Reviews

Car review: Toyota Fortuner

Wed, 02 May 2012 14:15:50 +0100

Car review: Honda Ballade

Wed, 02 May 2012 13:50:35 +0100

Car Review: VW Jetta - The force is strong with this one!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:38:50 +0100

The Jetta is a slick looking and compact sedan that is VW pedigreed through and through. The front end is identical to that of the Polo, but the side profile is distinctly different. With smooth lines, which flow from back to the front, the car has a business sedan appearance. It has a low profile, which means that even though it has that distinguished business look to it; it has plenty of sportiness too. It’s not a massive car, so we had no trouble getting it in and out of tight parking spaces...

Book Review: "100 Years Of Struggle - Mandela's ANC" by Heidi Holland

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:28:30 +0100

What was your motivation to write the book?100 Years of Struggle - Mandela’s ANC was originally researched during the ’80s, when the ANC was banned in South Africa. As is the case with most of my books, my motive in writing it was to inform my own tribe – white southern Africans – about a subject that would affect their lives profoundly. In the book’s latest form, it offers readable, indeed entertaining, insights into our past. All of us with opinions about the ANC should be well-inform...

Movies from the Pan-African Film Festival 2012

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:12:06 +0100

LuckyDirector: Avie LuthraStarring: Sihle Dlamini, Jayashree Basavaraj, James Ngcobo and Vusi KuneneThe story is woven around a 10-year old boy who loses his mother to Aids. Lucky (Sihle Dlamini) makes a promise over his mother’s grave to make something of himself and leaves the security of his remote Zulu village for the big city of Durban. He arrives at the doorstep of an uncle (James Ngcobo) who is unloving and untrustworthy. After stealing the money meant for Lucky’s schooling, he kicks t...

DVD Review: Take Shelter

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:08:33 +0100

Take Shelter unfolds in the quiet Ohio countryside. Curtis LaForche (Michael Shannon) an all-around good guy is suddenly plagued by apocalyptic visions of a storm set to destroy everything he has, including his wife Samantha (Jessica Chastain) and six-year old deaf daughter, Hannah (Tova Stewart).As he questions whether the dreams and hallucinations are premonitions or if he is losing the plot, Curtis begins to investigate his family history of mental illness. He also distracts himself by equippi...

DVD Review: Restless

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:02:48 +0100

Enoch Brae (Henry Hopper) is an angry and depressed young man after the death of his parents and feeds his morbid fascination by gate-crashing people’s funerals. It’s at a funeral that he meets Annabel Cotton (Mia Wasikowska) - a beautiful terminally ill young woman. The two outsiders soon find an unexpected common ground in their unique experiences of the world. Eccentric misfits, Enoch’s best friend is the ghost of a Kamikaze fighter pilot who died in World War II. Annabel is wise and chi...

Music Review: Celebrating Khadja Nin

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:54:42 +0100

Born and raised in Burundi, Africa in a family of eight children, Khadja, by the age of seven had already discovered her voice and love of singing; she was a lead vocalist of a choir in her town of Bujumbura. When she turned 16 she left home for Zaire and was married at 17. Though music was in her heart she had no aspirations to pursue a musical career and settled down to a life of managing lodges for tourists. A move to Europe with her new family turned her life upside down but also gave her the...

Restaurant review: Parc Ferme, Sandton

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:28:32 +0100

Sandton spoils us for choice with high-end dining choices. Parc Fermé delivers this to us with both formal and less formal options;The combination of location, decor, service and fare all collaborate toward delivering a “come back for more” experience, so we hope. Parc Fermé, situated in the very heart of Sandton’s metropolis on Maude Street, opposite the convention centre and lying within the Legacy Hotels building, certainly scores big when it comes to location. With its corner position...

Restaurant review: Rambling Vines - Mount Grace country house and spa, Magaliesburg

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:17:51 +0100

Rambling Vines is an apt name, as from the parking lot you need to take a stroll across a courtyard and a turn here and there, to come to the entrance. Two wrought-iron candelabra standing at near head height flank the welcome table. By its own description, the restaurant is a “fusion of contemporary luxury and classic charm”, and with its mixture of “old world” hanging brass lanterns, mirrors and vases, the décor is both elegant and casually country.We waited for our table...

Car review: Renault Clio Sport Gordini - The pocket rocket

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:07:02 +0100

. Each Gordini is numbered, so you know you are part of something special, and the interior is tailored like a fine suit. The blue, white and black stitched leather interior balances sporty good looks with elegant French flair. It is the contrasts that make the Gordini such a stand-out model for us. The seats, although padded and stitched with fine leather, are still somewhat uncomfortable if you find yourself stuck in traffic for more than a couple of hours. The Gordini comes in a beautiful b...

Car review: Subaru Legacy - Forget the Germans

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:02:44 +0100

When you think Subaru, you think 4x4 or rally, and that is not completely off course. The Forester is one of the most lauded 4x4s on the market, and the Impreza WRX STi has garnered praise and a loyal following because of its exploits in the World Rally Championship. The Legacy is a combination of on-road sportiness and business class comfort. The 2.5 litre engine on the model we had packed a 195kW punch, which means that getting from zero to 100km/h takes a short 6.2 seconds, and with 350Nm of t...

