Netflix’s ‘Lobola Man’ is a South African romantic comedy that introduces us to Ace Ngubeni, a skilled lobola negotiator. Ace is known for his smooth-talking and cleverness, which help him succeed in any lobola negotiation. Despite his expertise in matters of love, Ace, a selfish bachelor, doubts the existence of love. Throughout his career, he follows a strict rule: never fall in love with the bride or her family. This rule has kept his track record perfect. But when Ace meets a beautiful woman, his views on love begin to change.
To avoid his feelings, Ace takes on a new client, Duke Maseko, who needs help with lobola negotiations for his girlfriend, Zandile. This new job turns out to be Ace’s toughest challenge, with stakes higher than just money. Directed by Thabang Moleya, the movie stars talented African actors like Lawrence Maleka, Kwanele Mthethwa, Sandile Mahlangu, Primo Baloyi, Sthandile Nkosi, Obed Baloyi, Themba Ndaba, Letuka Dlamini, Nimrod Nkosi, and Sello Ramolahloane. The funny story is enhanced by beautiful cityscapes, making viewers curious about the filming locations.
Where was Netflix’s “Lobola Man” Filmed?
‘Lobola Man’ was shot entirely in South Africa, primarily in Johannesburg and Soweto. During the shoot, the actors and crew enjoyed themselves by exploring the towns and streets surrounding the filming locations.
Johannesburg, South Africa
A big portion of ‘Lobola Man’ was shot in Johannesburg, the provincial capital of Gauteng. The city’s modern skyline, complete with tall buildings, appears in numerous aerial shots and serves as the backdrop for several outside scenes. For interior sequences, the production team most likely employed real-life establishments and properties. They may have also used film studios in the city, including Gold Island Studios, Atlas Studios, Phoenix Studios, Sasani Studios, and Moon Valley Studios.
Johannesburg, often known as the City of Gold, contains many monuments that appear in the film, including the Johannesburg Art Gallery, Hillbrow Tower, Nelson Mandela Bridge, and Brixton Tower. Johannesburg has been a famous filming location for movies like ‘The Gods Must Be Crazy,’ ‘Hector and the Search for Happiness,’ ‘White Wedding,’ ’10 Days in Sun City,’ ‘The Good, the Old and the Greedy,’ ‘A Soweto Love Story,’ and ‘Black Tax.’
Soweto, South Africa
Soweto, part of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng, is another important filming location for ‘Lobola Man.’ The film crew shot numerous key scenes in Soweto, including overhead images of the landmark Soweto Towers, also known as the Orlando Power Station. This defunct coal-fired power station serviced Johannesburg for approximately 50 years. Built in 1951, the two cooling towers today serve two distinct functions: one as an advertising billboard and the other as the largest mural painting in South Africa.
‘Lobola Man’ beautifully depicts the vivid cityscapes of Johannesburg and Soweto, making the film visually fascinating. The locales lend credibility to the plot while also highlighting South Africa’s rich culture and heritage. As you watch Ace negotiate his most difficult lobola yet, take in the breathtaking scenery of these iconic locations.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Lobola Man
Q: Where was ‘Lobola Man’ filmed?
A: ‘Lobola Man’ was filmed entirely in South Africa, primarily in the bustling city of Johannesburg and the vibrant township of Soweto.
Q: Which landmarks in Johannesburg are featured in ‘Lobola Man’?
A: The movie features several iconic landmarks in Johannesburg, including the Johannesburg Art Gallery, Hillbrow Tower, Nelson Mandela Bridge, and Brixton Tower.
Q: When was ‘Lobola Man’ filmed?
A: The filming of ‘Lobola Man’ took place throughout the year 2023.
Q: When is the release date for ‘Lobola Man’?
A: ‘Lobola Man’ was released on Netflix on July 12, 2024.
Q: What are some notable locations in Soweto featured in ‘Lobola Man’?
A: In Soweto, the movie prominently features the Soweto Towers (Orlando Power Station), known for their historical significance and striking mural paintings.
