Netflix’s new family drama Disaster Holiday is the perfect film for the festive season, blending heartfelt moments with just the right touch of humour and adventure. Directed by Rethabile Ramaphakela, this film follows the journey of Joseph, a workaholic dad whose relentless career ambitions have strained his relationship with his kids. Desperate to keep his job while reconnecting with his family, Joseph plans a “family road trip vacation” to the stunning coast of Durban, conveniently doubling as a crucial work meeting.
Plot
Joseph, a workaholic dad with three kids, an ex-wife, and a new wife, embarks on a journey to mend his strained family relationships. What starts as a heartfelt attempt quickly spirals into a chaotic adventure, setting the stage for the lively plot of Disaster Holiday.
Joseph’s family dynamics are as colourful as they come. His fiery ex-wife constantly watches for his slipups, threatening custody battles at every turn. His three kids add flair to the drama: a studious bookworm daughter, a son glued to his social media fame, and a younger daughter with a knack for disappearing at the worst moments (usually with an urgent need to pee). Together, they create a whirlwind of chaos that Joseph must navigate.
Initially, Joseph planned an idyllic family holiday to Zanzibar with his kids and new wife. However, those plans were scrapped when his boss announced a crucial investor pitch in Durban that week. The Zanzibar getaway turns into a road trip to Durban—a decision met with surprise and scepticism from his household. Unbeknownst to them, Joseph’s job is on the line, and he’s in fierce competition with his colleague Tyrone. Whoever nails the pitch wins the position, leaving Joseph under immense pressure.
The road trip becomes the story’s heart, packed with mishaps and challenges. From their car sinking in a freak accident to young Lily disappearing and Joseph getting arrested, the journey is anything but smooth. As the obstacles pile up, Joseph finds himself questioning his priorities and discovering the real meaning of family amidst the chaos.
Cast
The cast of Disaster Holiday delivered a performance that was nothing short of captivating, breathing life into their characters with incredible energy and charm. It’s no exaggeration to say they felt like a troupe of comedians, seamlessly blending humour and emotion to keep the audience engaged from start to finish.
Lunathi Mampofu, Kenneth Nkosi, Lubabalo Tala, Tina Jaxa, Wayne Rooyen, and Yeya Ralarala each brought their A-game to the screen. Whether delivering witty one-liners or navigating the heartfelt moments of family dynamics, this ensemble cast made every scene memorable and entertained audiences.
Language
The movie is performed in Xhosa, Zulu, Afrikaans, and English.
Summary
Disaster Holiday is a lighthearted and enjoyable film with an engaging plot and plenty of laughs—perfect for a laid-back day on the couch. While the ending might be predictable from the get-go, the journey is so entertaining that you’ll happily stick around to see it through.
