Netflix SA film 'Love and Wine' faces copycat criticism
Thandolwethu and Ntokozo, Netflix South Africa's upcoming film 'Love and Wine' has sparked debate after viewers noticed striking similarities to the Brazilian film 'Rich in Love'. As the December release date approaches, we examine the controversy and what it might reveal about creative storytelling in South African cinema.
Image: tvmzansi
Netflix’s new South African romantic comedy, Love and Wine, has stirred debate following the release of its official trailer — with some fans accusing it of mimicking the Brazilian film Rich in Love.
Set to premiere on 5 December, Love and Wine features well-known South African actors including Ntobeko Sishi, Thandolwethu Zondi, Thando Thabethe, Masali Baduza and Bongile Mantsai.
The plot centres on Owethu Sikeba, heir to a wine empire, who makes a bet with his best friend Nathi to swap lives and prove his romantic success is not tied to his wealth. In the trailer, Nathi quips: “These girls wouldn’t even care about you if your name was Nathi Maseko instead of Owethu Sikeba.” Owethu replies: “Let’s swap, and I’ll prove to you that I can get these ladies to love me for who I am.”
Owethu then assumes the identity of a man whose mother works as a housekeeper in his friend’s household. The trailer hints that he even takes on an internship, setting the stage for a romantic test of character.
However, several TikTok users have drawn comparisons between the film and Netflix Brazil’s Rich in Love, which follows a similar storyline involving a wealthy heir who hides his identity to win over a love interest. One user wrote: “Rich in Love (African version),” while another said, “The only difference is wine. In that movie, it’s tomatoes.”
Not all feedback has been negative. Some viewers expressed excitement about seeing their favourite actors on screen. “That’s Michaela Stirling from Bridgerton, right?” one user commented, referring to Masali Baduza’s previous role. Another wrote: “I love how South Africa is really stepping up. I’m definitely watching this.”
Baduza, who appeared in Bridgerton as Michaela Stirling, joins Love and Wine as part of the film’s ensemble cast.
Masali Mabuza, as Michaela Stirling in Bridgerton, has gained herself another role on a Netflix in a film, Love and Wine.
Image: tvmzansi
While Rich in Love tells the story of a young man who lies to escape the shadow of his privileged background, Love and Wine appears to flip the concept — with Owethu trying to prove that his personality, not his money, is what attracts women.
With Love and Wine dropping on Netflix South Africa next month, viewers remain split: some are cautiously optimistic, while others fear another disappointment from Netflix’s local productions, particularly regarding originality.
IOL