Response to Tsotsi

The use of  diegetic and non- diegetic sounds were essential elements of this film. Arguably non -diegetic sound in the form of the amazing soundtrack played a bigger role. Most of the songs on the album were performed by Vusi Sidney Mahlasela Ka Zwane or Zola, both South African musicians. The songs are in the genres of Hip hop, Afro-Pop, or Kwiato, which is a mix of house music with some African sounds. Being that the story focused around a gang of thugs in Johannesburg that seems very appropriate because those genres originated in the inner cities.  It definitely added to the coolness factor in a lot of scenes. There were a few scenes where Tsotsi and his gang were walking down the street and the soundtrack started playing and it was just amazing. An interesting use of the soundtrack for non -diegetic purposes was used to provide comic relief in the scene where Tsotsi tries to quiet the crying baby. Tsotsi turns on the radio and an upbeat song starts playing and he starts dancing around. It was so cute to watch and definitely puts a much needed smile on your face after witnessing the somber event that proceeded it.