Blood Legacy Review: ‘Monarca’ Through The Lens Of A South African

Blood Legacy is a new drama series from Gambit Films Productions, directed by Nozipho Nkelemba, that recently premiered on Netflix. It follows the wealthy and powerful Ndlovu family, whose dynamics unravel following the sudden death of their tycoon patriarch.

Originally created by Mexican writer Diego Gutiérrez and adapted from Monarca, Blood Legacy carves its own niche, telling relatable stories that resonate with both local and international audiences.

Plot

At the centre of the narrative are Bhekisizwe and Madlamini Ndlovu, who have three children: Mandla, Khanyi, and Siya. Mandla, a widower, lives with his daughter Thuli but has a strained relationship with his son Zakhele. Khanyi is married to Akin Adesina, and while their daughter Amahle lives with them, their son Njabulo resides with Bhekisizwe and Madlamini. Siya, married to Gabisile, has a son named Nido and is involved in an extramarital affair with Lungelo Blanco—an open secret within the family. Bhekisizwe, CEO of Spear, a company that has evolved from sugarcane production to construction and hospitality, is under threat from a terrorist group called A6. Concerned about the future of his company, Bhekisizwe appoints Khanyi as the new CEO, leading to family tensions and ultimately his murder. The series follows the Ndlovus as they grapple with this murder mystery while trying to protect their family and business.

Blood Legacy explores themes of corruption, bribery, and the darker sides of power, while also addressing issues such as gender-based violence and the challenges of homosexuality. However, it often feels like it skims over these weighty topics rather than fully engaging with them.

Filled with schemes, betrayal, confrontations, and even death, Blood Legacy builds high tension but ultimately disappoints in its “Harvest Episode.” Although the betrayals are eventually exposed, the expected satisfaction of these revelations is missing. Vusi’s eventual fate, though anticipated by viewers, falls short of the deserved payoff. Khanyi, finally giving in to her desires, is abruptly halted as she reveals a harsh truth to her childhood lover. Yet, this is not the end for Khanyi; the final scenes hint at an important development for Season 2.

Cast

The cast is largely well-chosen, though performances vary. Xolile Tshabalala stands out with significant screen time, while Anthony Oseyemi’s character feels underwhelming and disengaged. Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa brings a strong presence, but even her efforts seem wasted in the overall execution. Buyile Mdladla, in his role as Mandla, brings some tension to the film as its antagonist. However, his plotting and scheming eventually lose their impact, becoming somewhat repetitive and predictable. Notably, Thandeka King and Mduduzi Mabaso are severely overlooked. Connie Chiume’s portrayal of Madlamini was highly fitting, and the choice to have all characters speak in the original Zulu language added an authentic and engaging quality to the viewing experience of Blood Legacy.

Language

Like most South African films, Blood Legacy boasts of rich South African languages like Zulu, Xhosa and others.

The opening scene captures audience’s attention, particularly with Mduduzi Mabaso’s authentic Zulu dialogue, adding depth to his character.

Summary

Overall, while Blood Legacy shares similarities with Monarca, it presents a strong premise that has the potential to engage viewers. However, the repetitive nature of episodes and the focus on family drama detract from the central murder mystery, which remains unresolved by the season’s end. As a result, anticipation for a second season is tempered, given that season one fails to leave a lasting impact.

Production aspects like lighting, design, and costumes are skillful, and the locations in Cape Town and Durban effectively complement the story. However, the editing is erratic; many scenes start and end without coherence, leaving viewers disoriented.

If you have a keen eye for detail, value originality, and expect a complete experience from a film, this one may not meet your standards.