Bongile Mantsai discusses the challenges of family loyalty in 'Family & Rugby'

A gripping tale of family, loyalty and tough choices is set to captivate audiences on eVOD with the release of "Family & Rugby," directed by the acclaimed Thomas Gumede.

This powerful drama delves into the complex life of Dumisani, a young rugby star torn between the passion for his sport and the overwhelming struggles of his township life.

Seventeen-year-old Dumisani, portrayed by the emerging talent Buntu Zatu, finds himself in a precarious position. With aspirations of a brighter future as a rugby prodigy, his world is suddenly shattered when his older brother Yongi, played by Ayanda Makhayi, sacrifices himself to protect their mother, Lulekwa (Zandile Msutwana), during a botched robbery.

This tragic event leaves Dumisani grappling with grief and the urgent responsibility of caring for his family.

His father Wawa (Anele Matoti), once a promising rugby player, now struggles with alcoholism, further complicating Dumisani’s journey. As the young man navigates a treacherous path filled with dangerous choices and high-stakes heists, he faces a crucial question: will he manage to escape the criminal influences surrounding him and fulfil his ambitions on the rugby field?

Stepping into the role of Jacob, Queenstown's notorious gangster, is South African acting legend Bongile Mantsai. He embodies the character of a villain who exploits Dumisani’s circumstances, plunging him deeper into the world of crime, driven by the debts owed from his brother’s misdeeds.

Jacob started hustling at a young age after the death of his father. His mother left Jacob and his siblings and ran off with one of his father’s friends. Jacob started housebreaking in the nearby suburbs at age 14. He fended for his younger siblings and built them a dignified home with the proceeds he got from crime. 

Jacob is a very paranoid young man, who does not trust anyone. He quickly acts out on his emotions and does not really process the meaning of his actions. He sees himself as a bigshot and takes on the world with an air of disdain because he truly believes it owes him something. He has a lovable demeanor but is not afraid to get his hands dirty for what he really wants.

"Jacob is driving this whole family crazy because he feels like the world owes him a lot. He doesn't care about rugby and wants to destroy this young man's future ... This story resonates deeply with me as a person from the township. It portrays how easy it is to get caught up in difficult situations while trying to reach for your dreams," said Mantsai. 

Expressing his connection to the storyline, Mantsai elaborates on the challenges Dumisani faces: “He plays rugby for Queens College, a beautiful multi-racial school, but the harsh realities hit home when he returns ... His father is an alcoholic. He once wanted to be something in life but he couldn't. Dumisani's mother works in a supermarket. What interested me, as a boy from the township I related to the story very well. I know how it is to grow up in the township and I know so many intelligent boys from my township who went to school but when you see them now, you ask yourself what happen?

"Is it their decision or is it the problem that we face in our country of poverty. Dumisani then falls into the trap of wanting to save his family but also wants to play rugby ... I know so many young people caught in that predicament. It's a very educational storyline. I know so many people whose dreams have been buried because of their circumstances back at home in the township."

Mantsai continues to illustrate the nuances of sibling relationships, the weight of family honour and the pursuit of personal dreams.

"When we are shooting, we shoot out of sequence, but when I watched it at the end, I felt like there was hope. I saw Dumisani's father, as much as he is an alcoholic, he eventually stands up for his family, whereas in other situations parents might let their kids down, because they give up and then there's no hope for these youngsters. In this story, I see this family standing together. I see Dumisani putting himself first and saying to hell with everything else. The most important important thing for me was that this movie provides hope."

The actor, who is also a youth pastor, finds depth in portraying complex characters. 

"I think these villainous roles chose me. I grew up in church. My father was a bishop and I am a youth pastor so playing these roles is a big gap between my actual life back home and what I'm playing on screen.

"I grew up being this perfect boy who can't disappoint. As a pastor and bishop's son you always have to lead by example and with these roles, every time people question me and I tell them the contrast, they get shocked. 

"Every time I take on a villainous role, I investigate to find different ways to present my character. It always gives me anxiety. Also, playing something so far from your actual personality makes you work harder because it is not familiar," he concludes.

"Family & Rugby" promises to resonate with viewers not just for its exploration of the sport, but for its broader commentary on the struggles faced by many. As Dumisani fights to balance loyalty to his family while pursuing his dreams, the film offers audiences a powerful reflection on the realities of life in South Africa.

Watch the trailer of "Family & Rugby" below.