Netflix has unleashed a new local thriller series, “Soon Comes Night,” a gripping narrative set against the transformative backdrop of South Africa between the 1980s and 2000s.
With just a glimpse of the first episode, this will remind you of local classics like Tsotsi and Gangster’s Paradise: Jerusalema and How to Steal 2 Million.
This six-part series, crafted by Ochre Moving Pictures, delves into the life of liberation-hero-turned-heist-king Alex Shabane (portrayed by Kwenzo Ngcobo), who will have to pay for his crimes, and that’s Detective Oosthuizen’s (played by Albert Pretorius) mission.
The series kicks off with a pulse-pounding cash-in-transit heist in the heart of Johannesburg, seamlessly transitioning to Shabane’s hero moment, where he is celebrated by his community for always being a provider to many. The local flavour is richly displayed, capturing the essence of 2000s Johannesburg with its classic Gusheshes, scurl and cut hairstyles, flashy fashion, and, of course, a well-curated soundtrack dominated by Kwaito jams from the likes of Mapaputsi, Zola, Lebo Mathosa and TKZee.
The stellar cast, including Kenneth Nkosi, Dumisani Bembe, Didintle Khunou, Sisanda Henna, Connie Chiume, Mavuso Simelane, Don Mlangeni, and Albert Pretorius, adds depth to the narrative.
The plot intertwines political-influenced crimes, the Pimville slasher case, and the pursuit of justice by Detective Oosthuizen (Albert Pretorius). As he strives to catch Alex Shabane, a former freedom fighter entangled in political and criminal webs, the series explores a gritty crime drama based on real events and inspired by a notorious heist legend.
Alex Shabane takes center stage, evolving from a young thief into a liberation hero turned heist king. As he embarks on audacious cash heists and challenges the new government, Detective Oosthuizen, a broken man wrestling with family issues, health, grief, and a dysfunctional police force, is appointed to bring him to justice.
The collision of these two contrasting characters reflects the complexities of old and new South Africa—a landscape where a painful past clashes with the hope and promise of freedom.
Thato Sekoati (Didintle Khunou) joins Detective Oosthuizen, navigating a male-dominated police force while dealing with personal stakes tied to her father’s unsolved murder. As the story unfolds, Alex Shabane’s stubbornness tests the limits, leading to losses and challenging relationships.
Props to casting director Terry Pheto for assembling a stellar cast that brings authenticity to this raw and relative production. The series delivers with a solid script and engaging storyline, making it a refreshing watch for fans of local productions.
The first three episodes pack a punch, but with a somewhat predictable ending, the subsequent episodes might wane a bit in intensity. Nevertheless, “Soon Comes Night” stands as a compelling addition to the landscape of South African crime dramas, capturing the essence of a nation in transition.
All six episodes of the series are now streaming on Netflix.
Peep the trailer below:
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