Based on real events, Jerusalema: Gangster’s Paradise takes an unwavering and stylised look into the crime, corruption and transgressions of the new South Africa. It tells the story of one young man’s journey from small-time criminal in Soweto, to powerful crime entrepreneur over the turbulent years before and after the fall of apartheid. The film is directed by Ralph Ziman and stars Rapulana Seiphemo (Tsotsi) alongside District 9 cast members Robert Hobbs, Eugene Khumbanyiwa, Kenneth Nkosi and Louise Saint-Claire.
Synopsis of the film:
All Lucky Kunene ever wanted was a BMW 7 series and a house with a sea view. But born in Soweto in the dying years of apartheid, the odds were stacked against him. When the teenager falls under the spell of a Russian trained, ex ANC soldier, with a vendetta against the old regime, Lucky is propelled on a roller coaster ride from petty crime into heists and bank robberies.
After a daring job goes wrong, Lucky flees the township for Hillbrow, a once wealthy and vibrant Johannesburg district, now run down and decaying. Years later when Lucky’s attempts at going straight are proving just as hazardous, he comes up with a new plan: he sets up a housing trust, and promises the tenants being exploited by greedy landlords a better deal. In return for their rent, Lucky ruthlessly negotiates with the landlords, and effectively hijacks the properties from under their noses.
Lucky has come of age: a gangster, a crime boss and the most daring entrepreneur in Johannesburg. But the so-called Hoodlum of Hillbrow will have to use all his brains and street smarts to survive this New Paradise.
Click here for viewing times at The Tricycle in north London, 10 – 15