Car review: BMW 1 series - A seriously hot hatch

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:58:05 +0100

The 1 Series’s great BMW pedigree is obvious at first glance. The first version was a standalone experiment, and BMW were playing on a field on which they had no prior experience. But they’ve learnt through the years. The new 1 Series has all the features that made the old 1 Series so popular, but they’ve now taken the best of the other BMW series and added it to the baby in the family. At a recent launch we were given a full day to experience and test the 1 Series in both an ...

Movie Review: Shame

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:48:04 +0100

When Brandon’s routine becomes horribly disrupted by Sissy’s imposition on his Manhattan lifestyle, his insular life spirals out of control, and her dependency provokes Brandon to violent displays of temper. This intense character study boasts powerful performances by Fassbender and Mulligan. The actors manage to take viewers on a powerful plunge into the mania and self-destructive nature of sexual addiction. Shame is a raw portrait of damaged siblings and sex addiction. Sad,...

Movie Review: We need to talk about Kevin

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:41:46 +0100

The cracks in her marriage to husband Franklin (John C. Reilly) begin to show as Eva must now abandon her career and apartment she loves for a child she hates. As Kevin (the boy is played by Jasper Newell and the teenager by a creepy Ezra Miller) grows up, he becomes more difficult to handle and expresses a mysterious hatred for his mother. Things become even worse when his younger sister (Ashley Gerasimovich) arrives. The teenager then commits an unspeakable crime that leaves Eva ...

Movie Review: My week with Marilyn

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:26:14 +0100

While they were shooting the movie, Marilyn’s marriage to Arthur Miller (Dougray Scott) was on the rocks, and Olivier was becoming increasingly frustrated with her tardiness and sub-standard acting abilities. Cue Clark, who stepped into an emotionally volatile situation to become Marilyn’s closest confidant on set. They spent an intimate week together in the English countryside, and an unlikely friendship unfolded between the movie-mad assistant and one of the most famous women ...

DVD Review: The next three days

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:12:23 +0100

Feeling the justice system has failed her, Lara tries to commit suicide, and John becomes determined to save his wife. He becomes obsessed with the idea of breaking her out of jail and seeks the advice of ex-convict Damon Pennington (Liam Neeson), who staged his own daring prison break. John tirelessly researches and stakes out the routines of the prison as he prepares to put his life on the line for the woman he loves. Lara’s innocence is questioned throughout the ...

DVD Review: Sanctum 3D

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:09:54 +0100

A violent flash flood blocks the team’s only exit and gives them no choice but to bury themselves deeper into the cave in the hope of escaping through uncharted routes. Can they survive an underwater labyrinth of raging water, dangerous terrain and mounting panic? Exotic locations off the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia inspired some great cinematography, which includes 3D digital techniques. Although it is not always comfortable to watch, the breathless quest a...

DVD Review: Life in a day

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:59:49 +0100

The film is ultimately about human connection and affirms the simple joys and sorrows that we experience as human beings. A true mosaic of just one day reveals life at its rawest – thrilling, funny, sad, breathtaking and mundane all at the same time! The mishmash of highly personal, inane, and fascinating clips include, among many, a skydiver freefalling, a young man coming out to his family, a globetrotting Korean man travelling the world by bicycle, an elderly couple having thei...

Culinary Culture: Food of Love

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:49:22 +0100

So in the spirit of good sexual health, we present to you our saucy salmon on a sultry bed of three libido boosting ingredients including: avocado, celery and almonds (amongst others). Saucy SalmonMarinade: 1 tablespoon honey 2 teaspoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon olive oil 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 4 salmon fillets (about 3cm thick) Cooking spray The salsa bed:1/2 cup peeled and diced avocado1/2 cup diced celery1/2 cup peeled and diced canned peaches / fresh ...

An Evening with Simphiwe Dana – Live in Concert

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:14:54 +0100

In her latest double-CD offering, An Evening with Simphiwe Dana – Live in Concert, she gets up close and personal with her audience. Backed by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and the Miagi Youth Orchestra she takes you on a soul-stimulating melodic ride by performing, amongst others, firm favourites such as Ndiredi and Bantu Biko Street. She also throws in treasured classics such as Miriam Makeba’s Meadowlands and Angelique Kidjo’s Malaika. If you are desperate for respite from the...

Book review: Morgan Tsvangirai - at the deep end

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:06:56 +0100

Tsvangirai’s book, At the Deep End (ghost written by William Bango and published by Penguin Books) begins with a rather detailed and extensive history of the man himself – starting from his birth in rural Gutu and ending in the power-sharing period of Zimbabwe’s transformation, post-independence. It also offers an equally detailed history of Zimbabwe, the transition from Southern Rhodesia to present-day co-governed Zimbabwe. While the history lesson is the unofficial and seemingly truthful ...

Restaurant Review: Marion on Nicol

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:09:42 +0100

The kitchen is run by executive chef Michael Colling. The menu opens with a few words on its philosophy, “This menu can best be described as a combination of old classics with new innovations and techniques that are simple and honest.” Highlights from the starter menu include oysters served with gazpacho and caviar, beef consommé served with oxtail ravioli and herbs, a mushroom cappuccino, a vegetable tower (a must for our next visit), and a tomato and bocconcini dis...

Movie Review: Friends with benefits

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:40:40 +0100

Jamie is a headhunter who lures Dylan, an art director, to an interview for GQ magazine. She needs him to take the job to earn her bonus and so sweetens the deal by showing him around New York. The super-sexy young professionals both decide that an occasional quickie between friends is the perfect pick-me-up. Don’t allow your low expectations of the film to keep you away. In fact, you may be pleasantly surprised with a few good laughs. If romcom is your favourite genre, then Fr...

