TOP LIST: 10 Most Powerful Women In Film & Television

The month of March, known as international women's month in honor of international women's day that falls on the 8th, is sadly coming to an end. To usher out this legendary period that celebrates the amazing female figure, I have compiled this post that highlights the industry's top figures and ranks the most powerful women in film and television globally; executives, reps, producers, showrunners and stars — all who make an impact in the industry.

Dubbed the "Queen of All Media", Oprah Winfrey is ranked the richest African-American of the 20th century, the greatest black philanthropist in American history, and is currently North America's first and only multi-billionaire black person. She was the first black female pioneer of daytime television and paved way for many people of color in the media industry. As little girls we all grew up looking up to her and dreamt of one day becoming versions of Oprah. She currently owns her "OWN" network and continues to be a great influence in the global TV sector.

Shonda Rhimes is a television producer and writer. She is the creator, head writer, executive producer and showrunner of some of the most loved TV shows in America and internationally, including the medical drama series "Grey's Anatomy", it's spin-off "Private Practice", the political thriller series "Scandal", "How To Get Away With Murder" and the new show "The Catch". Rhimes is co-founder of her production company Shondaland. She is one of the most admired TV producers in the world is definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Cheryl Boone Isaacs is an American film marketing and public relations executive. She has represented the Public Relations Branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), known for its annual Academy Awards (Oscars), on the AMPAS Board of Governors for 21 years. On July 30, 2013 she was elected as the 35th president of AMPAS. Boone Isaacs is the first African American to hold this office, and the third woman after Bette Davis and Fay Kanin.

Debra Lee is an American businesswoman. She is currently the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET, the parent company of Black Entertainment Television. The mother of two, has sat on the board of directors for a number of companies/organizations, including the National Cable & Telecommunications association the Ad Council, and the National Cable Television Association. Debra Lee was named one of the "100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment" by The Hollywood Reporter due to her many achievements in her 25-plus year career at BET, and we will forever love her even more.

Genevieve Hofmeyer is one of South Africa's most respected and sought after producers. She is the co-founder and Managing Director at Moonlighting Films, the best film production company in Africa. She has worked on numerous great productions locally and internationally; and she is mostly known for her amazing work on South African/international co-productions such as "Avengers: Age Of Ultron", "Invictus", "Safe House", "Mad Max: Fury Road", "Eye in the Sky" and many more. She has taken up roles as Executive Producer, Line Producer, Production Manager, and Supervising Producer; making her very powerful in the industry indeed.

Chioma Ude is the founder and executive director of Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and an ardent film lover. She produced the 2008 Africa Movie Academy Awards and the institution of a brainchild of hers called the AMAA Charity Benefit evoked an intense passion in her for the film industry. She enjoys fund-raising for filmmakers and has produced premieres for some of the best films in Nigeria, an art that has set her on the right path for her role as founder of AFRICA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (AFRIFF). The 5 day event features several activities that included workshops, screenings, film premiere, awards night & a fashion show. Chioma is highly respected by many in the African film industry and has a big influence in the Nigerian circles.

Kathryn Bigalow is an American film writer and director. Her films include "Near Dark", "Point Break", "Strange Days", "The Weight of Water", "K-19: The Widowmaker", the war film "The Hurt Locker", action thriller war film "Zero Dark Thirty", and the short film Last Days of Ivory. "The Hurt Locker" won the 2009 Academy Award for Best Picture, BAFTA Award for Best Film ; and was nominated for the 2009 Golden Globe Award for Best Drama. Bigelow became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director, the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing, the BAFTA Award for Best Direction, and the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Director. In April 2010, she was named on the Time 100 list of most influential people of the year and continues to thrive successfully in the industry.

Bonang Matheba is a South African television host, radio personality and business woman. She is most recognized for having presented the popular SABC 1 music show Live Amp, previously known as "Live", and SABC 3's Top Billing. She currently is a presenter on magazine show "Afternoon Express" and is also a radio host presenting the show "The Front Row" on SABC 's radio station Metro FM. Her success in the TV industry at a young age has made her a very admirable and influential figure among the youth. She has broken a number of records such as being the first African personality to be face of global beauty brand, Revlon, as well as getting her very own insert on E! The Queen B has consistently climbed the ladder of success and even after all that she has achieved, we look forward to see do more.

Sara Blecher is a co-founder of CINGA, a South African-based production company that has made a number of award-winning features, documentaries and drama series. An honors graduate of NYU, Blecher has directed some outstanding and noteworthy films including "Bay of Plenty", "Surfing Soweto", "Otelo Burning", "Ayanda", and "Dis Ek, Anna". She recently walked away with a Golden Horn Award for Best Achievement in Directing in a Feature Film at the SAFTAs and has won several festival awards for her films. She is by far the best female director in the continent at the moment.

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In 2009 Helen Kuun left the corporate world and started Indigenous Film Distribution, a company that focuses on South African and African content; helping the continent’s filmmakers to get their movies watched on a variety of platforms, including cinemas, DVD and television. Indigenous Film Production is one of the best distribution companies in Africa and it came at a time when it was clear that there was a growing need for a film distributor that could tap into Africa's growing industry and new potential. Helen is currently one of the most powerful women, not only in the distribution sector, but the industry as a whole.

TV REVIEW: Umlilo S03E02

Last week's episode ended off with Mnqobi staggering through the corridors at Palesa Thlali's work place, drunkenly inviting her for a drink. I expressed my surprise by this because they had just met and she seemed like a strictly professional person for a client (yes, even Mnqobi) to think of ever paying her a social visit in that state of sobriety. This week we start off the episode with Mnqobi continuing with his drinking spree, this time in a more appropriate place with a more appropriate person (a friend of his whom he narrates his embarrassing encounter with Palesa to). However, this is really just the least exciting scene in this week's episode; and believe me, things do get heated!

See a recap of episode 1 here.

Thembi gets involved in her first fight in jail, and it is not pretty at all. One of the inmates provokes a snake laying quietly in its hole when she comes and hustles Thembi. The two argue for a while and it was when Nancy threw the first punch that gates really opened up for Nomzamo's character. She throws back one defensive jab and what followed after that was like a reign of terror over that poor girl who really never saw it coming. Thembi smashes her head on the metal bed stands and bashes her face with closed fists until she was a total mess, covered in blood and most probably unrecognizable. It was a shock and a thrill to watch Thembi in her physically strongest yet, and while we have known her to be prime evil, let's all admit how we didn't quite think that she had this much in her. She pulled Nancy apart like she was beating up an animal, with absolutely no remorse or hesitation at all. It is almost like she had been in worse situations and done worse before. Watching that scene, we wouldn't put it past her. However, you will remember that last week I did say that I thought she was now more of herself than she ever was playing Khwezi. And I mentioned that I saw Thembi as more of a hood girl than the suburban snob that Khwezi was.

