Sisters of the Wilderness is a captivating and heartwarming documentary released in 2018, directed by Kim Wolhuter. It tells the story of two South African women, Amanda Ntombela and Andile Nxumalo, who go on a journey of self-discovery through the wilderness of the iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The movie begins by introducing us to the two women. Amanda, a traditional healer, and Andile, a young marketing professional, are from different backgrounds, but they share a passion for nature and wildlife. They embark on a five-day journey into the park, with the aim of learning about nature and themselves.
The iMfolozi Park is a breathtakingly beautiful wilderness area, home to a range of animals, including elephants, rhinos, lions, and cheetahs. It has one of the largest populations of black and white rhinos in the world, making it an important conservation area. The park is also the ancestral home of Zulu culture, and the women discover the rich cultural history of the park as they explore.
As they journey through the park, Amanda and Andile face many challenges. They are not experienced hikers, and the rugged terrain proves difficult to navigate. The women also confront their fears as they come into close proximity to wild animals. However, they are supported by experienced guides, who educate them about the animals and their habitat.
The film takes us on a journey of discovery as Amanda and Andile learn about themselves as much as the environment around them. The women's different backgrounds and life experiences provide a unique perspective and make the film rich and insightful.
One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is its focus on the importance of conservation. The film highlights how fragile our natural world is and how important it is to protect it. The women witness firsthand the beauty and diversity of Africaâs wildlife, but they also see the devastating impact of poaching and habitat loss.
However, the movie is not only about conservation but also about personal growth. As the women immerse themselves in nature, they experience a spiritual and emotional connection to the world around them. They reflect on their own lives, their relationships, and their place in the world. They also discover how important it is to take time for themselves, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Sisters of the Wilderness is beautifully shot, and the cinematography is truly stunning. The film captures the beauty of the park, and the close-up shots of the animals are breathtaking. The soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly and adds to the film's emotional impact.
The documentary is not without its flaws, however. Some viewers may find the slow pace of the film frustrating, and the lack of a strong narrative arc may disappoint those who are used to more traditional storytelling. Despite this, the film remains captivating and thought-provoking, and it is sure to leave an impression on those who watch it.
In conclusion, Sisters of the Wilderness is a powerful and moving documentary that offers a unique insight into the importance of nature and conservation. It is a reminder of our place in the world and the urgent need to protect our environment. The film is emotional, thought-provoking, and inspiring, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who watch it.
Sisters of the Wilderness is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.