User Reviews

Natural actors. The movie is well paced and love the story line. One of the best to come out of Africa because it maintains and captures very well their accents and behaviours. It manages to tag at the heart without exaggerations. It brings people with albinism into the spotlight and highlighting their current plight. The struggles which parents have to confront within their families and communities. With rejection, acceptance, love, discrimination, self discovery, friendship, death, isolation and anger, fear and joy this movie is worth watching. It may spark a conversation in you living rooms.

In "Can You See Us," directed by Kenny Roc Mumba and penned by Lawrence Thompson, Zambian cinema makes its mark with its first Netflix release. This heartfelt film draws inspiration from the life of renowned albinism activist John Chiti, immersing audiences in the challenging journey of a young boy named Joseph, born with albinism, who grapples with rejection from his own father and navigates a turbulent childhood riddled with bullying, tragedy, and tentative hope. Thabo Kaamba's portrayal of the younger Joseph is a tour de force, evoking genuine emotions from viewers. Her dedication to the role, stemming from her personal experience of living with albinism and facing paternal rejection, is nothing short of remarkable. Joseph's character is meticulously crafted, and Thabo's performance adds profound layers to the narrative, particularly during poignant moments when she breaks down and sings, leaving a lasting impression. While the film maintains an overall somber tone, it surprises with occasional pockets of warmth, humor, and intricate family dynamics, ensuring a compelling viewing experience. The ensemble cast shines brightly, with Ruth Jule's portrayal of Joseph's mother, Chama, standing out as exceptionally moving, while Kangwa Chileshe's depiction of Kennedy, Joseph's father, elicits genuine feelings of remorse and resentment. Under Kenny Roc Mumba's direction, in tandem with cinematographer Rick Joachim, "Can You See Us" emerges as a visual masterpiece. The film captures breathtaking shots that immerse the audience in the characters' emotions, whether through sweeping aerial vistas or intimate close-ups during tearful moments. The use of single-shot techniques during chase scenes authentically brings to life bustling marketplaces and serene forests. While the film boasts formidable appearances by legendary actors like Wezi Banda, some supporting characters, such as Robert Nyirenda, occasionally falter in their roles. Nevertheless, Nyirenda manages to infuse warmth and likability into his character. Kondwani Elliot Zulu, portraying Martin, Joseph's stepfather and Chama's second husband, steals the show with his ability to convey a wide range of emotions, making him a standout character. Despite occasional inconsistencies in supporting performances, "Can You See Us" captivates with its emotional depth and talented acting. Some scenes may necessitate a pause for reflection due to their intensity, enhancing the overall impact of the film. Ultimately, "Can You See Us" triumphs in shedding light on the discrimination faced by young boys and girls with albinism, resonating deeply with the albino community and concluding with a gratifying ending that lingers in the hearts of viewers.

I was recommended to watch it by my parents so I did with my boyfriend. At first he said it was too deep to watch but I said just stick with it, and I'm glad we did. What a heart touching, inspiring and beautiful film. It opens your eyes to the struggles and challenges children and people face with albinism. It really touched my heart and I wanted to bring him home and protect him. The acting was realistic and natural, and you could really connect with the characters. I will be keeping an eye out for similar films made like this that depict real life stories that we don't really know too much about. It was both educational and inspiring. To the Cast and crew- Please make more movies.

I would highly recommend this film.

I am writing this without spoilers, intentionally. I want people that haven't seen this movie and who read this, to understand how incredibly important it is, and to know that it is beautifully made.

There aren't any words that are adequate enough to express how much I loved this movie. Someone reading this might wonder, "Why a 10, though?

My answer is that some things are imperfectly perfect. This is one of those things.

Speaking of 10, this is now in my top 10 favorite movies of all time now, it made that much of an impression. It is a heartbreaking, beautiful story that inspired me to do some research on the movie. Because I care. Deeply. And I'm pretty sure that was the goal: awareness, compassion, concern and love.

Thabo Kaamba, the little girl that played young Joseph, was fantastic in this role. May she be blessed all her life. She is beautiful, and perfect.

John Chiti, whom the story is based on, is now a musician and activist, an advocate for those that were also born with albinism.

I'm so very happy to see a movie about Africa that's actually made in Africa (Zambia), and out of the reach of Hollywood-influence.

Congratulations to everyone that worked on this project and for its success as the first Zambian film on the Netflix streaming service.

Phenomenal directing and production by Mumba and Thompson. The writing was epic. The cast were fantastic. Solid cinematography.

For anyone reading this, understand that in Zambia and some other countries in Africa, assault and violence against people with albinism is not rare. I'll leave you to your own research. It's frightening, and heartbreaking.

I had to stop the movie several times because I was sobbing with grief. I have tears in my eyes just writing this review. The movie is that profound.

