Shot in the dark

All hell breaks loose when Thomas comes out of the closet and his dad Thabiso takes aim at his lover Mahlatse.

- IPELENG RAKGANTSHO

Being a closet gay man has become increasingly tricky for bartender Thomas (Themba Manganyi). “He is tired of living a double life and worse, hiding his romance with Mahlatse (Elvis Nkosi) from the world,” explains Themba. To prove his undying love for Mahlatse – and free himself from the shame and shackles that come with hiding their relationship – Thomas reveals his sexuality to his homophobic game ranger dad Thabiso (Aubrey Makola), who doesn’t take the news well. “As expected, Thabiso is fuming. He disapproves of his son dating another man and he immediately orders Thomas to dump Mahlatse or else…,” explains Themba.

If it was as easy for Thomas to get over his feelings for Mahlatse as his dad suggests, he would’ve, especially because most of Risinga Village is just as homophobic as Thabiso. But he can’t, says Themba. “Thomas cares about Mahlatse and for that reason, they continue with their forbidden affair.” In an attempt to separate Thomas and Mahlatse for good, Thabiso will do the unthinkable, resulting in bloodshed and heartbreak.

“MY WAY OR THE HIGHWAY”