Invictus (2009) - full transcript
The film tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of South Africa's rugby team to help unite their country. Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa's rugby team as they make their historic run to the 1995 Rugby World Cup Championship match.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
MAN 1:
Holding. Holding. Ready?
- Yeah, let's go. Up, up, up.
MAN 2: Come on, boys, tackle, tackle.
Good work, boys. Keep it up. Good work.
[CHATTERING]
[SIREN WAILING]
[CAR HORNS HONKING]
[CHEERING]
Mandela! Mandela!
[CHANTING]
Mandela! Mandela! Mandela!
Who is it, sir?
It is that terrorist, Mandela.
They let him out.
Remember this day, boys.
This is the day our country
went to the dogs.
Come. Let's go. Come.
I am now in a position to announce
that Mr. Nelson Mandela will be released...
...at the Victor Verster Prison...
...on Sunday, the 11th of February,
at about 3 p.m.
MAN 1:
There's Mr. Nelson Mandela.
Mr. Mandela, a free man...
...taking his first steps
into a new South Africa.
This is the moment
the world has been waiting for.
MAN 2: And the top news of the day here
in South Africa and around the world.
The recent release
of Nelson Mandela from prison...
...has triggered a power struggle
between the ANC and their black rivals.
There are reports that the government
has been secretly providing arms...
...to these groups,
contributing to the violence...
...that has erupted
throughout the country.
South Africa appears to be
on the verge of a civil war.
MAN 1:
Mr. Mandela has traveled to Durban...
...in an effort to persuade 100,000 angry
young ANC supporters on the frontline...
...to make peace.
Take your knives and your guns
and your pangas...
...and throw them into the sea.
[CHEERING]
MAN 2: After four years of talks,
the day black South Africans...
...have been fighting for
has finally arrived.
For the first time, they are free
to cast their vote alongside whites.
An estimated 23 million people
went to the polls today.
I, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela...
...do hereby swear to be faithful
to the Republic of South Africa.
Never, never and never again shall it be...
...that this beautiful land will again...
...experience the oppression
of one by another...
...and suffer the indignity
of being the skunk of the world.
Madiba!
Here he is. Like clockwork.
That makes him such an easy target.
Yes, good morning.
[LINGA & JASON SPEAK IN
FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
How are you?
- Us is sharp, Madiba.
- Good.
- Linga, how's your mother?
- She's much better. Thanks.
Good, very good.
[TIRES SCREECHING]
JASON:
Linga, watch your left.
Madiba. Madiba.
It's all right.
What does it say?
It says, "He can win an election,
but can he run a country?"
Not even one day on the job
and they are after you.
It's a legitimate question.
MAN: Today marks the beginning
of a new era in South Africa...
...as President Mandela takes office
in Pretoria.
Facing issues that range from
economic stagnation and unemployment...
...to rising crime,
while at the same time...
...balancing black aspirations
with white fears.
I never thought I'd see the day.
I feel sorry for you, son.
You got your whole life ahead of you.
What's it gonna be like now?
- Don't be so gloomy.
- Yeah.
Now, I added vitamins.
There's a horrible flu bug going around.
- You tell Nerine when you get home, eh?
- Thanks, Mom.
Now, I'm telling you, François.
Look at Angola, look at Mozambique,
look at Zimbabwe.
We're next.
They're gonna take our jobs
and they're gonna drive us into the sea.
Just you wait.
Good morning.
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
- Good morning, everyone.
MAN: Good morning.
Brenda, you've had your hair done.
I like it.
Thank you, Madiba.
Yeah, we need to talk about
your cabinet appointments and ministers.
- Give me one moment, please.
- Yes, Madiba.
- After you, Comrade President.
- Thank you, sir.
[PHONE RINGS]
WOMAN:
Office of the president, good morning.
Brenda.
Please assemble all the staff for me.
All those who haven't already left.
Right now? All of them?
- Yes, please.
- Yes, Madiba.
Ladies and gentlemen,
if you would like to follow me, please.
The president would like
to speak with you.
- Here he comes.
- Yeah.
He wants the satisfaction
of firing us himself.
- I'd like you to stay out here.
- Yes, but, Madiba...
I cannot talk to them
hiding behind men with guns.
[MANDELA SPEAKS IN AFRIKAANS]
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
Good morning.
- How are you this morning?
- Fine.
It's good to see you.
Thank you for coming
on such short notice.
Some of you may know who I am.
I could not help
noticing the empty offices...
...as I came to work this morning...
...and all of the packing boxes.
Now, of course, if you want to leave,
that is your right.
And if you feel in your heart that you
cannot work with your new government...
...then it is better that you do leave.
Right away.
But if you are packing up
because you fear...
...that your language
or the color of your skin...
...or who you worked for before
disqualifies you from working here...
...I am here to tell you,
have no such fear.
What is verby is verby.
The past is the past.
We look to the future now.
We need your help.
We want your help.
If you would like to stay...
...you would be doing
your country a great service.
All I ask is that you do your work
to the best of your abilities...
...and with good heart.
I promise to do the same.
If we can manage that, our country
will be a shining light in the world.
Thank you.
[SPEAKS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
- Is it still morning?
- Yeah.
When you get a chance,
can we get the schedule for the month?
[PHONE RINGS]
- Yeah.
- We need to plan security.
Office of the president, good morning.
Yes, sir.
Will do, we'll have that ready for you.
We need more men.
Did you talk to Brenda about it?
Yes. Yesterday.
[KNOCKING]
Ah. That must be Jessie
with the schedule.
Come in, beautiful.
What's this?
Mr. Jason Tshabalala?
That's me. Am I under arrest?
Captain Feyder and team,
reporting for duty, sir.
What duty?
We're the presidential bodyguard.
We've been assigned to this office.
