Thieves

When Sipho and John go visit Uncle Joshua for the holidays, they accidentally get involved in rescuing Thandi, the local mayor’s daughter, who has been taken hostage by an escaped criminal known as Benson. With John’s bravery and Sipho’s genius, the boys work together to defeat the convict at his own game, ultimately saving the day and making a new friend in Thandi in the process.

Directed by Marcel Joubert, Thieves leans on a strong ensemble — Roy Dlamini, Mandla Ngoya, John Madlala — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about action titles of 1980.