Riding with Sugar

Riding with Sugar is a poignant and thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of life in an informal settlement and the enduring power of human resilience. The movie revolves around the story of Joshua, a bright and ambitious young boy from Zimbabwe who finds himself at the mercy of fate. We see Joshua living with his grandmother and father, who is a well-educated and ambitious man. He had been the beneficiary of a scholarship and had a promising future ahead of him. However, due to the tumultuous politics of Zimbabwe, he is forced to flee, leaving his family behind. Despite his father's educational background, he is now struggling to make ends meet, working at a spaza shop that barely earns him a living. Joshua, however, has his own aspirations. He is an avid fan of BMX cycling and dreams of one day becoming a champion. He believes that winning a championship will be his ticket to a better life, away from the hardships and limited opportunities of his current existence. With the support of his grandmother and father, Joshua starts to pursue his dreams, often sneaking out to ride his bike at night and honing his skills. Riding becomes an essential part of Joshua's life, a release from the struggles and hardships that he faces. Through his riding, he finds a temporary escape, and a sense of freedom that is hard to find in the restrictive confines of the informal settlement. The film uses Joshua's love for BMX cycling to provide a glimpse into the world he hopes to escape, a world of possibility and promise. However, fate has other plans for Joshua. One fateful night, a vicious xenophobic attack erupts in the settlement. Joshua narrowly escapes with his life, but his father and grandmother do not fare as well. The attack is a traumatic and pivotal moment in the film, highlighting the brutal realities of xenophobia and the fragility of life in informal settlements. Following the attack, Joshua is left to fend for himself, with no one to turn to. Without a home or family to support him, he must navigate a world that is hostile and unforgiving. Despite these setbacks, Joshua's resilience and determination to pursue his dreams serve as a beacon of hope. Using his BMX bike as a means of escape and a way to cope with his emotional pain, Joshua sets out on a journey to find a better life for himself. The film takes a poignant turn as Joshua rides from one settlement to another, confronting the dark realities of xenophobia and the struggles of living in a country that is not his own. Along the way, he meets a cast of characters, each with their own story to tell and struggles to face, serving as a reminder that he is not alone in his journey. One of the characters, Sugar, a wise and compassionate local woman, takes Joshua under her wing and becomes a source of guidance and support. Through her, the film highlights the human side of xenophobia and racism, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. As Joshua continues on his journey, Riding with Sugar becomes a powerful exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. It is a testament to the strength and courage of individuals who face impossible odds and refuse to give up. Through Joshua's story, the film sheds light on the darker corners of society, challenging us to confront the injustices and inequalities that we often overlook. Ultimately, Riding with Sugar is a film that will leave you changed, it is a film that forces you to confront the realities of a world that is often cruel and unforgiving. Through Joshua's story, the film reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope, always a way forward.