Movie Review: The First Grader

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:38:52 +0100

Local parents of the already overcrowded school don’t want to waste a seat on the old man, but head teacher Jane Obinchu (Naomie Harris) is moved by his passionate plea and courageously supports his struggle. Together, they face fierce opposition from parents and officials and attract attention from the media. Maruge manages to make it into the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest primary-school pupil. The film moves between Maruge’s memories of the ...

Movie Review: The Help

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:37:07 +0100

Skeeter conducts a series of probing, in-depth interviews with the women who cook, clean and raise the babies of the wealthy families in the neighbourhood. After so many years of biting their tongues, Aibileen and her rebellious friend Minny grow excited by the opportunity of finally expressing themselves, as Skeeter encourages them to tell their life stories and unveil their secrets. The interviews begin with Aibileen (Viola Davis), who has raised 17 white children over ...

The Nissan Pathfinder – a bold statement

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:31:35 +0100

I recently drove the Nissan Pathfinder and had a whole week to put it through its paces. This is a big 4x4, both inside and out, meaning that the Pathfinder can take you, six friends and some luggage around town and the bush with maximum amount of comfort and space. Normally the Pathfinder comfortably accommodates five passengers, but I needed to ferry seven of us around town for the day, and with the flip of a few seats and switches, I was able to convert some unneeded boot space...

Lexus CT200h – blue with envy

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:29:35 +0100

The exterior of the CT200h instantly won me over. It is sleek, aggressive and sexy, which draws the attention of fellow motorists as you silently zip past them on the bustling city streets. The interior of the Lexus is that of multi-million rand car and boasts the best gadgets, finishes and extras you could ever hope to have. The little touches make all the difference; these include a leather dash, flip up and down navigation and a rocking entertainment system. It has cru...

Honda Accord – a cut above

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:27:54 +0100

The Accord boasts a host of fine specifications that put it in a class of its own. These fine features include dual-zone climate control, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory function and heated front seats with leather trim. It also has Bluetooth phone connectivity, six airbags, vehicle stability assistance, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist. The model I had, the 2.4l iVtec Exclusive, also has a USB...

Movie Review: A Better Life

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:09:00 +0100

Carlos buys into the American dream of running his own business, with a new truck, a client list and some gardening tools. But disaster strikes when the truck is hijacked. The massive blowback event exposes the strength of character required when dreams are destroyed. Featuring a mix of Spanish and English, this socially conscious film keeps it simple and understated. It’s ultimately about a father’s love, the meaning of family and the lengths a parent will go to to g...

Movie Review: Beautiful Boy

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:06:51 +0100

\Their emotionless 20-year marriage is on the brink of collapse when they receive the news. Now with their only child dead, they realise they only have each other as they struggle numbly through the funeral, the media onslaught, and the awkward pity from relatives and friends. The film’s greatest strength is the gripping performances by Bello and Sheen. Director: Shawn Ku Starring: Maria Bello, Martin Sheen and Kyle Gallner...

Movie review: Bridesmaids

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:03:26 +0100

As Annie stumbles through the expensive and bizarre bridal rituals, she is constantly upstaged by perfectly composed and mega-wealthy fellow bridesmaid Helen (Rose Byrne). In the meantime Annie’s personal life is rapidly unravelling. She loses her job, gets evicted from her apartment and is involved in an unfulfilling relationship with a self-absorbed and uncommitted man. Through the trials and tribulations of wedding planning friendships are made and broken. Ultimately...

‘Tis The Season To Drink Cocktails

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 07:41:39 +0100

Music: Zahara - "Loliwe"

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:03:11 +0100

Armed with her guitar and her hauntingly beautiful voice, Zahara serenades listeners with tracks such as Umthwalo and Loliwe, and one is left in no doubt at all of her talent. Many have likened her voice to the late great Brenda Fassie’s, and it’s easy to see why – just listen to Xa Bendingena Mama. The raw edge in her vocals is most definitively reminiscent of the amazing talent of South African music legends of bygone days. As with most singers, Zahara started her...

Music: Kabelo Mabalane "Immortal Vol. 1"

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:45:26 +0100

From Amapantsula Ajabulile featuring Professor to Novacaine with Danny K, Kabelo successfully manages to bring two different sides of the South African music industry together to produce magic. Sexy tracks on the album including Bouga Ngiyak’thanda and Like I Do featuring Lungi Naidoo will take listeners back to the much-loved “Bouga Luv” style without losing the edge of an artist who still has his finger on the pulse.

Book Review: "My Father, My Monster"

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:28:29 +0100

Seemingly abandoned by their parents, five-year-old MacIntosh and his little sister, Zinhle, were left in the care of his mother’s extremely impoverished family in rural KwaZulu-Natal. From this point on their lives became a hellish nightmare of poverty, mistreatment and bullying by the older children and brutal physical punishment by the adults. MacIntosh’s only hope and encouragement for his sister was that their mother would return and take them home to the happy life he re...