When Vuyo Vilakazi comes back to see Thembi in jail, he agrees to take up her case. Even after much deliberation, I highly doubt that he truly knows what he is getting himself into. Thembi tells him that she needs for him to believe her as his lawyer, but we can see that he is still in a bit of doubt. It is only after Thembi tells him about how it was Mnqobi who shot Dumile and not her that Vuyo's confidence picks. He cannot wait to delve into the case and prove this theory right to everyone, setting his client off the charge (but like I said, he doesn't know what he is in for).

When Mnqobi pays a visit to Palesa to sign some documents for the case against Thembi, Palesa handles the situation very professionally even after last week's incident. She doesn't bring it up at all or act any awkward. But Mnqobi still manages to feel judged. That is when we see Palesa pretty much sympathizing with him. For the first time, we see a much softer side of her, which really lingered throughout this whole episode. When Mnqobi tells her about his financial struggles she is quick to assist with a contact for a work contract. At that very moment, I start questioning things about this situation because when we met Palesa last week she didn't strike me as one to get emotionally involved in a clients' business, especially with personal issues. Could she be more softer than we thought or is Mnqobi's charm that strong?

Mnqobi pays a visit to Dumile in hospital. I am not quite sure why he still does this when she has made it clear that she is pretty much leaving him for Spikiri. Does he feel guilty for shooting her or is he keeping an eye on her not to tell the police the real story about who shot her? As usual Dumile acts very hostile towards him and chases him out of the room. But during their verbal argument, Andile who is waiting outside with Phindile and barges in to break up the fight, is able to pick up that Mnqobi shot Dumile.

Andile then goes to visit Thembi in jail to ask for help in changing her surname in attempt to distance herself from the Simelanes (yes, now we know why she goes by "Bhengu" at school). In my previous review, I mentioned that Andile's character seems to be maturing this season with a much stronger storyline. But is she mature enough for the road she seems to be rushing onto; changing her identity illegally, scheming up with Thembi, pretending to be in good terms with Dumile when she is really working to defy the family. I have a feeling that this might all catch up with her soon and she will find herself in a tight corner that she might not know how to escape. As Thembi gives her a contact for a person that will assist her with changing her identity and where to find him, Andile takes notes like a school girl. It almost seems like Thembi is in training with her young protégé, polluting Andile's naïve little mind to become like what she is.

Mnqobi is at his lowest and darkest point of his career and financial life. He is so desperate, he is willing to do anything. I guess that is why he goes to see TK for a loan request. Just like I probably would, TK laughs at his face for this. You will remember that Mnqobi betrayed TK who was his business partner in season 2 and almost got him arrested. Mnqobi is then "forced" to take up an offer from his cousin to smuggle Rhino Horns to Zimbabwe in his truck while transporting food for the new client that he got through Palesa. My guess is that this is not only his path to financial freedom but Mnqobi could be turning back to exactly how he was in the past - right back to square one - with his wishes to change and do things legally this time going right down the drain.

Andile barges into her lecturer's office to question the low mark he gave to her for her assignment, only to walk away with a coffee date. I'll admit that when the storyline about how Andile would date her lecturer was revealed to us, I didn't think it would happen so soon into the season or so awkwardly either. Andile was just there as an ordinary student looking for her mark to be adjusted, and it was only their second encounter yet so unusually, Mr. Ntuli just said he wouldn't alter her mark but would like to take her out for coffee. Just like that? Really??? What shocked even more was that Andile said she would think about it! If my lecturer asked me for a date in that manner, I think I would be too shocked to even act mature about it. I would probably rush out of there like a 10 year old, not knowing what to say at all. But that's just me being me.

After doing his research and confronting everyone that Thembi knew with his theory of Mnqobi shooting Dumile, Vuyo comes back with even more doubts and expresses this to a Thembi who doesn't take too well to it. She wants him to believe her, but he doesn't believe her. She is hurt and angered by this, and chases him out; firing him as her lawyer. For the first time we see her get in touch with her emotions. She cries hysterically over this and it could have really hurt her feelings. But why is Thembi so desperate for someone to believe her? Is it because no one ever has and she yearns for that feeling of having someone believe her or is it just one of the manipulative tactics. Vuyo won't leave when Thembi tells him to, but instead changes his statement, telling him that he believes her (make up your mind Vuyo, do you believe her or nah?). When Thembi gets closer to Vuyo and pretty much seduces him, leaving us with an intimate cliff hanger; we are immediately reminded of her twisted ways and how we can never believe her display of emotions to ever be sincere.

What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedoDlamini

[REPOST] FEATURE: Creating a Sustainable Film and TV Industry in Swaziland

I posted this article some weeks ago, but I just felt that it is an interesting read and I would love to share it with my new readers; so I decided to repost it.

The motion picture industry is a multi-billion-dollar business with significant profit revenue and global influence. It is a vehicle for culture and a major driver of economic growth, contributing billions to the world’s economy. Developed countries have recognized film and television industries as vital economic sectors for years now and have worked to develop sustainable and profitable local motion picture industries for themselves. Industries that have contributed to GDP and gave them status power globally. Creative industries in the US added $698 Billion to the US economy by the beginning of 2015 while British creative industries contributed £84.1bn to the UK economy as at January 2016.

Swaziland's film and television industry has had to deal with the complex challenge of creating a sustainable local film and television sector industry for all Swazis. Although the industry has had various discussions from all major stakeholders about the necessary action that needs to be taken, nothing tangible has really been achieved and the need for further transformation and development in the industry remains. So, how do we really create a local industry that is culturally relevant, self-sustainable, globally competitive and able to contribute significantly to the gross domestic product of the country and continental region?

Like any other industry, there are certain key elements that have to be implemented to ensure the success of the film and TV sector. As a matter of fact, it is evident that all sectors of the industry have an integral role to play to build a sustainable local film and television industry. First of all, the industry needs willing and able active participants that will directly work as part of the film and TV sector. These are creative and business minded individuals that make up the labour market of the industry. They work in different fields as filmmakers and TV professionals, whether creatively or corporately. I don't just mean writers, director and producers; but designers, marketers, distributors and many more as well. We have seen a number of these people currently present in the country, mostly working independently and freelance. This tells us that there is definitely a huge interest in the industry and a secure market for it.

We then need training and skills development for the labour market. For any industry to run effectively and efficiently, there are certain professional skills and standards that must be acquired and maintained, and that is what education and training programs provide. Swaziland currently only has one institution that provides training in film and television, while the rest of the population is left to either enrol in schools outside the country or do on the job training. Even so, this one university does not, and cannot cater for the entire industry on its own. We still don't have proper acting or costume design and make for film & TV courses in the country. The Ministry of Education together with the various training institutions need to start providing more platforms for people looking to get qualified in film and television.

