Redemption to a kwaito beat: Gavin Hood's Tsotsi

Abstract

The authors provide an analysis of the film Tsotsi, with a specific focus on the musical score comprising both pre-recorded popular music (mainly the kwaito of Zola) and more conventional orchestral and choral components. We argue that the film is less concerned with political issues—significant given that the film is adapted from Athol Fugard's novel—and more about the protagonist's individual path to redemption. This journey is powerfully underscored by Hood's deployment of contrasting musical genres in the film, signifying Tsotsi's shift from sociopathic menace to an emotionally recuperated individual who takes responsibility for his actions. Zola's influence on the film narrative is also investigated, leading us to propose that the film can be seen as reinforcing negative stereotypes of black masculinity in South Africa.