Watch Sleeper's Wake

Sleeper's Wake is a gripping South African movie that premiered in 2012. Written and directed by Barry Berk, the movie stars Lionel Newton, Akin Omotoso, and Vatiswa Ndara in lead roles. The story follows John Wraith (Lionel Newton), a man who is dealing with the death of his wife and is struggling to come to terms with his loss. To deal with his grief, he retreats to a remote coastal village where his wife grew up. The movie's opening scene is beautifully shot, capturing the serene and peaceful nature of the village juxtaposed with John's internal turmoil.

Upon his arrival, he meets a local fisherman, Siswe (Akin Omotoso), who offers to take him on his boat to scatter his wife's ashes at sea. The scenes on the boat are beautifully captured, and the cinematography makes the audience feel like they are on that boat with them.

However, things take a dark turn when they spot a body floating in the water. They bring the woman aboard, but to their horror, they realize she's still alive. From there, the movie becomes a psychological thriller, with John and Siswe struggling to understand the woman's identity and her connection to the village.

The woman, named Katya (Jay Anstey), is unconscious when they find her, and when she wakes up, she has no memory of who she is or how she ended up in the water. John takes it upon himself to help her, believing that he can find answers and ultimately help her regain her memory. Along the way, John and Siswe come across various characters who may have clues about Katya's past.

One of the standout performances in the movie is Vatiswa Ndara, who plays the local police officer, Titi. Her character is tough, no-nonsense, and deeply committed to discovering the truth about Katya's identity. She's also not afraid to challenge John's motives and actions, making her a complex and realistic character.

Overall, Sleeper's Wake is a visually stunning and suspenseful movie that delves into grief, guilt, and the human psyche. The script is well-written, and the characters are fully realized, and the movie's pace keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. The sound design and score are also notable, adding to the movie's overall eerie and unsettling atmosphere.

In conclusion, Sleeper's Wake is an excellent movie that deserves more recognition. The performances and storytelling are outstanding, and the movie's themes and ideas linger long after the credits roll. It's a testament to the talent and creativity of South African filmmakers and a must-watch for anyone looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking movie.