Capacity, as we know, is vital for any industry to develop and become sustainable. Capacity is determined by resources, of which financial capital is a major factor. No business or industry is capable of running on a negative balance, and yet the film industry in Swaziland is expected to do so on a daily basis. There is currently no financial investment being injected into the industry and the government as well as financial institutions in the country seem reluctant to realise that the industry is a professional sector that could potentially become a major contributor to the economy. Filmmakers are forced to constantly deep into their own pockets while other industries such as Agriculture, Science, Business and Health are financially supported each and everyday. There needs to be government grants, bank loans, private instituted funds...there needs to be proper investment in order for the sector to function properly.

The industry needs to be protected and regulated by law. At the present moment, the film industry in Swaziland is running on freelance mode and no one is taking responsibility for its operations. Yes, it has been placed under the ICT ministry and there various associations formed with intent to help develop the industry and look after filmmakers' interests, but we haven't really seen much effectiveness. Where is the copyright bill? What are the terms and regulations of content distribution? What are the requirements of working on an international collaboration? What about payment and salaries of workers in the industry, who determines that? It is clear that the law in Swaziland is not created to run a sustainable film industry and there are major loopholes that still need to be addressed.

Lastly we need a secure consumer market. Entertainment has been a huge demand for a lot of individuals and households for many years. Majority people in the country, especially in the sub-urban and urban areas, spend a significant amount of their income on entertainment. So there is absolutely no doubt that the market exists. However, due to lack of local content, that revenue has mostly gone out to foreign businesses. Motion picture is a huge vehicle for culture and a major medium for information distribution. Therefore, there is no doubt that Swaziland has a significant and secure consumer market for film and TV. Local filmmakers must create quality local content and understand the needs and wants of the broader Swazi audiences.

The American industry supports 1.9 million American workers every single day – writers, costume designers, make-up artists, stuntmen, set designers, lighting technicians, as well as the  people who collect tickets and sell popcorn at local cinemas. A well built film industry comes with a lot of opportunities; from the creation of  jobs to increased gross domestic product and global influence. However, it also requires a contribution from all economic sectors of the country. The business & financial sector, the law sector, the education sector, as well as the creative media & technology sector all need to work together to ensure the creation of a relevant, sustainable, competitive and profitable film and TV industry.

TV REVIEW: Partners In Crime S01E03

In the last episode we were left holding our breaths after Tuppence was caught playing undercover as Rita's maid/secretary while Tommy was also caught snooping for clues to find Jane after pretending to be a person called Drennan, a money man expected by Brown's gang. Tuppence managed to escape through a window and ran down a drain, however her husband on the other hand wasn't so lucky. Tommy was apprehended and placed on a chair with a noose around his, nervously hoping that no one kicks off his support from beneath his feet.

See a recap of episode 2 here.

Tuppence is back at home, worried about Tommy who is still held in the basement of a Soho brothel by Brown’s gang as they decide what to do with him. They want him to steal a file from Military Intelligence titled ‘Linden Tree’ or they kill his son, George.

Tommy is then released and he goes back home to Tuppence. Interestingly, he keeps his assigned mission a secret and attempts to complete it on his own. However, being the clumsy and easily frightened man that he is, he fails dismally. Tuppence knows that something is wrong with him and forces him to tell her what is going on. This shows just how well the two know each other and these are the little ways in which their relationship is put under a yspotlight because they are obviously not very affectionate people. After hearing about what Brown's men have sent Tommy to do and that their son's life is in danger, she takes matters in her own hands. She steals the file and they take it to Brown's gang. Tuppence has certainly always been more assertive than Tommy and continues to prove herself to be a little smarter than her husband is. I am afraid though the even though the two work well as a couple, Tuppence's continuous domination leads us to respect Tommy even less.

Though they find that the Linden Tree file is about Carter, they decide that it is worth it to give it to the gang in order save their son's life. At least now I know how much they love George because all along I was worried about how they have never considered that what they are doing may somehow put their child's life in danger. You will be surprised though (or not) to hear that as soon as the file is handed to the gang, the Beresfords are quickly back to their undercover tricks. They try to bug another one of Brown's associate's car. They follow him until they realize that their brakes aren't working. They then let him drive off into a field and retreat from their plan. However, Tommy has finally had it. He wants to withdraw from the entire mission. He wants to go back to normal life and tries to convince his wife to see reason. This makes sense because I would be worried if an ordinary middle class couple like Tuppence and Tommy could actually get roped into secret service type of business just like that and get away with it so smoothly. They are not qualified or equipped to solve such missions without at least breaking down once at some point.

All of this talk about quitting and going back to normality is practically thrown out the window when they get home and find their house raided. Jane's notebook, which they took from the train, is in the middle of all the mess and this gives them a clue about where Jane hid the recording (ofcourse, we have known this all along) and who Mr Brown could be.

Jane's boyfriend, Julius, reveals himself and tries to steal the recording from Tommy and Tuppence. The two set out on a bicycle chase to catch him. After he is brought in for questioning, he makes his confession and Cater is convinced that he is Mr Brown. Not Tuppence. Tuppence cannot be fooled quite easily. She and her husband are still very sceptical. So they continue to search for the real Brown (and in true Beresfords' style, they do it without the professionals). Just like in most classic movies, the episode ends with a rooftop scene and gun pointing moment as the armature spies come face to face with the villain. At last, the good guys have won and brought the bad guys down to their knees. A sudden reminder that this is all fiction,because honestly, such things only happens on TV (you know how I have never bought the whole story of Tommy and Tuppence being spies!).

But happens now? Do they go back to their old lives or will there be a new mission to accomplish? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedoDlamini

TV REVIEW: House of Cards S04E03

What last week's episode really confirmed is that it is definitely war between the Underwoods. Even though Claire seemed to be acting cool about Frank's sly tactics to sabotage her plans to run for office after promising to keep out of her plans (but we would all be fools to take Frank for his word), we all knew that she would not take this lying down. While Claire and Frank have worked as a close knit team in previous seasons with Claire constantly following Frank's lead, it is very interesting to see them in loggerheads with Claire showing her true power, not because her man has required her to do so, but because it is what she needs to do in order to get ahead; even against Frank. I also highlighted last week how Frank's characteristics have clearly rubbed off on Claire as we see her using some of his dirty ways to get what she wants. Last week we watched her as she got leverage by hiring a photographer to document Jackie's affair with Remy in attempt to sway her to agree to come out in support of Doris Jones’s breast cancer clinic. While it was shocking enough to see her do this to Jackie, it was even more amusing to see her turn the tables on Frank this week.

See a review of episode 2 here.

