Wonder Boy for President

What’s it about:

Wonder Boy is a charismatic and authoritative young man from the Eastern Cape who’s coerced into running for president by two dubious and corrupt characters. Their aim is to mould him into a great politician and manufacture his downfall at the right time, for the right price.

What we thought:

With election day fast approaching the brilliant political satire, Wonder Boy for President comes at the right time.

The clever (and effective!) opening credits, perfectly set the mood for the hilarious mockumentary. And throughout the movie it is executed with just the perfect blend of wit, cynicism and humour.

Wonder Boy for President caught my attention from the very first scene – a naked Kagiso Lediga emerging from the ocean – and kept the momentum going throughout.

The main character, Wonder Boy, played by comedian Kagiso Lediga, was portrayed with just the perfect balance of simplicity and humour. The movie's success is largely based on the cast, their improv skills, smarts and likability.

At the screening it was revealed that more than 60% of the content was improvisation.

Even though the movie was shot over five years, the film was edited seamlessly, and there’s very little evidence of a time lapse or actors breaking character.

As expected the political satire showcases the complex political arena and as one would expect, it deals with bribery, scandalous political shenanigans and of course a heated sex scandal.

There are also some cameo appearances by Hellen Zille, Jacob Zuma and Zwelinzima Vavi.  

If you’re easily offended, then this movie might not be for you.