South Africa has had a turbulent history of occupation, discrimination and violence against the black population. With the ANC in power and today in the post-Mandela era, the roles have been reversed. We see a true 'Black Economic Empowerment', in which the black people are favored in terms of housing and employment. The white middle class is slowly slipping into poverty, resulting in violence, excessive drug and alcohol abuse.
Barber Shop South Africa tells the story of this impoverished white middle class who decides to isolate himself from the outside world and settles in strict religious communities in the countryside.
Adri (36) is the white female hairdresser from Filadelfia Ark, a community West of Pretoria. She cuts her hair on a chair outside her bungalow. Her customers appreciate her gentle approach and visit her for an enjoyable chat. Filadelfia Ark has an almost paradisiacal setting, with lakes, animals and an outdoor dining area, but the community exudes a story of fear, exclusion, poverty and religion.
Barber Shop Episode 6 – Pretoria West / South Africa
Director: Luc Vrydaghs
Producer: Emmy Oost
Production: Cassette for timescapes