Claire sends off Leann Harvey to retrieve an old photograph of Frank's father shaking hands with the Ku Klux Klan from a secret Underwood safe deposit box. She then arranged for the picture to be blown up into a billboard and erected on the outskirts of Gaffney, South Carolina, which is Frank's home town. This all happens right at the time when the Democratic Primary is due to take place in South Carolina the very next day. This causes huge threat on Frank's African-American vote and possibly more damage to his entire campaign. And as you may have suspected the obvious, the media is having a field day with the story.

Franks tries to dig himself out this hole that the first lady has dug him into by justifying his father's actions with a rather heartfelt speech in a black church (of course at this time he doesn't know that Claire did it, which is why Doug Stamper is out there turning over tables and chairs in attempt to find the culprit). He says that his father was seen dealing with a Klansman only because he needed money to save the family farm and the white supremacist was his only help to a loan. In his attempt to sway the people of South Carolina's hearts, Frank's borrows a page from his poor background while growing in the town and he reminds them of how they had always been "one community , one family". While we are used to Frank having his way with words whenever he needed to talk his way out of a situation or convince people of his plans, this is the first time we might have seen him actually speak from the heart. However, it is not enough to undo the damage done by the billboard as not only does he lose primary elections in his home town, he also loses Doris Jones' endorsement too.

When Claire finally confesses that she is the one who sabotaged Frank's campaign in South Carolina, she makes it known that "I'll do whatever it takes…but I will not let this go." Claire no longer just wants to run for office as Congress in Texas' 30th District, she wants to be vice president. She wants Frank to let her be his running mate for the general election or in her own words, she will end the entire campaign. We have always seen Claire as a rather intimidating woman even throughout the past three seasons, but this time she has certainly gone beyond intimidation. Now she is down right scary.

Lucas Goodwin pays a visit to Heather Dunbar, Frank's Democratic rival, to tip her off about the president's past murders. After several challenges to get through to her office, Lucas gets there only to be get a cold shoulder from Heather. She declares his story a total lie and says Lucas is troubled and a convicted felon. I am not sure if Heather is that trusting of Frank to not even research into the story or it is the pressure not to be seen gullible that blinds her from the truth and leads her to not believing Lucas' story.

After 4 seasons of displaying absolute emotional detach-ness, Frank seems to be finally turning human. Is it that all the suppressed emotions are finally becoming too much for him or is he really growing a conscious. He is having violent and traumatic dreams and hair raising hallucinations. One time when he goes down stairs for a glass of water in the middle of the night, he sees the water running out of the tap to be blood. Not having Claire's support was hard enough, and now having Claire working against him might be adding to the pressure. Could this finally be his downfall? Is Frank finally loosing himself? This reminds me of Shakespeare's Macbeth when Lady Macbeth finally succumbed to all the suppressed emotions and memories of her sins. She too started to have nightmares and hallucinations; and pretty much went crazy. Could this be where Frank's storyline is taking us?

What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedoDlamini

TV REVIEW: "Umlilo" Season 3 Premier

If you recap back to season 2, you will remember that the series ended with Khwezi (or is it Thembi?) having held Mnqobi and Dumile some kind of hostage, manipulated Mnqobi into shooting Dumile before finally burning the house down.

The third Season picks up in the after math, and yet the drama seems far from being over. We opened up the premier episode with a scene of the Simelane family moving into their new home, which is a total down grade from their lavish mansion that was reduced to ashes. Andile complains that they all have to share a bathroom, and little does she know that this should be the least of her worries as Mnqobi is on the phone looking for a loan to keep afloat. It seems that the days of milk and honey are long gone for these "haves" (or is it "have nots" now?)

Khwezi/Thembi is in jail. She seems to have made a friend (a fellow inmate) who is seen following her around into their ward and she shares her story about how and why she killed her husband before getting sentenced. Even in prison, Thembi is the least remorseful person you will ever meet. In fact, it does not even seem like she is satisfied with her revenge on Mnqobi so far. You can immediately see that she is looking for ways to get out and continue with her plot. As she chats to her new found friend, Thembi looked very vindictive, cold and emotionless. Nomzamo Mbatha who plays the character does a perfect job. Her gestures, the look in her eyes and her voice projection all leave no traces of her sweet and humble self in this role. She is Thembi through and through. Her inmate friend comes useful when she informs her of a lawyer that could defend her case. What is interesting however is that this lawyer only takes up cases of domestic abuse but it seems that is the angle from which Thembi wants to tackle her case. Who will she pin this on? Mnqobi?

Dumile wakes up from her coma at the hospital and alas!, she has lost her memory and doesn't remember what happened. She questions the nurse on duty about how long she had been unconscious and why she was in hospital. However, it is not long before a flashback of the incident plays in her head and she remembers exactly what happened. I find it quite intriguing that the writers chose to have Dumile lose her memory only to gain it back in such speed. I guess it was to create a little suspense and curiosity about how things would unfold next for the viewer because it really served no purpose to the storyline. And even so, we didn't get much time to really ponder on how her memory loss would affect the whole plot. So my question still remains, what was the purpose of Dumile's memory loss?

She goes on to find out that she lost her baby and chases Mnqobi out of her hospital room when he comes to see her. Remember, she knows that he is the one who shot her and does not trust him at all. Mnqobi burns incense at his home and talks to the late Cebsile whom he affectionately calls "Khize". He asks that she helps him in making sure that the case does not go to trial. Now Mnqobi's intentions become clear to us. He obviously does not want the world to know of his past sins. This makes the plot very interesting because while Thembi has been the number one enemy in many's eyes for the past two seasons, it is now even more clearer that Mnqobi is not entirely the good guy. So will we keep routing for him or does he deserve what Thembi has done to his family? And knowing Cebsile's character, is it even practical for Mnqobi to ask for her assistance in carrying out his plans? Cebsile used to strike me as an honest woman and I am not quite sure if she would approve of this whole drama, even if it is to protect her family.

We go back to Thembi who meets with Vuyo Vilakazi, the lawyer suggested to her by her inmate friend. He immediately dismisses her request as her case does not qualify as a domestic abuse case. Vuyo seems like a very gullible person. Yes, he seems like a competent lawyer that knows what he is doing and might even be good at it, but right at first sight, I just saw him as someone that could easily be played (especially by Thembi). He appears to be the type of person that invests emotions into his work (maybe that is why he finds domestic abuse cases quite important to him) and although he needs a bit of convincing from Thembi, it was not hard to know that he would eventually come around.

When Phindile visits Dumile in hospital, she is happy to see her "mother" while her sister, Andile, seems to project a little bad attitude. We are not sure why she is there if she does not want to be there, or why she feels the need the be in a foul mood. Is it because Dumile has cheated on her father or is she upset about Thembi's arrest? Andile has always been some kind of a moody girl anyway.

