To be a moffie is to be weak, effeminate, illegal. The year is 1981 and South Africa’s white minority government is embroiled in a conflict on the southern Angolan border. Like all white boys over the age of 16, Nicholas must complete two years of compulsory military service to defend the Apartheid regime. The threat of communism and the so-called “black danger” is at an all-time high. But that’s not the only danger Nicholas faces. He must survive the brutality of the army – something that becomes even more difficult when a connection is sparked between him and a fellow recruit. The film premiered in Venice, where its subtle depiction of unuttered desire and an astute exploration of masculinity received accolades from thrilled critics.

Oliver Hermanu (1983) was born in Cape Town, South Africa. He holds an MA from the London Film School. His debut feature, Shirley Adams (2009), premiered in Locarno. He won the Queer Palm for his second feature, Beauty (2011), while his third feature, The Endless River (2015), premiered in Venice as the first South African film to ever be invited to the official competition. Moffie is his fourth feature film.