Laugh out loud with Anel Alexander and Nico Panagio's parenting antics in 'Semi-Soeter'

If you are looking for a delightful movie to enjoy this weekend, look no further than “Semi-Soeter”.

Directed by Joshua Rous, this Netflix romcom is bolstered by Mzansi’s crème de la crème of Anel Alexander, Nico Panagio, Sandra Vaughn, Louw Venter, Diaan Lawrenson, Neels van Jaarsveld and Hélène Truter bringing the script to life. And a rib-tickling one at that.

Firstly, picturesque Cape Town shines in several of the frames. It evokes a European atmosphere.

This sequel to the 2012 “Semi-Soet” kicks off with Jaci van Jaarsveld (Alexander) and JP Basson (Panagio) having their hands full babysitting the rambunctious brood of Hertjie Greyling (Louw Venter) and Karla (Vaughn).

While they love their best friends' little ones, they are grateful to be able to give them back to their parents. 

The career-driven couple decided a long time ago that children were not on the cards. And Jaci’s inability to conceive, combined with JP’s low sperm count, meant they were able to flourish in their careers. 

Despite fleeting moments of second-guessing their decision, they are confident they made the right call. 

However, their world is upended by a major pitch for an international baby brand that could turn the fortunes of their company around. 

At first, it appears to be a smooth-sailing pitch until they learn that Joubert (Van Jaarsveld), a college rival of JP’s, is also in the running. 

The competitive streak between the two overshadows the pitch, with a well-meaning Hertjie and Karla deciding to loan their baby boy, Henry, to their best friends to help them land the deal. 

Meanwhile, Jaci learns that she’s going to be a mum before their busy weekend and struggles to find the right moment to tell JP.

While Joubert tries every trick in the book to outbid JP, the parenting ruse sees the couple warming up to the idea of a family. 

Of course, the best-laid plans go astray, and JP decides to salvage a sports deal in the Middle East to keep their agency afloat. 

Alexander and Vaughn’s script masterfully blends comedy and drama, contrasting the struggles of parenting, such as exhaustion and sleep deprivation, with the pressures of a successful career.

Panagio is always a marvel to watch. Aside from the on-screen chemistry with Alexander, his comic timing is spot on. 

Venter and Vaughn are also a riot with their soft parenting depiction, with Van Jaarsveld and Lawrenson planted as the perfect foils.

Overall, this film is wonderfully cast and directed with a script that is not only relatable but also uproarious. 

Rating: *** solid and enjoyable, though not groundbreaking.