In the mist of all that confusion, it is even worse when Phindile leaves the room only for Andile to come around in her attitude and update Dumile about Thembi's arrest then sort of attempt to collaborate with her on what should be done. Maybe her full of attitude self will finally play out a more mature and fuller role than the hormonal young girl we are used to seeing her portray. Plus we see her go by the surname "Bhengu" at school. Is this just to distance herself from the headlines that her family is making or is it part of a bigger tactic on her part?

Then "Umlilo" said let there be Khanyi Mbau, and so it was. Khanyi gets introduced as Palesa Thlali, the prosecutor in Mnqobi's case and she means business! When she first meets Mnqobi, she is very professional and a bit stiff, giving him a firm handshake; totally shooting down his flirtatious behaviour (I'm just shocked that the man still laps after women even in his state). Palesa remains very corporate throughout her interaction with Mnqobi and provides the best client service. She seems rather like an extremely focused woman and is very emotionally detached. Unless the writers chose to let us into her personal space, I doubt we will get to see her beyond her work life. Khanyi Mbau nails this character to the T! I love how she has taken the role and given it a bit of her own traits (even as a professional, Palesa definitely has style and class) without taking away from who the character should be. In fact, she brings her to life splendidly. This is probably the strongest and most intense role we have seen Mbau play yet, and she does it beautifully.

Mnqobi pays a second visit to a sleeping Dumile in hospital waits for her to wake up before trying to decieve her and convince her that she was shot by Thembi. When Dumile doesn't accept his lies, he says that Thembi forced him to do it. He is thrown out of the room again. On his way out of the hospital he walks past Spikiri who is here to see Dumile and punches him in the gut. They ruffle for a while before hospital staff separates them. Spikiri won't stop bragging that Dumile chose him over Mnqobi (a case of polyandry in a polygamous marriage or just plain adultery?). Will Dumile officially leave Mnqobi or will Spikiri continue to be a side dish? Or will he die?

Mnqobi goes to see a cousin of his and asks him to provide a permanent solution to his problem with Spikiri. The same cousin also suggests killing Thembi too. When Mnqobi visits Thembi in jail to make his proposal which involves getting her out of jail by giving her money to run off and start over to avoid trial, she acts very cheeky. She has her feet on the table and makes silly remarks in between conversation. She refuses Mnqobi's offer saying she wont run off and wants people to know about what he did; but quickly changes her mind as soon as Mnqobi tries to leave. I guess Thembi is still very greedy but for a revengeful person like her, it is surprising that she would now choose money over seeing Mnqobi going under completely. However, I guess she would easily choose a comfortable life over jail any day. And is Mnqobi so desperate that he would opt to get into bed with the devil just like that? After his talk with his cousin, I highly doubt that the cushy life which he has promised Thembi is truly the plan. It could be a way to lure her to a convenient place to kill her.

Dumile gives her statement to the police and lies on Mnqobi's behalf, saying Thembi shot her. However, she does all this to make sure that Thembi is charged and locked away. I am just too afraid though that she could be digging herself into the ground. She could find herself tangled up in Mnqobi's web of lies and deception with no place to turn to. And will Dumile be played out as an unknowing accomplice or will Mnqobi be forced to let her in on his plans at some point? Will she be able to get out of it all or will it be too late by then?

When Vuyo Vilakazi comes back to see Thembi, he counts her charges to her in attempt to let he know why he will not defend her. His return is only a chance for Thembi to convince him otherwise. Nomzamo gives her most vulnerable yet deceitful performance yet (even though we are used to her lies, this has been the most over the top performance). She spins him the story about being abused by her uncle who trained her from pre-teenagehood to grow up and seek revenge from the Simelanes (yep, that is the domestic abuse angle). She manipulates Vilakazi into sympathizing with her. She bites on her nails and behaves in a rather disturbing manner. It made me question whether she was really disturbed or was it still an act? There is a lot of close ups from the director and for the first time, we really get introduced to Thembi who is quite different from Khwezi. She is less glamorous and more humble in her manner but much more conniving in a subtle yet strong impact. Even though she is in jail and her look is downgraded, something tells me that she is more of herself now, not just in character but even in appearance. Thembi is more of a rural or location girl than a suburban snob.

In the last scene Mnqobi is drunk and goes to Palesa's workplace. He acts like a complete fool and invites her for a drink. Palesa handles this as professionally as possible but let's him know that he should never show up there in this state. I ask myself why in the world anyone would get drunk and then show up at their prosecutor's office? A prosecutor they had just met. And not to even talk about the case but to "drunk chat" them up. Will this have any effect on the ongoing storyline or was it only just a filler scene by the writers? (that would be totally weird).

It is obvious that "Umlilo" has brought even more fire this season. I like how they didn't strip Khwezi/Thembi down but let her remain vindictive, devious and powerful still (most TV characters go to jail and immediately lose value). I cannot wait to see how Dumile fits into Mnqobi's plans and how Andile's character matures. It will also be an absolute thrill to watch Khanyi Mbau grow into Palesa Thlali's character. She has really proven to be quite a strong actress in her latest projects.

What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedDlamini

TV REVIEW: Partners In Crime S01E02

The last episode ended with Tuppence and Tommy disguised as undercover agents, trying to uncover the mysterious disappearance of one Jane Finn. Tommy had found his way into a criminal hide out in Soho where he slyly inserted himself as part of Mr. Brown's group of associates. He was about to get in trouble after they got suspicious of him right before the credits rolled, leaving us with a cliff hanger, while Tuppence staged herself as a secretary/maid for Rita, an opera singer also thought to be part of the crime.

See a recap of episode one here.

In episode 2, Tommy is still at the Soho basement, where he has managed to fool Mr. Brown's associates into thinking that he is Drennan, a money man they had been expecting. While this saves Tommy from getting his feathers ruffled up, he is totally out of his comfort zone. Not only is he in the mist of dangerous thugs, he is in the most dodgy place in town. He is nervous and keeps acting awkward (as awkward of a human being as he already is). He is definitely having difficulty keeping up with this pretense, making us nervous for him; he might just blow his own cover. It also proves how gullible these criminals are for even believing that Tommy could be in any way one of their kind. However, even as incompetent as Tommy is in his disguise, David Williams does a great job at portraying this characterization.

Meanwhile, Tuppence and her blonde wig are having the time of their life in this new found mission. It is as if Tuppence has finally answered to her true calling (at least that's how she feels) and she is like a little child on first day of school, ready to take in as much as she can while giving it her all. Her "madam" receives a mysterious package from Mr Brown, which further confirms Tuppence's suspicions about her. However, Rita locks this parcel away and Tuppence cannot get her hands on it to see what it is.

