John Trengove’s adaptation of Mark Behr's novel, 'The Smell of Apples', portrays apartheid-era privilege through the innocent yet insightful eyes of a child.
On September 19, 2026, Variety published a review of South African director John Trengove's film adaptation of Mark Behr's 1993 novel, The Smell of Apples. Following the lukewarm reception of his previous film, Manodrome, Trengove returns to South Africa to explore the complex narratives of apartheid-era privilege from a young boy's perspective.
Trengove’s film meticulously depicts the affluent Afrikaner lifestyle in mid-1970s South Africa, showcasing an era marked by stark inequalities. Production designer Birrie Le Roux has created evocative set designs that act as time capsules, reflecting the cultural nuances of the period—ranging from distinct school uniforms to household objects that elicit strong nostalgia for those familiar with that time. As Variety notes, this attention to detail transforms the film into a compelling visual experience without succumbing to outright nostalgia.
At the heart of The Smell of Apples is Marnus Erasmus, an 11-year-old boy increasingly aware of his family's privileged world intertwined with systemic inequalities and toxic masculinity. The narrative illustrates Marnus's uncomfortable journey toward understanding the morally ambiguous environment surrounding him. Trengove effectively emphasizes how such systemic structures are perpetuated through cultural denial and privilege, questioning the unexamined complicity of those in power.
The film resonates deeply with followers of Behr's novel, which has secured its place in South African educational curricula. Similar to other adaptations like Moffie and Don’t Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight, The Smell of Apples particularly focuses on the reflections of white individuals in a racially divided society, shedding light on the implications of privilege and insensitivity towards the marginalized.
The film has garnered critical acclaim for its nuanced exploration of intricate themes, often overlooked in traditional narratives. Trengove's return to the screen is viewed as a resurgence in storytelling that challenges conventional portrayals of apartheid, urging audiences to reflect upon the generational impacts of past injustices.
Taking place within five pivotal days, the film showcases tensions that ripple through Marnus's family. These dynamics, particularly the relationship between Marnus and his father, Johan, highlight the emotional and societal complexities of masculinity in that era. The film's presentation of power dynamics is evocative, culminating in a powerful visual metaphor that intertwines family snapshots with representations of Johan's war crimes, challenging both characters and viewers to confront the dichotomy of familial love and moral failure.
The Smell of Apples is a vital addition to the discourse surrounding apartheid films, as it pioneers a more reflective engagement with history. By portraying the struggles and moral ambiguities surrounding privilege and accountability, the film not only serves as a poignant reminder of South Africa’s past but also emphasizes the need for honest conversations about race and inequality in contemporary society.
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