‘Black Burns Fast’ Movie Review – Is It Worth Watching?

Black Burns Fast is a high school coming-of-age comedy drama centred on the romantic awakening of Luthando. A bright student at an elite South African private school, her world is turned upside down when a charming new student, Ayanda, catches her eye. As their connection deepens into a sweet, besotted romance, the secret relationship cuts against the conservative ethos and strict social norms of the institution, forcing Luthando to navigate her emerging sexuality alongside school politics, peer scrutiny, religious outlooks and an overbearing mother.

Written and directed by Sandulela Asanda in her feature directorial debut, the film is based on her short film and proof of concept Mirror Mirror, which draws on semi-biographical elements of boarding school life. While themes of classism, racism and homophobia serve as an undercurrent, the movie deliberately chooses a lighter touch over gritty social drama. It’d be unfair to label it as a queer iteration of Spud; since Black Burns Fast carves out its own identity by centring the nuanced experiences of a young Black female student, offering authentic insight into segregative private school cliques, alienation and a host of characterful teachers.

Stylistically, the film leans into a playful aesthetic and world of wonder. Drawing visual inspiration from Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and channeling the gentle surrealism of Ally McBeal, its daydream sequences and 8-bit video-game flourishes add a quirky homegrown charm without tipping into over-the-top fantasy. These bubblegum undertones keep the mood peppy and accessible, anchoring the film firmly in a lighthearted and endearing space without ignoring deeper social issues.

“Be mine.”

Esihle Ndleleni delivers a disarming performance as Luthando, bringing a gentle, sweet disposition that anchors almost every scene. She shares a natural, credible chemistry with Muadi Ilung as Ayanda, capturing both the innocence of a high school crush with genuine romantic intensity. The lead duo is ably supported by a strong ensemble of up-and-coming to established South African talent. This includes Adrienne Pearce, Anton Taylor and Rob van Vuuren in supporting roles, who help populate the school’s ecosystem, while Mila Smith adds contrast as Luthando’s best friend and confidante, Jodie.

Black Burns Fast falters slightly in its pacing, narrative tension and there could’ve been more points of identification to further enhance Ndeleni’s gentle charm. Much like its protagonist, Black Burns Fast feels a little self-conscious in the beginning before easing into its stride. However, by treating the secret romance in an unobstructive and matter-of-fact way, there’s little suspense or opposition attached to their secret-keeping, making the stakes feel lighter than they might have been. A significant narrative shift arrives quite late in the game, leaving some of the dramatic conflict feeling underbaked amid tonal imbalances.

Ultimately, Black Burns Fast is an amiable, noble and heartfelt debut. What it occasionally lacks in dramatic urgency, it makes up for with charm, warmth and a fresh perspective on the South African high school experience. Driven by disarming performances and a clear creative vision, it’s a cute, entertaining and bright-eyed coming-of-age story that signals exciting promise for Sandulela Asanda’s filmmaking future.

The bottom line: Cute