South African revenge movies rarely come as engaging and well-crafted as Hunting Emma (Afrikaans title: Jagveld). This taut thriller, written by Deon Meyer and directed by Byron Davis, blends gritty survival tactics with a character-driven narrative. With a focus on tension over gore, Hunting Emma is a must-watch for fans of revenge stories, Afrikaans cinema, and South African films.

Plot Summary: Survival and Payback in the Karoo Desert

Emma, a reserved schoolteacher with a sharp survival instinct, heads into the arid Karoo desert for a hiking trip. Her car, affectionately named Jessie, breaks down in the middle of nowhere. While searching for water, Emma unwittingly witnesses a brutal crime: a gang of criminals murdering a traffic cop who got too close to their operations. From there, the stakes escalate as Emma must outwit and outlast her pursuers in a long fight for survival.

Unlike many revenge films that rely on shock value and excessive violence, Hunting Emma leans on smart character development and realistic storytelling. Emma’s resourcefulness, honed through a blend of backstory and necessity, makes her a worthy protagonist. The meticulous direction ensures every moment of tension feels earned.

Filmmaking Craft: What Sets Hunting Emma Apart

Cinematography: The sweeping shots of the Karoo desert contrast beautifully with the claustrophobic tension of Emma’s close encounters. The use of natural light enhances the realism, grounding the story in its isolated setting.
Action Sequences: The film’s choreography stands out, especially during Emma’s hand-to-hand combat scenes. The iconic moment where Emma grabs a cast-iron pan to dispatch one of her attackers delivers both humor and grit, epitomizing the movie’s clever balance.
Scriptwriting: Deon Meyer’s script excels in fleshing out both protagonist and antagonist motivations. The criminals are more than stock villains, each having distinct personalities that elevate the stakes.
Performances: Lead actress Leandie du Randt (Thys & Trix) shines as Emma, delivering a nuanced performance that transitions seamlessly from vulnerability to determination. Supporting actors Neels van Jaarsveld (The Bang Club), Tim Theron (Klein Karoo), and Drikus Volschenk (Maze Runner: The Death Cure) add depth to the ensemble.

Thematic Depth: A South African Perspective: “Jagveld”

Set against the backdrop of South Africa’s stark landscapes, Hunting Emma adds layers of cultural authenticity. Afrikaans dialogue grounds the film in its regional identity. The themes of justice and survival resonate universally. It’s a refreshing take on the revenge thriller subgenre, steering away from excessive brutality to focus on Emma’s intellect and determination.

Most Memorable Scene

One standout moment involves a tense kitchen showdown. The antagonist sneers, “I’ll show you how women are supposed to be treated in the kitchen.” Emma counters with a cast-iron skillet and a quip. “My favorite chore to do is ironing.” The combination of dark humor and brutal efficiency encapsulates the film’s tone perfectly.

Hunting Emma: A Hidden Gem in Afrikaans Cinema

For fans of Revenge (2018) or The Brave One (2007), Hunting Emma offers a similarly satisfying experience, with a South African twist. It’s an expertly paced story where every decision feels deliberate. Unlike many revenge thrillers, it avoids unnecessary gore, opting for psychological tension and creative action.

Production Details and Distribution

Director: Byron Davis
Writer: Deon Meyer
Cast: Leandie du Randt, Neels van Jaarsveld, Tim Theron, Drikus Volschenk
Studio: Karoo Film Company
Distributed by: Times Media Films, Red Hound Films
Language: Afrikaans (with subtitles available)
Release: March 2017 (Premiered at Edmonton International Film Festival)
Budget: $6 million ZAR (~$418,000 USD)

Where to Watch

Hunting Emma is available on DVD and streaming platforms. Check JustWatch.com for availability in your region. Fans of Afrikaans cinema and South African movies will find this revenge thriller worth seeking out. Mother of Movies recommends the following female-led survival movies to add to your watchlist: Killer Kate | Lyvias House | The Ledge or The Retaliators.

Final Thoughts

With its lean runtime of 100 minutes, Hunting Emma never overstays its welcome. The film delivers a well-rounded revenge story that’s as entertaining as it is gripping. It’s a reminder of how regional cinema can bring fresh perspectives to familiar genres. If you’re seeking a revenge thriller with a clever protagonist, sharp filmmaking, and a touch of South African flair, add this one to your watchlist.

Rating: 3.5 “Who’s hunting who?” out of 5

Mother of Movies score