Semi-soeter – Babies, Big Misunderstandings and Buffoonery
Review
Semi-Soeter brings back Jaci and JP in a sequel filled with pretend-parenting and a few emotional moments. This time, they take part in a marketing pitch for a baby brand called “YBAB.” When JP and Jaci discover that JP’s school arch-nemesis, Joubert, (Neels van Jaarsveld) is their competitor for the contract, their friends step in and lend them their baby. Jaci and JP then find themselves stuck in a white lie to impress YBAB’s CEO, Marietjie, played by Hélène Truter.
Jaci and JP have to navigate a series of obstacles to prove they’re really the baby’s parents and convince YBAB Marietjie of their passion for family. Along the way, they learn that looking after a baby isn’t as easy as it seems and the audience must sit through an overflow of poop jokes, a few of which might even trigger your gag reflex.
The comedy in the film is hit or miss. Some jokes land well and are quite sharp while others feel too simplistic or forced. There is a strong American influence in the style of humour, which causes many jokes to lean into physical slapstick, which can at times feel… silly. Some scenes almost feel like they’re straight out of a Hollywood rom com, rather than a South African story. r.While this may not appeal to everyone, older generations of South African viewers might appreciate it more.
Luckily, familiar faces like Louw Venter and Sandra Vaughn help restore that local flavour. Also, the Afrikaans soundtrack is a highlight. It is authentic, fitting, and full of character. It especially helps balance out the strong American tone.
Neels van Jaarsveld and Diaan Lawrenson are absolutely hilarious. There’s no better way to introduce their characters than to mention their baby’s name in the film is… (deep breath) … Chardonnay! Their chemistry as a couple is fantastic – can we please get a “Semi-Sout” spin-off focusing on their lives with little baby Chardonnay?
The supporting characters are also a mix of hits and misses, and as mentioned, there’s a clear American style to the humour, especially with the face of YBAB – America’s glam granny sweetheart who sometimes leans a bit into kitsch. That said, Hélène Truter is always enjoyable to watch on screen.
Anel Alexander and Nico Panagio return as leads Jaci and JP, and it’s lovely to see the well-known characters back on screen. They look great together, and their performances match the tone of the movie – easy, natural, and with just the right balance of humour and heart. Through their relationship, the film gently reminds us how meaningful it is to trust each other – everyone carries a secret, and it takes courage to be open and honest.
The storyline is fast-paced and energetic, but at times a little messy. However, the ending is surprisingly sweet. As an exclusive Netflix production, Semi-Soeter boasts a production value clearly higher than that of many other Afrikaans feature films. With a noticeably bigger budget, the film features gorgeous visuals – from breathtaking mountain landscapes to luxurious hotels and modern homes. Although the tone and style have a strong American influence, the appearance of two well-known South African rugby players helps root the film in local spirit. Their short but playful cameos remind us that, underneath all the gloss, this is still proudly a South African rom-com.
Semi-Soeter is an enjoyable roller-coaster, with a few standout performances, a strong soundtrack, and just enough heart to keep you watching. If you enjoy local rom coms, there’s definitely something in it for you.
Available from 20 June 2025 on Netflix.
Production Information
Running Time
90 min
Writer and Director
Anél Alexaner en Sandra Vaughn | Joshua Rous
Website
Screens
∞
Age Restriction
13 PG
Cast
Anél Alexaner, Nico Panagio, Sandra Vaughn, Louw Venter and Hélène Truter
Rating
3/5
Box Office
See NFVF
Written by Chanté Steyn
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