Slay is a movie set in South Africa. It is Star-studded with South African, Nigerian and Ghanaian actors. Netflix categories it as a comedy which made me watch it. It is an easy watch; it made me laugh and got me relaxed. There is nothing complicated or intriguing about it. You easily relate to the movie’s plot.
You can watch Slay on Netflix or YouTube
The Story
Slay tells a story about how people claim to be what they are not and lie to appear wealthy and classy on social media and in real life. It highlights how fake people can be to fit in the ‘rich’ society. Although some lines are unnecessary, the story was interesting. Some clichés made the story too simple. The message is easy to understand and realistic as we see this kind of people.
The scriptwriter did a reasonably good job describing how people live inauthentic lives though the director exaggerated some parts to drive the message home.
The Actors
If anything made the movie worthwhile, it’s the actors. Their delivery was brilliant. The energy and pace of the movie are excellent, so you do not get bored.
Ramsey Nouah, Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa and Simphiwe Ngema are the main characters, though they do not interact in the storyline. They each carry their parts so well. The Casting Director did a fantastic job picking them for leading roles in the same movie as they have an excellent screen presence.
Their acting was not awkward in any way. Their conversations and gestures flowed easily; You feel like they are actually in front of you. Even before speaking, their body language narrates the story.
Slay Cast
Richard – Ramsey Nouah
Penny – Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa
Lerato – Simphiwe Ngema
Candy – Amanda Du-Pont
Technical Construction
Of all the technical aspects, I commend the sound. The score was different for each scene, thus raising expectations, and the editor was not shy at using sound effects.
Another significant aspect of the movie was the lighting and cameras used. The clarity, even in dark scenes, was excellent. There was the use of aerial views, and generally, the quality of the product makes it seem like a high budget movie. Some of the best talents worked behind the scenes.
Conclusion
Though not entirely realistic, the movie delivered its message and entertained, which was its clear objective. The question is whether a different plot would have given the topic the seriousness it deserves, given the tragic effects such fake living. That is for you to decide, but overall, I would rate it a 7 out of 10.
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