To keep their charade going and hopefully get all the information they need, the couple stalk the real Drennan into an old English bar and spike his drink, buying enough time to go back undercover. This is despite an order from Tommy’s Uncle, Carter, not to. The two are now obviously knee-deep into this mission and it seems to give them a certain high of adrenaline rush. They are like addicts who must have their next fix, no matter what. When they start disobeying Carter like this and going against his wishes, that's how we know that it will be a long season of breaking rules and boundaries for this once typical British middle class pair.

The 1950s still create a backdrop for the show and we still get to experience the glamour of the post world war era (even low class in the 50s still had class!). So I still get to drool over the style,fashion and production design.

Back in their disguises, Tommy is caught snooping around the basement room looking for Jane. Tuppence's cover is also blown. This might have been the greatest call from the writers as things were starting to look a little too smooth and convenient. It just would have been impractical for Tommy and Tuppence to go in and out of the Soho and Rita's place, pretending (poorly so even) to be people they are not, and never get caught. Just like the last episode, this episode is also quite slow and it is only in this part which is towards the end that things pick up speed. This makes you wonder if this is the pattern that "Partners In Crime" might present till the end of the season; a slow start and explosive ending with a cliff hanger.

Tuppence manages to make a run for it, and escapes through a window into a drainpipe while Tommy is placed on a chair with a noose around his neck. Will Tuppence get to him in time or will the chair underneath Tommy's feet get kicked away before he could ever get help?

"Partners In Crime" airs every Sundays on BBC First at 8pm.

EDITORIAL: The Best Moments of the SAFTAS 2016

The biggest night in South African film and television took place last night at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg and where the best of South African film and television talent was honored with the golden horn. While it was the winners that may might have made headlines, it is a few filler yet memorable moments that made the event a thrill to watch. From tear jerking speeches to funny stage comments, here is a look at the best moments of the SAFTAS 2016:

"I'd like to thank the executive producer of my life, thank you Lord", that's how Nthati Moshesh opened up her heart warming speech after winning for best actress in a lead role - TV drama. I swear I could feel a little lump build up in my throat at some point as she delivered the most touching acceptance (okay, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit). We absolutely loved how she was obviously proud of her win yet still very humble about it. She thanked her parents whom she knew were watching over her and with all her experience it was amazing to watch her being acknowledged for her work. Her moment on stage was quite emotional.

Fulu Mugovhani is the most adorable winner I have ever seen. She took home her first Golden Horn for best lead actress in a feature film. She was so excited, she didn't know what to do with herself. It was really cute watching her stumble all over her words, not knowing what to say, yet having so much to say at the same time. She also thanked her best friend, which I thought was a very beautiful gesture.

No one can forget the hilarious speech by Nomhle Nkonyeni who was honored with a life achievement award. She immediately made it clear that just because she has been given a life achievement, it certainly didn't mean she was about to die. The living legend let everyone know that she was a long way from death, much to the laughter of the entire audience.

The performance put together by the hosts, Katlego Maboe and Minnie Dlamini, as well as various TV soap stars was one of my favorite things to watch during the show. They turned the stage into a living room where Katlego watched his favorite shows and acted like a total groupie as each star joined him on stage. He asked his cohost to go and make him coffee and she came back without the coffee but an explaination that goes, "I made the things that made the coffee not to be done". It reminded me a lot of Broadway. It was fun and entertaining to watch. The musical instrument players also did a splendid job in rendering the soundtracks from the different TV shows. I really enjoyed watching this...and laughed a lot too.

RED CARPET: SAFTAS 2016 Best Dressed

The 10th Annual SAFTAS definitely saw more activity on the red carpet compared to previous years, but the fashion was on an all time low of the entire awards season. I was disappointed by the large numbers of casual looks (some people looked like the were there for a friend's house party) and the church outfits. I also did not like the short dresses. The SAFTAS are the equivalent of the Oscars in South Africa and this sub par fashion standard on the red carpet should not be acceptable. We need more designer, more style, and definitely more red carpet culture.

However, there were a few that managed to get it right and here are my best looks from the SAFTAS 2016 red carpet:

I love love love this dress!!! Entertainment writer/blogger Lelo B totally nailed it out of the park with this one. I love the color, I love the design, I love the way it fits on her body. It is fun, chic and classy. I also like how it is a modern classic yet still eccentric design. It's not very often that we see such style on African red carpet, and I was happy to see this!

It may not be the dress she had on for red carpet arrival, bit this was my favorite look by the Queen B. I love the ball gown design of the dress; and ladies & gentlemen, this is not just your usual typical solid black. The contrast of the material mixture creates a beautiful blend. It accentuated her waist and gave her a gorgeous pear shape look. I also love how the dress is both hard and soft at the same time. Bonang Matheba looked like a princess with edge!

I am not too crazy about the gold color but I absolutely love the design of this ensemble worn by Minnie Dlamini. I like how it flows to the floor, giving off a very sexy, feminine look and yet the hard embroidered top gives it some edge. The slit...the toned legs...my God!!! (I think I'm having heart pulpatations). This Zulu lady looked like an Egyptian goodness last night.

When Maps Maponyane shows up, he shows dapper. And this time around, he certainly did not disappoint. He looked hot, he looked sexy and he looked stylish. By now you all should know how I am not so crazy about the traditional black on the red carpet for men, and this grey just looked amazing on Maps. I wish he had on different shoes in swede or matte, but otherwise, he looked like a perfect gentleman.

My last favorite look has to be by Thando Thabethe. Her mermaid ensemble was beautiful and classic. I love the contrast of the blue and black. I am not too sure about peplum in this day and age (it has definitely worn out of my system), but she looked great. I also like the hard embroidery on the top but I wish the shoulder pads were more fitted. 

TV REVIEW: SAFTAS 2016 Live Broadcast

The biggest night in South African film and television took place last night in Johannesburg and all the stars came in numbers to attend the ceremony. The awards which celebrate the best of South African film and television talent were broadcast live on SABC 2 and hosted by the gorgeous Minnie Dlamini and Katlego Maboe (who was also nominated twice in the best presenter category).

I will admit right from the start that I was actually very impressed by the live broadcast. It was beautifully produced and properly executed. The lighting was just right; even though the audience section was dimmed a bit to allow the stage to be brighter, they made sure to brighten things up whenever a winner was making their way to stage. The was never a moment when I complained that I couldn't see something or someone clearly. All proceedings on stage were also very visible and it was just such a breeze to watch the whole event. The same went for the sound. It was absolutely clear, and all speeches, presentations and performances were clearly projected. The graphics were also very beautifully designed and displayed. Even going through the nominees was a refreshing experience. Everything was clear and colorful yet professionally portrayed. Not to throw any shade, but it showed that the broadcast was a product of the motion picture industry and not music (yes, I said it!).