The Suzuki SX4 (Review)

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:44:06 +0100

The Subaru Forester S Edition (Review)

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:38:45 +0100

Afro Food: Yamato

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:57:34 +0100

The Volvo V 60: Practically perfect

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:54:53 +0100

Volvo’s new ethos is to produce something that is naughty but nice. The fabulous new range of S60s and V60s gave us a chance to see, feel and embrace a car that has come a long way to tackle a demanding market head-on. The V60 is a very practical car that has been built with the family in mind. It has generous amounts of space, both for passengers and luggage. The model we had was the V60 T6 all-wheel drive, with a six-cylinder 3.0 litre engine. While the space provides real co...

The Range Rover Sport - Big car, bigger delivery

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:50:58 +0100

The interior is nothing short of perfect, with the driver and all passengers given everything they might need and then a little more. The seats are made from the finest leather and are supremely comfortable. They are electronically adjustable with a memory setting, and the leather steering wheel has multifunction switches and cruise control that have been redesigned to give you maximum control over your environment. There is also climate control with an automatic air filtration system tha...

The BMW 520D - The WOW Factor

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:47:17 +0100

If you think the car’s exterior frame is large, you should see the interior. There is plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. It has all the comfort elements you would ever need including individual climate control for all four passengers, DVD entertainment in the back to amuse the kids on a long haul and automatically adjustable seats with a memory function, which means no matter who sits behind the wheel of your car, you can always slide back into your seat the way it was ...

Issue 24 Gadget Reviews

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:40:54 +0100

Click here to browse the gadgets reviewed in Issue 24 of The Afropolitan magazine.

Movie review: London Boulevard

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:08:54 +0100

Farrell gives an awesome performance in his role as a hard ruthless man with a desire for redemption, and the performance by Keira Knightley trades cleverly on her stardom. There are no surprises as the story plays out, and although the plot is predictable, it is surprisingly an enjoyable one to watch. Director: William MonahanStarring: Colin Farrell, Keira Knightley, Ray Winstone...

Movie review: The Perfect Host

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:06:06 +0100

When this pair of twisted characters finds themselves in the each other’s extraordinary company, things quickly get out of hand. The conman suddenly finds himself intoxicated by a cocktail of sedatives and alcohol. When he comes to, he is tied to a chair with his hands bound behind his back, forced to play witness to his dinner host’s mad schizophrenic visions and insidious dinner chatter. This dark comedy is offbeat, strange and slightly deranged but quite fun to wat...

Movie review: The Tree of Life

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:01:58 +0100

The film is an intimate observation of Jack’s typical 1950s Texan family – besides the stern, business-minded father, there’s a loving, compassionate mother (Jessica Chastain) and Jack’s two brothers –and the star-studded cast is able to offer viewers a palpable portrayal of the complex relationships between them. Acclaimed director and master storyteller Terrence Malick says, “The family – our first school – is the only place that most of us learn the truth about ...

Book review: Patchwork – Ellen Banda-Aaku

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:55:10 +0100

In the first half of her offering Banda-Aaku uses the setting of Pumpkin’s early life to raise serious issues without allowing them to distract from the story. The events are often shocking, but, told in a young girl’s voice, they do not take on any additional significance – they merely become part of the complex journey of growing up. Despite all that Pumpkin observes and learns about her father and his imperfections, she continues the live in awe of this fatally flawed man...

DVD Review: The Lincoln Lawyer

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:39:42 +0100

The sleazy lawyer is then hired to defend rich Beverly Hills playboy Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe), who stands accused of rape and attempted murder of a prostitute (Margarita Levieva). Mick believes he’s landed the case of a lifetime, but his client’s aim is for a foolproof plan to beat the system, and Mick soon suffers a crisis of conscience. As the movie plays out, events from the present turn out to be connected to the past, and so follow the twists and turns of a typical c...

DVD Review: Bobby Fischer Against The World

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:36:37 +0100

Fischer was raised in Brooklyn by a Jewish single mother whose communist leanings put her on the FBI’s list as a suspected spy. Often alone, Fischer taught himself to play chess at age six. In 1958, at age 14, he became the United States champion! In 1972, he beat reigning Soviet champ Boris Spassky for the world title – a match that dominated world headlines. Liz Garbus’s documentary explores the intellectual beauty of the game whilst at the same time exposing the ...

DVD Review: Water For Elephants

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:33:02 +0100

Jacob is put in charge of caring for the circus animals, and it is here that he meets Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), the beautiful blonde star of the equestrian act. Marlena is married to the charismatic but twisted animal trainer August (Christoph Waltz), and the seeds of an unexpected romance are sewn as Jacob and Marlena are drawn together by their love for a special elephant, Rosie. The magical moments of circus life are depicted charismatically by cinematographer Rodr...

CD Review: Vusi Khumalo - Reasons for seasons

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:29:53 +0100

Working with some of the finest artists in the industry today – including legendary percussionist Tlale Makehene, vocalists Zwai Bala, Barney Rachabane and RJ Benjamin – Vusi uses Reasons for Seasons to show his love for Jozi and his appreciation of culture. He also uses it to point out the city’s problems, so it’s in actual fact more than a jazz album. In his lyrics, which have a spiritual edge to them, Vusi puts forth controversial subjects in song and touches on multi-c...

CD Review: Nkulee Dube - My Way

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:04:59 +0100

Her strong soulful voice is rich with emotion that confirms that Nkulee is no stranger to the stage and to music. After all, she grew up as part of the background singers touring with Lucky Dube. Her talent stretches beyond the microphone as she herself has penned most of the tracks. A truly Afro-international offering, this album features collaborations with artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Germany and America. With such a convincing entrance to the scene as an artist no long...

