Happines Is

SYNOPSIS

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Turning forty was meant to be a low-key, reflective milestone for Princess, but her world is upended when her best friend, Tumi, throws her an extravagant, "unforgettable" birthday party. As the celebration unfolds, the carefully curated lives of the friends begin to crack, revealing hidden truths about their relationships, careers, and personal desires. Amidst the glitz and glamour of Johannesburg's elite social circles, Princess is forced to confront her past and decide what truly brings her fulfilment. The film explores themes of midlife self-discovery, the enduring strength of female friendship, and the balance between public success and private authenticity.

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PROJECT DETAILS

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• Original title: Happiness Is

• Length: 96 min

• Country: South Africa

• Produced by: Bangiwe Selene Productions

• Original language: English

• Shooting format: Digital 4K / Colour

• Streamer: Netflix (Global)

• Release Date: October 18, 2024

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CREDITS

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• Writers: Duduzile Zamantungwa Mabaso, Thuso Sibisi

• Director: Nthabiseng Mokoena, Naledi Ya Naledi

• Producer: Lesedi Siswana

• Cinematography: Kabelo Thathe

• Editor: Miriam Arndt, Quinn Lubbe, Bongi Malefo, Ikaye Masisi

• Music: Samukelo Mahlalela

• Cast: Renate Stuurman, Gail Mabalane, Richard Lukunku, Siv Ngesi, Anton David Jeftha, Rosemary Zimu, O.C. Ukeje, Phaphama Nqabeni

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RECEPTION

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• Visual Aesthetic: The film has been praised for its high production values and vibrant visual palette, particularly for the way Kabelo Thathe’s cinematography captures the "classy and collected" world of the protagonist against the backdrop of Johannesburg.

• Cultural Context: As a sequel to Happiness is a Four-Letter Word (2016) and Happiness Ever After (2021), the film is notable for expanding Black female-centred narratives in commercial African cinema.