The Goat (2014)

The Goat (2014) poster

Ukwaluka is an ancient circumcision ritual for young men still widely practiced by the Xhosa in South Africa. It marks the transition from youth to manhood. A boy who has just undergone circumcision sits in semi-darkness in a simple hut on a hill, far away from the village, as prescribed by the initiation ritual. He is covered from head to toe with a paint made from clay which makes him look as white as a goat. This should be a period of healing, but he is cold and in pain. His grandfather, who is supposed to induct him into his new life, has not yet appeared. According to the belief system of the Xhosa, Ukwaluka also purges the boy from homosexual desires, for which there is no place in the world of adults.

Director: John Trengove
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 12 min
Release Date:

Cast

Screenplay

Country: South Africa
Language: Xhosa
Original Language: xh

Keywords

tradition, ritual, circumcision, sexual repression, gay theme

More Films by Director: John Trengove
More Films in Genre: Drama

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Goat about?
Ukwaluka is an ancient circumcision ritual for young men still widely practiced by the Xhosa in South Africa. It marks the transition from youth to manhood. A boy who has just undergone circumcision sits in semi-darkness in a simple hut on a hill, far away from the village, as prescribed by the initiation ritual. He is covered from head to toe with a paint made from clay which makes him look as white as a goat. This should be a period of healing, but he is cold and in pain. His grandfather, who is supposed to induct him into his new life, has not yet appeared. According to the belief system of the Xhosa, Ukwaluka also purges the boy from homosexual desires, for which there is no place in the world of adults.
Who directed The Goat?
The Goat was directed by John Trengove.
Who stars in The Goat?
The Goat stars Thando Mhlontlo, Nkosipendule Cengani, Hlangi Vundla, Mbasa Tsetsana.
How long is The Goat?
The Goat has a runtime of 12m (12 minutes).
What genre is The Goat?
The Goat is a Drama film.
Where was The Goat produced?
The Goat was produced in South Africa.