Dingaka (1964)

The first time I saw 'Dingarka' was on TV, it made a powerful impact in the late 70s'. Then, after seeing it on Film some years later on a full CinemaScope screen, I understood what gave this slight movie such a powerful look.

The real stars of the film are: Firstly; the remarkably strong 'On Location' Cinematography by South African Photographer/actor Manie Botha (Botha was also known to take an acting role in several films he photographed) Additional Photography is superbly supplied by Judex C.Viljoen. Both these talented folk worked well under the Direction of fellow South African Jamie Uys.

Secondly: Eye Popping Color, courtesy of magnificent IB Technicolor. A process now sadly lost to us. The images were first shot on Black and White film stock, then the Primary Colors are added in the lab by layered dyes. This Color never faded, prints remained with the same vibrant living Color till they literally fell apart.

Thirdly: The tremendous use of Music and Song, with sterling compositions by South African Bertha Egnos. An odd addition to the Music credits was Eddie Domingo who appeared with American Ballad singer Jim Reeves in his only Movie: 'Kimberly Jim'. Reeves, best known for his No.1 world hit record "He'll have to Go" was killed in a plan crash the same year. Not a great deal seems known of the Third member of the Music team Basil Grey. All the compositions within this score are winners and range from gentle songs, to thumping African dance routines.

Ken Gampu gives a never faltering performance as the father forced to leave his tribal grounds - searching for the murderer of his little daughter in unfamiliar and hostile big city locations. His strong performance holds the film together through some of the more shaky moments. Stanley Baker is OK as the big city Lawyer with Juliet Prowse trying hard with a thankless role as his wife.

It's early Jamie Uys (Beautiful People - The Gods Must be Crazy, etc) but his own distinctive style was evident even in 1964. Some character development is at times weak, and there's too much of the tourist treatment for the scenes involving 'local color' ~ but as a clash of cultures piece, it makes for good entertainment. Don't be too demanding and it should reward well enough. KenR.