Unsung Heroes Who Fought Apartheid.
“London Recruits,” directed by Gordon Main, is a compelling documentary that delves into an often overlooked chapter of the anti-apartheid movement. Based on the book “London Recruits,” the film recounts the courageous efforts of several individuals from London who were recruited to support the African National Congress (ANC) in their fight against apartheid in South Africa during the 1960s.
This documentary masterfully captures their bravery, motivations, commitment, and sacrifices, revealing a profound narrative of international solidarity and the fight for equality.
The story centres on the ingenious plan devised by Oliver Tambo, an activist and leader of the ANC, to sustain the struggle for liberation. Recognizing the need to keep the anti-apartheid message alive, Tambo orchestrated the recruitment of young white foreigners, primarily from London, to undertake covert operations within South Africa. These recruits, though seemingly ordinary Londoners, performed extraordinary duties for a cause that offered no direct benefit to them but was vital to the greater good of humanity.
Through a blend of interviews with surviving recruits and expertly dramatized reenactments, the film brings to life the daring missions and personal experiences of these unsung heroes. The documentary details how these individuals were identified, approached, and trained for their roles, shedding light on the specific actions they took and their significant impact on the anti-apartheid movement. The personal stories of the recruits add a deeply human dimension to the historical narrative, illustrating their selfless contributions to fighting apartheid.
One particularly gripping aspect of the film is its depiction of the leaflet bombings of 1970. On August 13th of that year, leaflet bombs exploded in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, scattering revolutionary ANC propaganda leaflets. The film meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to that day, showcasing the meticulous planning and execution of this bold operation. Gordon Main‘s direction turns the reenactment of this mission into a high-stakes thriller, filled with suspense and intensity that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
However, the film’s dramatizations extend beyond this single mission. A poignant prison scene towards the end of the documentary is particularly moving and enthralling. Main skillfully captures the resilience and solidarity of black prisoners who sang for their comrades as they were taken away in groups of eight to be executed. This scene not only underscores the brutal realities of apartheid but also highlights the unbreakable spirit of those who fought against it.
Visually, “London Recruits” excels in creating an authentic representation of the era. The reenactments are shot and colour-graded to seamlessly blend with archival footage, creating a cohesive visual narrative that transports viewers back in time. The editing maintains a fast and engaging pace, reflecting the urgency of the situation and keeping the audience invested from start to finish.
The casting choices further enhance the film’s realism. The actors portraying the young recruits are remarkably convincing, closely resembling their real-life counterparts. It is obvious that great care and detail went into selecting the right actors to bring these historical figures to life.
In addition to focusing on the recruits and their missions, “London Recruits” also provides perspectives from those on the opposing side of the struggle. The inclusion of interviews with individuals who worked against the ANC offers a more comprehensive view of the political and social dynamics of the time, adding depth to the narrative.
For those unfamiliar with the apartheid era, this documentary offers a powerful and enlightening perspective. It highlights the international dimension of the anti-apartheid struggle, showcasing the global solidarity against the regime. “London Recruits” not only honours the brave Londoners who risked their lives but also serves as a reminder of the importance of global support in the fight for justice and equality.
This is truly a remarkable documentary that captures a crucial part of history with sensitivity and depth.
Gordon Main‘s direction, combined with compelling storytelling, vivid reenactments, and a well-rounded narrative, makes this film an essential watch for anyone interested in the history of apartheid, international activism, and the enduring struggle for human rights.
The film is a tribute to the ordinary individuals who took extraordinary steps for the cause of freedom, leaving a lasting impact on the fight against apartheid. I will score this film 4 out of 5 stars.
Catch the film at the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival: http://encounters.co.za/
Author: Tony Asankomah
This review emanates from the Talent Press programme, an initiative of Talents Durban in collaboration with the Durban FilmMart Institute and FIPRESCI. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author (Tony Asankomah) and cannot be considered as constituting an official position of the organisers.
