entertainment commentator Jabulani Macdonald also announced on his X page (formerly Twitter) that Nefisa would be joining the film.[7] Nefisa took the trailer for the second season of Losing Lerato to her Instagram page to share confirming her involvement.
Mbali Mbatha of News24 (website) described the film as disappointing and underwhelming, he noted that Tshimollo Modupe, who portrayed young Lerato in the original film, delivered a far superior performance compared to Mkhabela, who played the adult version of the character.[8]
Seyi Lasisi of Afrocritik stated: "Although Losing Lerato 2 quickly adopts an incoherent disposition and is littered with unnecessary and prolonged scenes, its attempts to explore the intricacies of the family can be appreciated. Even when the acting is largely underwhelming and the story development shoddy, one can still admire the film’s botched attempt at addressing the theme of sacrificing for one’s own family", he gave the film 2/5 stars.[9]
The sequel continues to explore themes of parental rights, the impact of divorce on children, and the societal and legal hurdles that can complicate family relationships. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance, love, and understanding in overcoming these challenges.
Losing Lerato 2 was released on Netflix on 2nd August 2024.[10]