However, I was not a fan of the chosen sound tracks for the background sound. The music sounded like something that would play at a soldier's funeral. It was very traumatizing and depressing. I understand that they might have been looking for a modern traditional sound, but something a bit "happy" and less dull would have been nicer. The opening sequence was also very dark and gloomy. You would have thought that a documentary about apartheid wars was being introduced. The same depressing music was played in the introduction and although clips from various local productions accompanied the sequence, the color grading and temperature gave it all a rather cold feel.

The hosts did a splendid job, though it was exactly what we expected of them. They are two of the best in the industry and they once again proved why. It was great to see Katlego deliver amazingly as host then go on to win best presenter. None of us even questioned how it happened. It was well deserved. He was very vibrant and fun to watch. He brought certain charisma and charm to the show, which totally made up for all the funny that a comedian host might have had (most award ceremonies are hosted by comedians lately). I even had absolutely no idea that the young gentleman was a great singer, yet when he busted onto stage in performance with JSomething and Fifi Cooper, I was immediately a fan. We have seen hosts introduce themselves through music performance before, but it is usually the ones that cannot even hold a note and the whole thing is meant as a parody to make audiences laugh. Not with Katlego. He slayed real good on that stage last night. Minnie on the other hand was a bit subtle in her deliverance (she certainly did not sing for us). She kept things at a minimal (except her numerous wardrobe changes) and had a particular manner of professionalism. Maybe we would have loved to see her loosen up just a tiny-insy-winsy-bit. However, there were a few moments where she would casually join Katlego for the party like during their on-stage living room chill out with the stars (which I absolutely enjoyed. It reminded me of Broadway).

The awards presenters were not really anything to write home about, but they I guess they carried out their duties just right...no wait!...except for Pro Verb and his partner, Candice Abrahams. I don't know what happened there. Did Pro Verb really miss his lines or was it all a really bad joke. I wasn't too sure if I should laugh or cringe. Then there was that festival founder who was awarded a special achievement award and went on and on in his speech. I thought these kind of winners were told before hand of their awards, yet he seemed to be unprepared and free styled his speech. And why wasn't he told about the time limit? It was embarrassing to watch him end his speech halfway like that.

Paring the "In Memoriam" segment with that performance by Shekhinah might not have been the best idea. Don't get me wrong, the lady had a magnificent voice, she rendered her performance beautifully and it was the right song; but with the display on screen, herself singing on the mic and the extras sitting on stage, we weren't too sure where to look. We wanted to watch her, we wanted to see her supporting cast and we also wanted to view the memoriam on screen. Too much going on for a moment like that one.

I also didn't approve of the way Zama Mkosi and Mmabatho Ramagoshi's speeches were edited. That green screen edit just looked tacky and poorly done. Even worse when they kept zooming them in for a close up and the out for a medium shot, they looked like the were floating somehow. Mmabatho was wearing an orange ensemble that seemed to be drowning into the orange-ish back drop. Totally poor quality!

Overall, I would say that even with all the criticism facing the SAFTAS in their judging process (like how did Rhythm City win over Isibaya and Ashes To Ashes), they definitely did a great job putting together the show.

TV REVIEW: House of Cards S04E02

Oh hail Elizabeth Hale!!! Yes, you heard that right folks! Move over Claire Underwood, there's a new sheriff in town. If you thought Claire was the ultimate ice-queen, wait until you see her mother in action. We are used to Claire and Frank being the center of attention (they are the main characters after all); either causing drama between themselves or fending off chaos caused by other people, but they always do it with such calmness and emotional detach-ness (the Underwoods are the most dead people you will ever meet). Not Elizabeth! Elizabeth will speak her mind and do as she pleases, and it is all with so much life (ironic for a dying person), zeal and emotion. This is mostly emphasized when she argues with Claire who needs to have 1.5 million at her disposal, and threatens to sell their house from under Elizabeth's name if she doesn't give her the money. Elizabeth pretty much proclaims that it is her money and Claire has no right; and in her frustration she rips off the turban on her head, exposing her complete hair loss from her cancer illnesses.

See my review of episode 1 here.

It seems as if the women will be the most interesting to watch this season (taking a bit of the attention from Frank) as they keep bickering and purposely defying each other. Elizabeth is on the phone with Claire before the State of the Union address while also taking her chemotherapy. She advises her not to wear ivory and that is exactly what Claire goes and wears. We are not sure if she does this just to spite the old woman or she is fighting her own insecurities about not wanting to feel controlled.

Then after promising Claire that he would keep away from her campaign business, Frank does the very opposite (just as I had assumed in my review of episode 1). During his State of the Union address speech, he pledges to support Doris' clinic and announces Celia’s succession to her mother’s candidacy. This is the most public way for Frank to declare that he does not support Claire's plan to campaign for office and it might as well be the most humiliating way to do it too. I am a little shocked when Claire still stands up to applauds (unwillingly so), but then again, she has never been one to let her emotions get the better of her. She even pretends to be going along with Franks plans when she agrees to his suggestion that she should not campaign this season but run for office in the next election cycle instead. However, it is quite clear that this isn't over but only just the beginning. Claire is not going to take this lying down. Frank might as well have declared war, and he knows this; he mentions it in his first yet on camera monologue this season. It has also become even more clearer that the idea of his wife in a position of power might scare Frank.

When Clair left Frank, you might have thought that she was obviously fed up with the kind of man that he is and even though she might not completely hate him, she is not his biggest fan either. However, it seems that all the years that she has spent with him might have had a few of his characteristics rub off on her. She acquires some leverage by hiring a photographer to document Jackie's affair with Remy in attempt to sway her to agree to come out in support of Doris Jones’s breast cancer clinic. This is definitely a tactic that Frank would use, and while Claire has always gone along with his plans or even assisted a little, it is quite amusing to watch her play dirty all on her own capacity.

The Russians are causing trouble again. I say again because you will remember that we went through a similar situation in season 3. The interesting fact though is that it was Claire that was able to help the president repair burned bridges and even mentions it in his State of the Union address. What will he do now that he doesn't have Claire in his corner to assist him again or will Claire use this as bait to push her own agenda? Frank is not waiting until he has a solid solution though; he is using what he has at this very moment. He hides Igor Milkin, who is being hunted by Russia's Petrov, in a safe location to used him against the Russians as he pleases. But Petrov has threatened to hike energy prices, so could this land Underwood in trouble with the Americans for not just letting Milkin go?

What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedoDlamini

TV REVIEW: House of Cards S04E01

The 4th season premiere of the series throws us right in the mist of primary elections. This is very ironical because the show comes right at the very time when the US in going though the exact period (even though the drama portrayed on the show seem to have nothing on the reality of the current elections situation). You will remember that Claire left Frank at the end of season 3, so my immediate worry as this season starts is how will Frank ever survive the elections. Yes, Underwood has always been a resourceful man who is full of tricks; but it is no mystery that Claire's influence and support has also been a huge factor that propelled him to gaining most of his success and achievements.