Culinary Culture: A Shot of Delicious

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:46:07 +0100

Vodka Penne Chicken Ingredients: 500g uncooked penne pasta ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 250g chicken breast, sliced 4 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1 tin Italian plum tomatoes ¼ cup vodka 1 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper ½ cup full cream 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 tablespoons chopped parsley ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Pasta: bring lightly salted water to a boil. Remove from heat and sti...

Culinary Culture: Taking Centre Stage

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:59:21 +0100

Creamy Rice Pudding using Tastic Parboiled Rice A rich and irresistible favourite rice pudding from the Indian cuisine that can be served warm, at room temperature or chilled. Young and old will enjoy this dessert, which is also known as Kheer. Although very good with the fruit and nuts added, this dessert may also be served quite plain with a sprinkling of nuts and cinnamon. Ingredients 200g/250ml Tastic parboiled rice 750ml water 4 cardamom pods 2ml salt 1 x 380...

The Suzuki Jimny (Review)

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:38:39 +0100

Movie review: One Day

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:35:49 +0100

As they explore their separate journeys through life, they continue to share a deeply connected friendship that somehow outweighs all the loss, tears and turmoil of life with love, laughter and real understanding. The story is adapted from the bestselling novel by David Nicholls, who also wrote the screenplay. One Day takes viewers on an emotional journey that thankfully stays away from a predictable ending. Director: Lone ScherfigStarring: Anne Hathaway, Jim Sturgess...

Movie review: Beginners

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:30:43 +0100

His new love inspires a flood of memories of his father who came out of the closet at age 75 and following 44 years of marriage to his mother. Oliver remembers Hal’s honesty and the renewed spirit for life he felt after he came out and realises that the whole experience brought the two of them closer together. Following the death of his father, Oliver now endeavours to love Anna with the bravery, humour and hope that his father taught him. As he grapples with the meaning of life and lo...

The Renault Magnificent

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:21:05 +0100

Movie review: PAGE ONE - Inside the New York Times

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:01:11 +0100

Director Andrew Rossi followed journalists and ace staffers at the New York Times – such as David Carr, Brian Stelter, Bruce Headlam and Bill Keller – around for a year, gaining access to the inner workings of the newspaper in the process. Viewers get an up-close look at the vibrant cross-cubicle debates and collaborations and the competitive page-one pitching that still brings the New York Times to life every day. Director: Andrew RossiStarring: David Carr, Brian Stelter, Bruce Head...

The Top 5 Cars for Women on the Move

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:46:59 +0100

Afro-Wheels: VW Touareg - Bringing punch to the fight

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:17:39 +0100

The VW Touareg is simply a stunning car that merges the sleek sexy design of the latest Golf models into an SUV’s body to create a sporty-looking monster. Even for this segment the Touareg is a really large car though, and parking it is nearly impossible. Even with the aid of the park assist I often found myself straddling more than one parking bay unintentionally. Obstructions aside, the Touareg competes strongly in the luxury SUV market, which is dominated by some of ...

Afro Wheels: Lexus LS460 – Getting Comfort and Luxury Right

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:03:00 +0100

The exterior styling of the LS460 feels a little dated to me, and I would hasten to say it is not a massively attractive car from any angle outside, but the beauty of this Lexus is not what you can see, but what you can feel and experience. Lexus has a long way to go to compete in the looks department, but I think they set a supremely high standard in the comfort and luxury departments. Everything inside the LS 460 is beautiful – from the leather and wooden trim to the elegant ...

Restaurants: Fillet Signature Cut - The House of Mediterranean Fillets

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:48:20 +0100

The proprietors of Fillet Signature Cut bring to bear their Mediterranean heritage, a mix of Portugal and Lebanon, on the menu, but as the name of the restaurant states, and with the benefit of a night at their table, I can confidently report that the variety of offerings amount to an ode to that most celebrated cut of beef, the fillet.The space is open and uncluttered, with a split level providing a raised area in one corner. The two levels are separated by a wall, and a gas “coal” fire runs...

DVD Review: Exit Through the Gift Shop

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:37:41 +0100

There has been much debate over whether Exit Through the Gift Shop is a genuine documentary or a mockumentary. Either way, it’s greatly entertaining and offers viewers an up-close-and-personal look into the most infamous graffiti artists at work. The film is also a great exploration of what really constitutes art, and how mass consumerism strongly influences our creative freedom. Director: BanksyStarring: Banksy, Thierry Guetta and Space Invader...

DVD Reviews: The Illusionist

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:35:19 +0100

His passion for his trade takes him through Europe to perform in any place he can find – from small pubs to garden parties. It’s while performing in a country tavern in Scotland that he encounters Alice, an innocent young girl who’s completely blown away by his show. The awestruck Alice believes his tricks are real magic, and the two lonely strangers quickly bond. The Illusionist is a simple yet memorable tale that will leave you longing for the simple wonders life offers. Director: Sylvai...

DVD Review: Limitless

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:31:31 +0100

But as with all good drugs he soon realises the higher the climb, the harder the fall. Director Neil Burger shows great stylistic flair using impressive camera tricks and editing effects that allow the audience to see it all from Eddie’s drug-induced perspective. The plot takes a few decidedly silly and unexplored turns, but Limitless is certainly a mainstream movie that succeeds in offering viewers an original concept worth getting excited about. Director: Neil BurgerStarring: Bradley Cooper,...

