Jonathan

What it's about:

Jonathan, a dreamer and wannabe stand-up comedian in his late 20’s, still lives with parents. After yet another failed open mic performance, he gets drunk and crashes his father’s dream bakkie. This is the last straw for his loving, but fed up parents, who eventually kick him out of the house. Sitting at a restaurant not knowing where to go, he watches car guards in the parking lot and decides that he will also become a car guard just to stay afloat until the next big stand-up competition, which he firmly believes he can win. After a very hostile reception by the other car guards, the eldest car guard decides to take Jonathan under his wing, teaches him the fine art of being a car guard and, more importantly, he teaches him about life and how to survive as an outcast.

What we thought:

Let’s just get something out of the way: making a comedy film in general is not an easy task, and making one in South Africa, well, is even more challenging.

Not only is it one of the most difficult genres to write for, it’s also one where you can get it completely right or completely wrong. It all depends on the audience.

Based on the YouTube star and fictional character of the same name, Jonathan tells the story of a stand-up comedian who has been trying to make it big ever since he got injured and had to stop his flourishing rugby career. But after yet another failed open mic attempt, Jonathan gets drunk, wrecks his dad’s car, and basically has to start his life from scratch.

For those of you who don’t know who Jonathan is, his real name is Rikus de Beer and he has been making YouTube videos since 2013. His videos feature his alter ego, Jonathan, in comedic skits about ordinary things in life. 

Watch one of his skits here:

Now let’s get to the movie… Jonathan is director Sallas de Jager’s first venture into the comedic genre. Known for his honest storytelling in movies such as Roepman, Verraaiers and Free State, De Jager showcases some extravagance with Jonathan. While the story is quite predictable with a heavy touch of Hollywood, it stays true to its purpose, which is to entertain.

And as with all humour, everyone has different taste. Some might be laughing out loud at Jonathan’s catch phrases and humour, while others might not find it funny at all. One thing that will also put some off is the excessive use of profanity. Jonathan swears a lot.  

The movie features a stellar local cast with the likes of Brumilda van Rensburg, Eric Nobbs, Rika Sennett, Paul Eilers, Lizz Meiring and Beate Opperman all bringing their A-game.

While a visually beautiful film, Jonathan might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you’re game for the likes of a Lipstick Dipstick type of humour, then go for it.