We are definitely not the only ones that this is taking a toll on as Frank projects a rather aggressive and short tempered personality. He rages about the pronunciation of words and has a nightmare about strangling Claire. He is certainly no longer the calm, confident and self-assured man that he is when Claire is around. But Claire has not just gone and hid herself under a rock or sitting at a corner somewhere being useless which obviously confirms what we have known about Claire, this fierce woman is not one to go down quite easily. Her position as a United Nations ambassador being stripped away in season 3, did not discourage her at all. She plans to run for Congress in Texas' 30th District. This, however, does not come without challenges as Doris Jones, the retiring congresswoman, plans to hand over the seat to her daughter, Celia. Doris is played by the daring and legendary Cicely Tyson who does an incredible job portraying the character. She doesn't seem like one who will just take anything that is thrown at her without serious inspection, though she also seems like a woman that keeps an open mind. You would think that backing her own daughter in the campaign should be a given, but maybe Claire might just manage to sway her.

As usual, Claire knows that she needs Frank in pushing for her own goals and Frank knows that he needs Claire. It has been long clear to viewers that the marriage between these two was more transactional rather than based on love. They decide to get back together and present a united front, dismissing any rumors about their separation. Frank has agreed not to meddle in her running for congress (although knowing Frank, we know how this promise was broken before it was even ever made) and she has agreed to be the supportive wife she has always been and applaud him during his State of the Union address. They explain their marriage problems away by saying that Claire was in Texas to be with her mother who is sick with cancer (the cancer part is true, although it's also just the perfect excuse for Frank to spin a PR plan out of this mess as he would in most situations).

You know what they say about the last kick of a dying horse? (Yes, that!) It is exactly how I could describe Claire's mother's actions right now. For someone that is battling terminal cancer, you would expect her to keep away from any drama, yet she seems to be right there at the fore front (on driver's seat even). She tells her daughter that, “You’re stronger than he is, but you’ve got to put him in his place.” We already know where Claire gets her feistiness. At this point of the series, we know better not to invest in the Underwood's marriage based on emotions, but most of us want them to remain together because that is when they are at their strongest. However, it wou also be interesting to watch Claire finally challenging Frank's power instead of being the supportive wife that is always ready to push him to power. If there is anyone that can put Frank in his place, it is Claire.

Remember Lucas Goodman? The guy that was sentenced to ten years in season 2 for cyber terrorism. He is back and has gotten an early release by becoming a federal informant. He changed his name to John Carlisle and this all gives me the idea that he may not be too confident to carryout his assigned duty. He seems like someone that knows what Frank is capable of and is afraid of going against him. Could any of this also unveil details about Peter Ruso and Zoe? It looks to me like we might see the president soon battle with some skeletons from the past.

What are your thoughts? Comment below or tweet me @NoncedoDlamini

FILM REVIEW: 13 Hours - Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

I went into the theatre knowing absolutely nothing about the secret soldiers of Benghazi story or Mitchell Zuckoff 's book, "13 Hours"; I came out having a bit of an idea, but not really an entire understanding of what happened in Benghazi. The film sort of gives us an outline of what happened but doesn't really delve deep into the whole story of why certain things happened or why they happened the way they happened. Most great biographical movies will normally go beyond just narrating the story and give us an inside look into who the characters really were; their personalities, their thoughts and way of reasoning as well as their feelings and emotions. "13 Hours" totally missed the mark, so we never get to know who the secret soldiers of Benghazi were or who they are beyond their scope of work. So if you are looking for an honest look at the lives of these heroic men, this might not be the best place to turn to. However, if it is engrossing and gripping action thriller you want to see, then "13 Hours" is probably your best bet.

Jack Da Silva (John Krasinski), a former Navy SEAL, arrives in Benghazi to join the Global Response Staff as a private consultant on the security of a CIA outpost referred to as "The Annex". He is picked up by his personal friend Tyrone "Rone" Woods (James Badge Dale), who is also a member of the team. Arriving at the Annex, Jack is introduced to the rest of the team, including chief Bob (David

Costabile). Benghazi, Lybia has been named one of the most dangerous places in the world and most countries have pulled their embassies out of the country but the US keeps a diplomatic compound in the city.

When the US ambassador to Lybia, J. Christopher Stevens, arrives on diplomatic duties; he insists on staying at compound despite limited security. In the end, this makes you wonder if it is okay to feel the urge to blame him a little for the chaos that followed. That if maybe he had listened to warnings from Rone and Jack and their team about the security issue, the attacks that took place wouldn't have happened. But then again, why does the US insist on keeping representative in such a non-safe place? See, at least even with all the short comings by the film, at least it makes you think and form some kind of opinion (but we don't want to get too political now). 

On the morning of the 11th is September, the Stevens notices suspicious activity by strange men in the compound and informs his security personnel. Meanwhile, back at the Annex, the GRS team communicates with their loved ones whom they left back in their home country via Skype sessions. It is the only scene that ever gives a us at least a skeleton look into the gentlemen's lives. We get to see that some have wives and children, and Jacks finds out that his wife is pregnant. Now we have this one detail to encourage us to hold thumbs and hope that whatever happens, he gets out alive and goes back to his family and unborn child. The rest of the team is pretty much still strangers to us. Besides their military service, it is hard to form a connection with their characters.

That night, the compound is attacked. Stevens together with officer Sean Smith are taken into the safe room. Failing to bridge the safe room, the attackers then set the building on fire in attempt to get the ambassador out. Seeing what is happening at the compound, the GRS staff want to go and assist but is told to stand down. After several times being given this order, they decide to defy it and head to the compound. I guess we could already say that these soldiers were very noble and brave men that possessed the spirit of heroism in them. They fend off several attackers and manage to make their way in. However, the are not able to find Stevens and Smith has died from smoke inhalation. They decide to retreat back to the Annex and unfortunately they are followed. This unleashes a series of attacks on the Annex. During this gritty war, Rone and Glen Doherty (a GRS officer who had flown in to assist) are killed; and eventually, reinforcements arrive to help defeat the attackers. Stevens was found behind the compound, dead from smoke inhalation.

The film is a thick fog of war filled with gun shots, explosions and military code "call-outs". It is charged with all sorts of technical filmmaking tactics such as bird view shots (drone shots). At some point it can feel like a super charged videos game, but no one wants to be watching a video game instead of playing; therefore finding your self drifting off in the middle of a screening should not be so uncommon. However, that just makes it a huge tragedy because a biographical film like this one is meant to engage you emotionally and really make you feel connected to the story or even characters.

It is only in the end when the bodies of the fallen soldiers and ambassador wait to be transported back home that you really get to feel something, but only then it is too late so the emotions don't quite linger around for much.