Culinary Culture: All You Need Is Marinade!

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:30:57 +0100

Foreman’s search for a product that would allow him to cook his favourite foods without compromising his health had Russell Hobbs (formerly known as Salton) coming to the party. Foreman landed a super-lucrative endorsement deal with the home-appliance giant for his endorsement of the Lean Mean Fat Reducing Grilling Machine! And so Foreman and grilling became the latest trend in cooking.Today, it’s obvious that grilling is a less fattening way to cook as no oil is used in the cooking process, ...

CD Review: Judith Sephuma (I am a living testimony)

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:25:42 +0100

Like its predecessor, New Beginnings, produced by Lawrence Matshiza, earned her a coveted SAMA statuette in the highly contested Best Female Artist category and two more honours – proof of its great power and artistry. But it lacked the magic and enduring majesty of A Cry, A Smile, A Dance. As if to try and recapture the magic of her first album, Sephuma again teamed up with ex-husband Selaelo Selota, who produced her third album, Change Is Here (2008).With the exception of one or two radio fa...

CD Review: KB - Run Free (The Evolution)

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:15:17 +0100

Her inventive ability to fuse seemingly disparate idioms into highly entertaining music that is both suitable for partying up a storm and tranquil listening is one of her secrets for success. This album features dynamic music that exudes both raw and sophisticated energy. She performs with unparalleled passion and unrivalled vocal artistry. What also elevates this album to the class of an award-winner is the exciting manner in which she has tapped into the captivating Tswana rap made famous by...

CD Review: Liz Ogumbo

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:54:24 +0100

This 13-track album is an exhilarating sonic expression of the young Kenyan’s ethnic origins and eclectic influences. She tackles a variety of contemporary themes and concerns, including her experiences as a black model in a white-dominated industry. Playfully but passionately, she takes the listener on a soulful journey that is rooted in her rich Luo musical heritage and branches out to coastal Swahili traditions. She continues this exploratory sonic journey through R&B avenues, jazzy lan...

Noria Mabasa

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:48:33 +0100

But crafting kitchen utensils was not her destiny. Rather, she used clay as a medium of artistic expression – to carve colourful doll-like figurines inspired by dreams – images of rural women in traditional wear and men in Western attire to reflect their city experiences. In between these gender stereotypes she added to her colourful iconography another type: the Western woman – nurses, prostitutes, white females – who stands independent from tradition.But Mabasa demonstrated her reso...

Mmakgabo Mmapula Mmankgato Helen Sebidi

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:44:06 +0100

Sebidi’s early works are exuberant paintings that explore this traditional world; her rural scenes often show women completing their daily chores. Her art has since evolved into complex works characterised by fantastical and mythological images that tend to fuse opposites – the urban and the rural, men and women, and so on. Sebidi brings together these contrasting realities in what the author describes as “works of great visionary and prophetic power”. This is an informative portrait of o...

This Child will be Great – Memoirs of a Remarkable Life by Africa’s First Woman President

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:37:47 +0100

It marked a turning point in the troubled history of sub-Saharan Africa’s first independent country – once a vassal state of the USA and created as a home of the descendants of slaves who were shipped back to Africa in the 19th century. But since the year of independence – 1847 – Liberia has never known peace. Yet after 160 years of military coups, brutal assassinations and tyrannical regimes, it took Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s feminine but firm leadership to put Liberia on the road to pol...

The Subaru Forester (Review)

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:46:13 +0100

Afro Wheels: The Mini Cooper S convertible - My boyhood dream comes true

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:54:44 +0100

The huge speedometer set front and centre would seem out of place in a car that was any less retro than the Cooper, but here it is a perfect fit. The satellite navigation system and onboard entertainment console are cleverly placed inside the audacious speedometer, and the whole look and feel of the car screams classy but fun. The interior has wooden trim, cream leather and changeable mood lighting that makes sitting in the Mini worth sleeping in the Mini. The turbocharged Cooper S engine delive...

Afro Wheels: The Suzuki Grand Vitara - A grand let down

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:49:56 +0100

The fuel consumption was low, costing me nearly R1 per kilometre travelled on the road to and from Margate. The Grand Vitara is comfortable inside, with all necessary creature amenities, but the lack of delivery from under the bonnet means most of that goes unnoticed. The 4x4 is very capable. The car performs according to instructions and really can go just about anywhere.But on an all-round value-for-money, I wouldn’t rate the Grand Vitara as the grand prize winner. It is slightly too expensiv...

Afro Wheels: The Nissan X-Trail (Unearthing a big surprise)

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:44:21 +0100

So as a driver in the market for a large family vehicle with 4x4 capabilities, one is left with two choices – to purchase a “Sandton” 4x4 or a real off-road machine. The problem then comes down to what you are prepared to compromise. With a “Sandton” 4x4 you are guaranteed comfort, style and all the amenities that come with a five-star driving experience, but you will have to forgo the off-road side of things as the SUVs designed for that market are almost too pretty to take off road. W...

Gadget reviews - issue 22

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:41:21 +0100

HTC Sensation HTC is calling it a multimedia super-phone, and the Android-based Sensation looks to deliver on that promise, with a huge 4.3-inch touchscreen that begs to display rich media content. It has a built-in 8MP camera with a dual LED flash and auto-focus, as well as instant image capture, so no more shaky pauses while your camera phone takes a few moments to take a photo. Your photos can then be sent wireless to a printer. The HTC Sensation also doubles up as a full ...

