Watch Hear Me Move

Hear Me Move is a South African dance film that tells the story of Muzi (played by Nyaniso Dzedze), a talented dancer who dreams of winning a major dance competition. Muzi’s journey intersects with that of young choreographer Lina (played by Bontle Modiselle), who is dealing with the fallout of a personal tragedy. Along the way, Muzi meets a host of colorful characters, from rival dancers to his own estranged father.

The film is set in the vibrant world of South African street dance, showcasing a wide range of dance styles, from traditional Zulu dancing to contemporary hip hop. The choreography is inventive and dynamic, with intricate footwork and acrobatic moves that never fail to impress. The dance scenes are shot with a kinetic energy, with the camera following the dancers’ movements in a way that makes the viewer feel like they are part of the action.

What sets Hear Me Move apart from other dance films is its emphasis on storytelling. While the dance sequences are undoubtedly the highlight of the film, they are always driven by a strong narrative. The characters are fleshed-out and their motivations are explored in depth, making the audience care about what happens to them. The film deals with themes of family, loss, and redemption, with a focus on how dance can be a means of overcoming difficult circumstances.

The performances are uniformly strong, with Nyaniso Dzedze delivering a standout turn as Muzi. He brings a quiet intensity to the role, imbuing his dance moves with a deep emotive power. Bontle Modiselle is also impressive as Lina, conveying both vulnerability and strength in her performance. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Mbuso Kgarebe in particular standing out as Muzi’s rival dancer, Flash.

The film also boasts a strong soundtrack, with a mix of contemporary and traditional South African music that complements the dance scenes perfectly. The music is seamlessly integrated into the film, with many of the dance sequences feeling like music videos in their own right.

While at times the film can feel formulaic - there are certain cliches of the dance movie genre that are unavoidable - Hear Me Move makes up for it with its eye-popping visuals and heartfelt storytelling. The film has a genuine sense of joy and optimism, celebrating the power of dance to uplift and inspire.

Overall, Hear Me Move is a must-watch for fans of dance films, as well as anyone looking for a fun and uplifting moviegoing experience. With its mix of stunning dance sequences and nuanced storytelling, the film is a true gem of South African cinema.

Hear Me Move is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.