Die Dekonstruksie van Retta Blom – “Ek sien ’n blom.”

“Ek sien ’n blom.” This quote, from the long-awaited film, based on Zelda Bezuidenhout’s beloved novel describes how the main character, Retta Blom, may be insecure about herself in her late fourties, but others see her potential to bloom.

Die Dekonstruksie van Retta Blom is a delicate, humorous, and emotional Afrikaans film that will touch every viewer. Based on Zelda Bezuidenhout’s popular novel, the film tells the story of Retta — a typical housewife who thrives on order, cleanliness, and the illusion of a perfect life. She quickly discovers that this life is just that: an illusion. Retta suspects her husband is having an affair with another woman, and as she uncovers more about his secret life, her world begins to crumble around her.

However, the film is not a typical drama — you laugh, you cry, you gasp for your breath. Retta doesn’t just lose control; she begins to deconstruct herself. In that space of sadness, betrayal, and self-examination, she discovers who she truly is. It’s not just a story of loss, but of what is found when everything is broken down — or rather, deconstructed.

Antoinette Louw is undoubtedly the heart of the film. Her portrayal of Retta is layered, honest, and full of subtle details. She makes us care for Retta — not because she is perfect, but because she is herself. The supporting cast also adds to the richness of the story. Each character plays a role in Retta’s unravelling and rebuilding. There’s a tenderness in how even the most difficult relationships are portrayed, especially the strong chemistry between her and her friend, played by Hilda Cronje.