Melrose Arch's Pigalle Restaurant

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:47:46 +0100

Francophones, and especially those with knowledge of Paris, may know that the restaurant has taken its name from a famous old Parisian quarter, attractive to tourists for its raunchy reputation as home to sex shops, prostitutes and the world-famous cabaret theatre Moulin Rouge. But nothing of the sort at the fine-dining institution that is Pigalle – it is a classy venue, more sassy than formal, and this is apparent from the moment one steps inside.In the welcome area there is a colourful, spect...

DVD Review: Hereafter

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:14:35 +0100

Meanwhile, French journalist Marie Lelay (Cécile de France) struggles to deal with a near-death experience that shakes her reality. And then there’s young Marcus (Frankie and George McLaren), a London schoolboy who is struggling to deal with the loss of his twin brother, who was killed in a car accident. Common to them all is their search for answers, and in seeking the truth their lives intersect and are forever changed. Despite Eastwood’s brilliance, some great performances and an emotio...

DVD Review: Life Above All

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:12:24 +0100

When Chanda’s baby brother dies suddenly, the rural community of Elandsdoorn begins to suspect her mother has HIV. Chanda is determined to overcome the gossip and lies and embarks on a courageous journey to restore her mother’s dignity. The film is a brilliant and most relevant piece of social commentary and received a 10-minute standing ovation at its Cannes premiere. In his portrayal of both the beauty and ugliness of humanity, South African-born director Oliver Schmitz manages to explore ...

DVD Review: The Fighter

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:04:35 +0100

The support of his family becomes his struggle, and as the gripping drama unravels he decides to let go of Dicky, who has helped train him for as long as he can remember, as well as his manager and mother (played by Melissa Leo). The film is driven by its strong cast, with an especially brilliant performance by Christian Bale, who dropped about 20 kilograms to play crack-addicted big brother, Dicky. The thrills of each fight are perfectly crafted by cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema, while direc...

Book review: You must set forth at dawn

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:29:20 +0100

Partly autobiography, partly political history, this 600-word tome poignantly and candidly tells of his involvement in the politics of a nation largely defined by successive military dictatorships that often punished dissent through detentions, torture or worse. In this regard, he revisits the events relating to his incarceration during the 1967 Nigerian Civil War when he spent 27 months in prison after he was accused of helping Biafran secessionists to buy jet fighters. He writes in trenchant pr...

Book Review: African Film – New Forms of Aesthetics and Politics

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:25:12 +0100

He then brings the reader to what is the core of this book – current trends, forms, language and aesthetics in contemporary cinema as well as new modes of production and the kind of politics that shapes the big-screen industry. There are profiles of 31 young directors including South Africans Zola Maseko (Drum) and Gavin Hood (Tsotsi). Their cinematic creations and thoughtful observations provide valuable insights into current trends and developments – an important reference work for students...

Book review: The Obamas – The Untold Story of an African Family

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:18:38 +0100

In the process of his retelling the story of an illustrious Kenyan family, he has achieved a literary feat. The 300-word book is intriguing and compelling. He traces the family’s Sudanese origins back to as early as the 13th century through all their heroic odysseys across the treacherous plains and savannahs of East Africa as they follow the flow of streams and rivers for their and their livestock’s survival.He tells of their sojourn in Uganda and ultimately their settlement in Kenya as memb...

Hello Africa, Tell Me What You’re Cooking

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:01:59 +0100

More and more Western people are becoming intrigued with ‘African’ food in all its spicy and flavourful glory. New York’s cultural hotspots such as Chinatown and Little Italy may soon have to step out of the cultural-culinary spotlight as emerging African establishments such as Xai Xai South African Wine Bar in Hell’s Kitchen and Africa Restaurant and Braai NYC in central Manhattan have opened their doors and soared in popularity. And even traditional menus at well-regarded local US esta...

Culinary Culture: POP Culture

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:28:12 +0100

In the years that followed it became clear that the monk’s true talent was his ability to blend. He successfully mixed grapes from different vineyards, from different locations, with varying ripeness and flavour. And through this careful blending process, Pérignon managed to create a relatively consistent flavour – bb a flavour fit for royalty.In 1715, Philippe Duc d’Orléans became regent of France, and almost immediately the corks started popping and the bubbly began to flow. This was th...

CD Review: Stimela - A Lifetime

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:23:51 +0100

Distinguished guests – including American Puff Johnson, Thandiswa Mazwai, Soweto Spiritual Choir and Ladysmith Black Mambazo – lend their magical voices in exquisitely crafted songs such as Dance For Me and Turn On The Sun. Band leader Ray Phiri and the late crooner Nana Motijoane reignite the vocal chemistry that brought about Whispers In The Deep in the exceptionally soulful Holy Soul while the legendary female backing trio of Stella Khumalo, Faith Kekana and Felicia Marion keep the vocals ...

CD Review: Skipper Shabalala - Bekezela

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:20:51 +0100

In the mid-1990s Shabalala reinvented himself as Lucky Dube’s lead guitarist. He toured with the late reggae master and shared international stages with other revered reggae icons including Burning Spear, Ziggy Marley, UB40 and Eddy Grant. But this album is not about reggae or township disco. It’s a testimony of Shabalala’s progression from a talented township musician with popular acclaim to an African artist who’s found his voice and purpose in contemporary African music. Incorporating ...

