A clash of worlds: ‘Carissa’ explores tradition vs. modernity in rural South Africa
A new dawn in the Cederberg mountains
In the serene and picturesque mountain village of Wupperthal, nestled in South Africa’s Cederberg region, a seismic shift is on the horizon. The arrival of a multinational conglomerate, with plans to build a luxury golf estate, sets the stage for a profound exploration of tradition, modernity, and the choices that define us. This is the backdrop for “Carissa,” the debut feature from the writing-directing duo Jason Jacobs and Devon Delmar, premiering on September 5th in the Horizons strand of the Venice Film Festival.
The promise and peril of progress
The proposed development, Mont Royale, is seen by many villagers as a beacon of hope, a chance to escape the clutches of poverty. For others, it represents a threat to their way of life. At the heart of this conflict is Carissa, portrayed by Gretchen Ramsden. She faces an agonizing decision: should she pursue a seemingly brighter future in the city, or remain in Wupperthal to take over her grandfather’s rooibos farm, which stands in the path of the impending development?
A journey born from conversations
“Carissa” is not just a film; it is a tapestry woven from the real-life stories and experiences of the Cederberg community. Jacobs and Delmar, who have been artistic collaborators for nearly a decade, drew inspiration from their extensive travels and dialogues with local villagers and leaders. Delmar reflects, “So much of what goes on in the narrative is completely just through conversation and experiences that we had there.”
Jacobs adds, “Our people are just natural storytellers… Having spent so much time with them, there was a deeper understanding of how to approach the story.” This deep, ceremonial experience of storytelling is evident in the film’s authentic portrayal of the community’s hopes and fears.
A fusion of diverse backgrounds
Jacobs and Delmar bring their unique perspectives to the film. Jacobs hails from the arid Namaqualand region near Namibia, while Delmar grew up in the suburban sprawl of Pretoria. Delmar describes their creative process as “leaning into that uncomfortable space, to have conversations that most people, at least in South Africa, would try to avoid” while “learning to get used to the discomfort.”
Their collaboration is a testament to the power of diverse backgrounds coming together to create a shared vision. “These [backgrounds] come together in interesting ways. They intersect. They’re the same and they’re different,” Delmar notes.
Beyond a simple morality tale
On the surface, “Carissa” could be mistaken for a straightforward morality tale of good versus evil, with rapacious capitalists pitted against innocent villagers. However, Jacobs and Delmar’s approach is far more nuanced. They delve into the “tussle between tradition and modernity,” focusing on the human stakes and the complexities of the situation.
Delmar characterizes the film’s central conflict as “an unresolvable problem,” and the directors are careful not to offer easy answers. Instead, they allow the people of Wupperthal to grapple with the moral questions themselves. Jacobs emphasizes, “For the people in the film, for them to be able to know that … they are being seen, that they’re being heard, is a massive achievement for all of us.”
A cinematic experience rooted in reality
“Carissa” is produced by Jacobs and Delmar alongside Deidré Jantjies and Annemarie du Plessis for Cape Town-based Na Aap Prods. The film participated in last year’s Final Cut lab in Venice, where it won the prize for best film in post-production. This accolade is a testament to the film’s powerful storytelling and the directors’ commitment to authenticity.
For cinema enthusiasts, “Carissa” offers a rich, immersive experience that goes beyond the screen. It invites viewers to step into the shoes of the villagers, to feel their struggles and triumphs, and to reflect on the broader themes of progress and preservation.
Watch the trailer
To get a glimpse of this compelling narrative, watch the Carissa trailer and immerse yourself in the world of Wupperthal.
Final thoughts
“Carissa” is a film that resonates on multiple levels. It is a story of choices, of the delicate balance between holding on to the past and embracing the future. It is a reflection of the human condition, of the universal struggle to find one’s place in a rapidly changing world. For those who appreciate cinema that challenges and inspires, “Carissa” is a must-watch.
As you prepare to watch “Carissa,” consider the broader implications of the story. Reflect on the choices we all face in our lives, the sacrifices we make, and the values we hold dear. In doing so, you may find that the film’s themes resonate deeply with your own experiences and aspirations.