An online reviewer said, "A narrative symphony that resonates, long after the last note fades away." Nothing could be more true.

Powerful movie about rejection, hope, love, and forgiveness. Really tough content, reverse racism, but it's handled tactfully. Great script, as most true stories are, then it builds to an ultimate happy, very happy ending. Maybe not as deep, and sordid as this man's life actually was, but his life was portrayed very well. Thoroughly enjoyed the movie and recommend it for all families. Tells a lesson on racism, hate, and overcoming all odds. Also, because it's based in Africa, it shows racism and hate can be directed from people anywhere. Kudos to Netflix for opening my mind to this awesome content.

Great story line and i was amazed to realize the young boy is played by a girl.

Second Zambian movie i have watched after am not a witch on Netflix .

From the onset you see great cinematography, great acting and good character development though some actors overplayed their parts.

No Spoilers here sorry!!

However i wonder why the dialogue is piercing to the ear in most scenes and the movie was only in stereo which rendered my usual Netflix experience.

But Zambia is just a growing film industry and this is the start we look for great projects from them after all the world is theirs now!!!!

This move, so real and powerful that dragged me as a part of it. Knowing Albinos as I grew up in Brazil, I understand people's fear, rejection, bulling & loneliness. Feelings only certain people will experience. You can't share that. You can only show the truth & make people recognize how unfair, cruel & cold people can be. You can then hope and pray for a better world where people will accept everyone for what they are & give them a chance to be part & accomplish something, and be respected and acknowledged for whatever it is they are good at. That's acceptance.

Karyna Barros. Costume Designer.

I haven't finished watching this yet, but so far it sends a powerful message to those with open minds and hearts. I think that many times, many of us don't realize just how much we judge others. Watch this with an open mind and maybe you will begin to understand how hatred forms. Very powerful movie! I highly recommend this movie for every age, race, religion, ethnicity, however you choose to classify it. I wish it could be included in school classes, could be such a game-changer in all societies! I'm 75, was raised in a some-what racist family, though I do do hold to those beliefs, so I watch a lot of films like this to learn more. This has been a game-changer in my mind.

Joseph had to endure so much and I love how he over came everything this is the most beautiful movie I've ever seen thank you both Joseph where outstanding but imma say your Joseph is amazing I I will definitely recommend as I have already told everyone in my family to watch and they love it I was so sad for young Joseph but he overcome anything. Such a wonderful person he just melted my heart I wish I would of been in the movie because you wouldn't never be treated that was shame on people that do not want to get to know you but great job to the hole cast you all where wonderful I loved it and already seen it 3 times.

I definitely recommend watching this film

It is an African Film with African actors based on an African Story.

The film is successful in taking the viewer on a roller coaster emotional experience. It evokes extreme emotions from multiple angles.

The storyline is relatable and the actors were exceptional in portraying their characters, especially young Joseph.

My heart was broken into various pieces and bonded back together in a short space of time.

I read somewhere that this film is actually based on true events. I definitely commend the film makers for what they were able to archive with this film. I think they did justice to the storyline.

I watched this movie for the second time. The story is beautiful and brilliant. The actors who play Joseph are so incredibly inspirational. My eyes are filled with tears with the pain he goes through, his mother goes through. Not to many films can make me sob, but I am sobbing.

This film is not some huge Hollywood production, it's a film that is made from pure love and kindness. It's a must see. I'm so happy this story and the difficulties faced in their village are shedding light on Albinism.

I cannot get the person I use to see who was born with Albinism around my city, I wonder how he is doing, I wonder if he suffered hatred.

Watch this film, but be prepared to cry a river.

What a great film "Can You See Us" ! Love was exemplified in this film and fully mastered home grown bigotry. I was so glad I viewed it and just let my emotions ride this journey with Joseph. The direction and acting was superb. Storytelling is an art and with these words gratified my mind with realities of the characters.

And the Oscars goes to: Can You See Us. Kudos to this enchanting, emotionally driven, and heartfelt and awful injustices with our difference in this movie. I did grow up with a boy born with Albinsm in our neighborhood. I treated him out of curiosity. And not as a negative response. I loved watching this film and remembering my childhood and my plight to receive acceptance or rejection. This movie touched my heart. After seeing the film three times I wanted to know more and how it came to fruition. I first felt was it a true story. Then how did the producers cast the film. The wonderful director that allowed me to sail along with the characters. I can tell you I was so happy researching and seeing the recognition it truly deserves. Nextflix you gave us an outstanding film. With this movie a seed of human transformation was planted. We must keep in mind the value of cinema and how it can change a nation in the 21st century. Please tell your relatives, friends, co-workers, heck tell the whole world to see this film.