Characters
Clio
Played by Amahle Bhengu
Clio is a 19-year-old woman, who’s past is marked by trauma and abuse. She has experienced memory loss from a near-fatal car accident that has cause her memories to fragment and struggles to piece her memories back together and reclaim her sense of self. Clio’s greatest conflict is her own fragmented memories and uncertain identity, with the fear of what she may discover as she uncovers the truth. As Clio goes on a journey to remember what was to know now what is, she is also seeking to heal and recover from her past and rebuild her present. Clio’s name refers to the Greek muse of history, suggesting a sense of connection to the past and the protagonist’s memories.
Malum
Played by Zukile Habile
Malum is a 20-year-old man who is charismatic and confident in himself, while also showing a side of being controlling and manipulative. He is used to getting his way and becomes a different person when his way is threatened. The relationship between Malum and Clio is seen as loving and caring, with a slight sense of suspicion and a secretive nature. Clio always puts Malum first and gave him everything in life. Malum and Clio’s relationship is complex and with Malum's charming and persuasive nature, it's difficult for Clio to see the truth about him. Malum’s name is Latin for evil or wrongdoing, implying a dark and troubled nature.
Lethiwe
Played by Naledi Mjwara
Lethiwe is a 45-year-old woman who is Clio’s mother. She is a loving and supportive mother, who is desperate to help her daughter recover. She is patient, kind and tries to be understanding of what Clio is going through, even if she can never fully understand. Lethiwe’s character is also stern and fierce natured, but this only emphasises the protective nature towards her daughter. Lethiwe never leaves Clio’s side in the hospital, showing the connection she has with her. Her name is of Zulu origin meaning a gift from God, which emphasises the role that she plays in Clio’s life of protection and guidance to a better life
Clio's Mind
Played by Amahle Bhengu
This imaginary figure acts as Clio’s stable subconscious mind pushing her to remember her memories and who she is. Throughout the film, the figure speaks in a fragmented way, mirroring the fragmentation of Clio’s mind in the present. She acts as the main message to the audience to show that no matter what trauma anyone has gone through, there is a way out and there is better outcome at the end of the dark tunnel.