A World Apart 1988
"South Africa, 1963. A mother's love. A family's courage."
Set against the tense backdrop of 1960s Johannesburg, Chris Menges' gripping apartheid-era drama *A World Apart (1988)* weaves a poignant tale of family, resilience, and moral awakening.
Director: Chris Menges
Cast
Barbara Hershey
Diana Roth
David Suchet
Muller
Jeroen Krabbé
Gus Roth
Paul Freeman
Kruger
Tim Roth
Harold
Jodhi May
Molly Roth
Nadine Chalmers
Yvonne Abelson
Maria Pilar
Spanish Dance Teacher
Kate Fitzpatrick
June Abelson
Phyllis Naidoo
Sareda
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A World Apart (1988) about?
Chris Menges' *A World Apart* follows 13-year-old Molly Roth, whose life unravels in apartheid-era Johannesburg when her activist parents become targets of the regime. As Molly grapples with their arrests and her own isolation, she discovers the true cost of courage in a society built on oppression.
Who directed A World Apart?
The film was directed by Chris Menges, an acclaimed cinematographer and filmmaker known for his visually striking and socially conscious works.
Who stars in A World Apart?
The cast features Barbara Hershey, David Suchet, Jeroen Krabbé, Paul Freeman, Tim Roth, and Jodhi May in standout roles that drive the story forward.
Is A World Apart (1988) worth watching?
Absolutely—this intense drama combines stellar performances and a gripping narrative that sheds light on a pivotal chapter in South African history. While it's not a light watch, its emotional depth and relevance make it a film worth seeking out for history and drama lovers alike.
How long is A World Apart?
The film runs for 113 minutes, offering a tightly paced exploration of its themes without unnecessary filler.
🎥 Trailer
About A World Apart (1988) — A Family's Fight Against Apartheid in 1960s Johannesburg
Set against the tense backdrop of 1960s Johannesburg, Chris Menges' gripping apartheid-era drama *A World Apart (1988)* weaves a poignant tale of family, resilience, and moral awakening. At its heart is Barbara Hershey's powerful performance as Molly Roth, a 13-year-old caught in the storm of her leftist parents' activism. When her father vanishes to evade arrest and her mother is detained by authorities, Molly navigates a world where childhood innocence shatters against the brutal reality of apartheid. Her once-sheltered friendships with white peers curdle into betrayal, while her family's bonds with Black South Africans take on fragile, dangerous significance. Menges crafts a story where every relationship teeters on the edge of fracture, and survival hinges on courage few dare to summon.
With Jeroen Krabbé, Jodhi May, David Suchet, and a standout Tim Roth in early-career roles, the film immerses audiences in a society where silence is complicity and love is an act of defiance. The stark cinematography mirrors the moral clarity of its characters, making *A World Apart* more than a historical drama—it's a testament to the quiet heroism of those who refuse to look away. Expect raw performances and a story that lingers long after the credits roll.
