Watch Beyond The River

Beyond The River is a 2017 South African movie that follows the story of two men, Duma (played by Lemogang Tsipa) and Steve (played by Grant Swanby), from vastly different backgrounds who team up to compete in the challenging Dusi Canoe Marathon. The movie is based on a true story and is a tribute to the spirit of perseverance that can enable the realization of the impossible.

Duma is a young man from the rural Eastern Cape province while Steve is a successful businessman from Johannesburg. The two men bond over their shared love for canoeing and decide to enter the Dusi Canoe Marathon, a grueling three-day competition that takes place on the uMsundusi and uMngeni rivers between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. However, they face several challenges along the way, both within themselves and from external sources.

Beyond The River is a movie that showcases the gritty determination and resilience of ordinary people. Duma and Steve are not professional athletes, and they face numerous obstacles that would have deterred the average person from even dreaming of competing. Duma, in particular, is burdened by the poverty and hopelessness that surround him. His journey is one of self-discovery and redemption as he breaks free from the negative cycle that has plagued his community.

The movie is also a celebration of the natural beauty of South Africa. The Dusi Canoe Marathon takes place in a truly stunning environment, and the filmmakers take advantage of that fact to create some breathtaking visuals. From the rushing rivers to the majestic mountains, viewers are treated to a glimpse of the raw, untamed beauty that lies at the heart of the country.

The performances by the actors are another highlight of the film. Lemogang Tsipa gives a powerful performance as Duma, imbuing his character with a quiet strength and dignity that is both heartfelt and inspiring. Grant Swanby is equally impressive in his portrayal of Steve, a man whose privileged background hides deeply-rooted pain and trauma.

Another aspect of the movie that stands out is its portrayal of the various cultures and communities that make up South Africa. Duma's rural upbringing and Zulu heritage are contrasted with Steve's urban, white-collar world, and the interactions between the two men and the people they encounter along the way highlight the richness and diversity of the country's cultural landscape.

Beyond The River is a movie that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced seemingly insurmountable challenges in their lives. It is a heartwarming tribute to the power of the human spirit and an ode to the beauty and resilience of South Africa. Despite its relatively unknown cast and low budget, the movie manages to capture something truly special and unique, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Beyond The River is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.