Umjolo - Day Ones (Netflix) Story, Review, Trailer, Release Date, Songs, Cast 2024 -

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Umjolo – Day Ones (Netflix) Story :-

Here’s our review of Umjolo: Day Ones, the second film in the South African rom-com anthology on Netflix. The plot follows two lifelong best friends whose bond is strained when one feels like a third wheel after the other gets married and starts a family. Things take a turn for the worse after a wild night, creating even more complications for the pair.

Umjolo – Day Ones (Netflix) Release Date, Trailor, Songs, Cast :-

Release Date	20 December 2024
Language	English
Genre	Romance, Comedy
Duration	1h 26min
Cast	Sbusisiwe Jili, Khumbulani Kay Sibiya, Trix Vivier, and Menzi Biyela
Director	Fikile Mogodi
Producer	Jada Thwala
Production	Christiaan Ho-Tong
Certificate	16+

Umjolo – Day Ones (Netflix) Review :-

The film follows best friends Zenele and Andile, who have been inseparable since childhood. However, Zenele starts to feel neglected when Andile gets married and has children, with his new family taking up the time they once shared. But things take an unexpected turn when their classmates provoke them into sharing a kiss during a reunion, sparking unfamiliar feelings between them. Will their friendship survive this new challenge?

The plot of this film is simple and enjoyable, but it also stands out as part of an anthology where women take charge of their own narratives, reacting in ways that defy stereotypes. Just as Lethu (the protagonist in the first film) chooses to end her toxic relationship, Zenele in this film proves she won’t run to Andile just because of his feelings.

Although she’s not entirely free from the chaos they create, Zenele demonstrates a character willing to own up to her mistakes and do whatever it takes to keep Andile’s family together. Unfortunately, it’s Andile who continues to sabotage things for himself and for Zenele. The film aligns perfectly with the anthology’s theme, and we’re pleased with the empowering actions of the women in these stories.

The characters in this film are well-developed, with a natural and captivating chemistry between them. The unexpected appearances of the narrator add a fun, lighthearted touch that further engages the audience. I particularly appreciated how realistic the plot felt, as it portrayed the genuine reactions of women in such complex situations.

The performances are excellent, with the inner turmoil of Zenele clearly portrayed, alongside the pain and shock experienced by Jessica (Andile’s wife). Both women truly shine throughout the film, as we witness the twist of fate brought on by Andile’s confusion. While I can understand Andile’s perspective to some extent—he is somewhat pushed toward Zenele by his family, which becomes the root of the conflict—it’s clear that, in the end, he is the one causing turmoil not just for his wife and friend, but also for Zenele’s boyfriend.

Umjolo – Day Ones (Netflix) Trailor :-

Lastly, I must mention the stunning cinematography, which not only showcases South African culture but also captures how the union of Andile and Jessica transforms lives. Their relationship is undeniably fragile, and the film effectively portrays the struggles they’ve faced before Andile creates further complications.

Final Thought

Umjolo: Day Ones is an enjoyable and lighthearted watch, though its plot can feel frustrating at times. While it’s definitely a one-time watch, it blends the right mix of elements to create an engaging rom-com. The film is certainly an improvement over the first installment in this anthology and makes for a solid viewing experience.