Catch A Fire

This is an incredible movie. For a one sentence review, that is what it comes down to. I saw this movie last night with a good friend of mine, and we both had a hard time speaking anything of intelligence for a good twenty minutes after the show. This is not an action/suspense entertainer it is an action/suspense/drama firecracker. This is a very heavy movie, so for anyone with a faint heart when it comes to apartheid and oppression I suggest you stay away, or prepare yourself. Catch a Fire is closely based on a true story that took place during the late 70s and 80s oppression stricken South Africa.

Derek Luke, representing the real life Patrick Chamusso, gives an Oscar worthy performance. The issues and factual accounts in this move are eye-opening to say the least. Tim Robbins, playing anti-terrorist investigator Nic Vos, satisfies his role with near flawless success as the protagonist-looking antagonist. Both actors are incredible on screen and work very well together. With the thoughtful direction of Phillip Noyce (Bone Collector, Patriot Games) the story comes to life on the big screen and you feel as if you are apart of the struggle.

We as 20th century Americans do not know the first thing about the type of oppression represented in the movie. Even the minority citizens in this country have never had to bear the wrath of a tyrant government looking for complete control and submission. After the movie was over I had to admit that I was all but oblivious to the brutal abuse and extreme prejudice-conflict in South Africa. In school I learned the basics about conflicts in the county and constant battles with segregation, but nothing to the extent that this story reveals.

I highly suggest this move as a must-see, either on the big screen or at home when it arrives on DVD. It is an educational and informative piece that keeps your stomach tight with anticipation the entire hour and 48 minutes. My hat is off to all involved in the production and to those real life individuals the movie and actors represent. Catch A Fire definitely gets an A.

- Mitch G