CD Review: Phinda - Heaven Can Wait

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:15:55 +0100

But as the album title indicates, this is in essence a work that celebrates life. It’s mainly happy folk music steeped in her Xhosa heritage with a contemporary edge that’s been tailored for the dance floor. The title track itself has a Sophiatown-era sound that was inspired by the stories Mama Afrika related to Phinda about life in this suburb of Jozi. Other outstanding tracks include Plea For Africa, a John Knox Bokwe classic composition she first recorded in Victor Ntoni’s groundbreaking...

Movie review: Black Swan

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:08:46 +0100

Despite her technical prowess, battered feet, skin-and-bone body, and tireless efforts, Nina lacks the ability to embrace her character as the Black Swan. Enter Lily (Mila Kunis), a dancer who is wild, oozes sex appeal and delivers her dance style with passion and abandonment – a challenge to Nina’s sorely robotic precision. The rivalry between the two dancers soon develops into a twisted friendship.Encouraged to embrace her dark side, Nina is pushed to her limits. In her goal to truly let go...

Movie review: You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:05:08 +0100

In essence it is the story of one family and their tangled love lives, where all the poignant details are subtly captured by an all star cast. Alfie (Anthony Hopkins) trades in his 40 year marriage for a gold-digging call girl half his age, while his ex-wife Helena (Gemma Jones) finds solace in the loopy advice of a psychic. Their daughter Sally (Naomi Watts) struggles to keep her childless marriage together, and begins to develop a crush on her handsome boss, Greg (Antonio Banderas). Her writer-...

Movie review: Love and Other Impossible Pursuits

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:00:31 +0100

Director Don Roos has done a great job in his exploration of the relationships between characters, which are as amusing as they are convincing. He portrays the life of Emilia through a series of flashbacks that allow the viewer to flick through the chapters of her life, juxtaposing past tragedy with the undying hope for happiness. All the while Cinematographer, Steve Yedlin, captures the winter wonderland of modern Manhattan.Dramatic, emotional, and engaging, Love and Other Impossible Pursuits co...

DVD Review: The Tourist

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:57:54 +0100

Strangers to one another, they are now both entangled in a web of intrigue, romance and danger. There is a twist at the end of the tale, but it isn’t very exciting nor does it make much sense. The Tourist is a romantic thriller that lacks the thrill. Charming yet forgettable, it captures the beauty of Venice with cinematic grace but fails to explore the characters of Hollywood’s best actors to their fullest potential. But if you like luxury, clothes, jewels, hotels, boats and breathtaking vie...

DVD Review: 127 Hours

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:55:34 +0100

Although the majority of the movie is filmed in a cramped, isolated space where panic and claustrophobia are equally tangible, the visually rich dream sequences revealing his life before this moment are a wonderful relief. The movie relies heavily on the solo performance by Franco, and he is simply brilliant! The intensity of his performance does great justice to Aron’s truly unbeatable will to live and makes this movie a must-see. A terrifying, inspiring and gut-wrenching experience – certai...

DVD Review: Dinner for Schmucks

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:48:55 +0100

Then Tim meets Barry (Steve Carell), who is the most extraordinary schmuck in all of Los Angeles. Barry’s big hair, bad teeth and bizarre hobby of dressing up dead mice as famous historical figures makes him the perfect guest – and Tim’s ticket into the winner’s circle. But despite being a born loser, Barry’s creepy ways are rather endearing, and so begins the start of a very unlikely friendship. Although not the most brilliant movie ever, it is a fun-filled comedy that is as entertaini...

Book Review: Mandela's Way

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:45:44 +0100

Stengel’s moving book on Mandela’s leadership style is an exception. The Time-magazine editor collaborated with the former president on his autobiography, and for three years he was privileged to obtain an insider’s perspective on Mandela’s day-to-day life. He interacted with him in both his private and public space – sharing intimate moments such as mealtimes. The results are 15 profound lessons distilled in an articulate and entertaining work. These lessons include a chapter on why qu...

Book review: Learn like a Leader

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:41:37 +0100

The seeds of this book were sown back in the 1990s when a group of writers, motivators and speakers – including all three editors – came together in a series of seminars to talk about the defining moments in their lives and how those moments shaped their leadership styles and philosophies. This book derives its authenticity from the first-person narratives of the individual contributors who are obviously experts in their chosen fields and the very human testimonies about their personal challe...

Book review: 1000 CEOs

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:34:06 +0100

In between the reader is introduced to super achievers whose names have become synonymous with their giant enterprises. These are global personal brands that include Richard Branson of Virgin, Microsoft founder and billionaire Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, the face of Apple, whose key leadership strengths include “an instinctive understanding not only of where technology is going but also what makes people want to buy it”. Alongside these highly successful but archetypal business mavericks from ...

HQ: An exceptional steak only restaurant

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:24:17 +0100

HQ really does only serve its clientele steak and chips, simplicity of choice no mistake. But they have an unfailing ability to deliver to each diner an exceptional piece of meat, beautifully cooked, each and every time. The concept is loosely based on a Parisian restaurant, Le Relais de L’Entrecôte, renowned for serving high-quality meat. HQ, situated in the “central” hub of restaurants and bars in Sandton, has sister restaurants in Cape Town. The meat What’s so special about HQ’s s...