8: A South African Horror Story aka The Soul Collector

The world premiere for ‘8’ aka The Soul Collector from Harold Hölscher played to a sold-out screening in 2019 at Fantasia International Film Festival. South African horror movies are steeped in folklore, and 8: An African Horror Story is no different. Tshamano Sebe’s Lazarus dares to ask the question;

“what would you do to reunite with someone you’ve lost?” “Would you consider trapping a known devil or doing a deal with one?”

Quote from the 2019 movie 8.

Best South African Movies

8 is a film that will stick with you. It’s a very slow-moving folk horror in some parts but this slowness promotes a dreamlike quality to the story. Despite performances being hit and miss, 8, is a film worth watching. Its young star, Keita Luna, comes across as the most polite and mild-mannered entity I’ve ever seen. This is despite her circumstances, surroundings, and influences. Her character Mary is forced to stay with her uncle and aunt after her parent’s untimely demise. The conflict within the household is subtle. So subtle, it’s the dynamic of this family unit that you need to keep an eye on. As for Luna, if you frequent National Geographic documentaries, you’ll have caught a glimpse of her in some of the wildlife behind-the-scenes moments. It’s probably where she got her inner calm from.

Is Lazarus the Devil?

Lazarus appears within the beautiful landscapes and scenic camera angles. 8 starts amidst a voiceover on par with that of 1992’s Candyman with Tony Todd. Lazaarus’ smooth tones talk of a demon who is unable to be tricked and one that has forced him into a lifetime under the thumb of Utuli, a demon he made a pact with. Feeding on human souls, Utuli wants nothing more than its next meal. Lazarus arrives on the homestead and infiltrates the family with what the viewer knows are evil intentions, yet Mary and her uncle are none the wiser. South African movies don’t come more cinematically beautiful than ‘8’.

Inge Beckmann & Garth Breytenbach Are Cast in the Movie 8

The star power of Inge Beckmann as Sarah plays a pivotal part in the film. What’s more, Beckmann’s performance was far too much of a dialed-back affair and in turn, was something I struggled with. This film is a talking point for any who’s seen it and I won’t be divulging any spoilers.

Fans of 2005’s The Triangle will recognize Garth Breytenbach. Here he plays the detached yet caring William and his desire to create a better life leaves him with blinders on. There are certainly some details and clues within his surroundings he surely should not have missed.

Finally, 8 is an excellent entry to folklore and fable-type horror that I am very fond of. As a debut directorial feature film from Harold Hölscher, his ability to take an idea about death and souls and where they go in the afterlife is well conceptualized. Here’s hoping he unleashes a little more next time.

8 aka The Soul Collector is rated

3 out of 5

For more folk horror watch The Seeding / The Wind

Where to Watch 8 An African Horror Story

In the USA, 8 An African Horror Story is streaming for free on lots of platforms. You can watch it on any of the listed services below. Alternatively, you can rent or buy this African horror movie.

The Twin movie 2022 movie Where To Watch:

South African Movies – Official Trailer for 8