
Crooked Rainbow 2015
Crooked Rainbow (2015) is a poignant short film that explores the clash between nostalgic idealism and harsh reality in post-apartheid South Africa.
Director: Wim Steytler
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crooked Rainbow (2015) about?
Crooked Rainbow follows a hermit who has isolated himself in a personal museum celebrating South Africa's idealized past. When he learns of Nelson Mandela's death, he must confront the gap between his romanticized memories and the complex reality of his nation's history.
Who directed Crooked Rainbow?
Crooked Rainbow was directed by Wim Steytler, who brings a thoughtful perspective to this intimate character study.
Who stars in Crooked Rainbow?
The film features Gavin Van Den Berg, Ashmund Martin, Kutloano Morake, Vuyo Mtshibe, Merlin Balie, and Maki Mokhitli in key roles.
Is Crooked Rainbow (2015) worth watching?
At just 23 minutes, this short film offers a concise but meaningful exploration of memory and identity in post-apartheid South Africa. While it may not have mainstream appeal, viewers interested in character-driven dramas about historical reckoning will find it worthwhile.
How long is Crooked Rainbow?
Crooked Rainbow has a runtime of 23 minutes.
Crooked Rainbow (2015): A Hermit's Confrontation with Post-Apartheid Reality
Crooked Rainbow (2015) is a poignant short film that explores the clash between nostalgic idealism and harsh reality in post-apartheid South Africa. Directed by Wim Steytler, this 23-minute drama follows a reclusive man who has built his life around preserving the mythologized glory days of his nation. Living in his own mini-museum of memorabilia, he clings to a sanitized version of history until the death of Nelson Mandela shatters his carefully constructed worldview.
The film features powerful performances from Gavin Van Den Berg, Ashmund Martin, and Kutloano Morake, alongside Vuyo Mtshibe, Merlin Balie, and Maki Mokhitli. This character-driven piece delves into themes of identity, memory, and the painful process of confronting uncomfortable truths. Set against the backdrop of a changing South Africa, Crooked Rainbow captures the emotional weight of letting go of illusions and embracing a more complex reality. The atmosphere is contemplative and slightly melancholic, offering audiences a brief but impactful meditation on how we choose to remember our heroes and our history.
With its intimate storytelling and strong ensemble cast, this short film serves as both a personal character study and a broader commentary on national identity in transition.