Here are our orders.
You're Special Branch, right?
You'll see that they've been signed.
Well, I don't care if they are signed...
Just wait here.
Sorry to disturb you, sir.
You look agitated, Jason.
That's because there are four
Special Branch cops in my office.
- Oh, what did you do?
- Nothing.
They say they are presidential bodyguards
and they have orders signed by you.
Ah, yes. Ah, yes. Well, these men
are special trained by SAS.
They have lots of experience.
They protected de Klerk.
- Yes, but it doesn't mean that they have to...
- You asked for more men, didn't you?
- Yes, sir, I asked...
- When people see me in public...
...they see my bodyguards.
You represent me directly.
The rainbow nation starts here.
- Reconciliation starts here.
- Reconciliation, sir?
Yes, reconciliation, Jason.
Comrade President, not long ago,
these guys tried to kill us.
Maybe even these four guys
in my office tried and often succeeded.
Yes, I know.
Forgiveness starts here too.
Forgiveness liberates the soul.
It removes fear.
That is why it is such a powerful weapon.
Please, Jason. Try.
Sorry to disturb you, sir.
Just a minute.
Two copies of the schedule.
Thank you, Jessie.
Jason, can we get rid of these guys now?
This is the schedule for the month.
Let's look them over for assignments.
- Right.
- What?
LINGA:
Hey, Jason. I need to talk to you.
How can we trust them?
We can't. That's what Madiba wants, okay?
Let's go.
Are there any special orders
or conditions?
No. Oh, yes.
Madiba doesn't like it if you don't
smile when you push people away.
Seriously?
Yes, seriously. It's the new South Africa.
Madiba?
That's the president's clan name.
That's what we call him.
We'll call him Mr. President.
Can we go through the schedule now?
Can you gentlemen come closer?
[CHATTERING]
How's he going to do all this?
When does he take a break?
He says he rested enough in prison.
- Here's a headache.
- What?
The rugby match.
England against Springboks,
Loftus Stadium.
Gonna be a headache for England,
that's for sure. We're gonna donnerthem.
I don't care about the game.
All I care about...
...is that the president will be exposed.
- To a thousand drunken boys.
Sports fans?
Yes. Sports fans.
Who didn't vote for him.
Who probably hate him.
Who came out of the womb with guns
in their hands.
What?
ANNOUNCER:
Let's welcome captain François Pienaar...
...and the South African Springboks
here in Pretoria.
Today's referee is Colin Hawke
from New Zealand.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
Okay, guys.
I want your eyes on the crowd at all times.
You're staying in the middle of the field.
You're gonna walk in, shake hands,
and walk back and that's it.
- You got it?
- Yup.
Okay, let's go.
ANNOUNCER: Ladies and gentlemen,
it is our pleasure to have with us today...
...at Loftus Versfeld,
our newly elected president...
...Mr. Nelson Mandela.
[CROWD CHEERING AND BOOING]
MAN:
Mandela!
Well, good luck, captain.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you.
- Good luck, son.
- Thank you very much.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- Good luck, Chester.
- Yes, sir.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
Sir.
- Stop him.
JASON: No, stay with him.
- Thank you for honoring our new flag.
- It's a pleasure, sir.
Thank you.
How are you? How are you?
- Good to see you. Good to see you.
- Thank you. Thank you.
- Madiba.
- Hi.
Madiba? Madiba?
We're delaying the rugby, sir.
Oh, yes. Oh, yes, of course.
- Why didn't you stop him?
- Well, you try next time.
- Does he do that sort of thing all the time?
- Ask my ulcers.
- Good thing it was just a cup.
ETIENNE: And good thing he never saw it.
JASON:
Oh, he saw it. He sees everything.
I hate rugby.
Engage!
[GRUNTING]
MAN 1: With you, with you!
MAN 2: Here, onside, onside!
Come on! Now, now, now!
ANNOUNCER:
Try, England.
For England, scored by Ben Clarke,
Number 13.
England, 11, South Africa, 0.
Fuck, man.
[SPEAKS IN AFRIKAANS]
These okes mean business.
We need to focus.
Come, okes, we need to focus, focus!
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
MAN: Let's go, boys.
- Right, come on.
ANNOUNCER:
Conversion is good.
Why don't we do a little work
while we watch?
- We have a lot of promises to keep.
- Yes, we do.
Well, it's not too late,
if the boys can just pick up their game.
If they don't, heads will roll.
Come on, you bloody bastards.
Where do you want to go first
for foreign investment?
Where the money is.
America, England, Saudi Arabia.
How long before the World Cup?
About a year.
Well, it's time enough for improvement.
Mr. President.
Don't get your hopes up.
We're a damn disgrace.
ANNOUNCER:
England, 24, South Africa, 9.
Do you see all those old apartheid flags?
- Hm.
- They're a disgrace.
It is also a constitutional right.
Along with the apartheid anthem, I know.
But it's time people moved on.
Look at this.
All of the whites are cheering
for the Springboks.
All of the blacks are cheering
for England.
We used to do that on the island,
you know.
We would cheer for anyone but the Boks.
It made the warders very angry.
Of course it did.
- Sorry I'm late. How is it going?
ANNOUNCER: Number 10.
Very badly.
Maybe it's just as well.
Why?
I've just been at a meeting
of the National Sports executive.
There's a strong support to drop the
Springbok emblem and colors altogether.
If they play badly,
maybe it's a good time to make a change.
This could be the last time
we have to look at the green and gold.
Fuck, man. This is bullshit.
MAN: François Pienaar's team came
to Loftus Versfeld Stadium this afternoon...
...unprepared and arrogant.
They left 80 minutes later...
...with their tails between their legs
like whipped mongrels.
And I, for one, am glad.
Not because they lost,
but because there is now no way...
...to ignore the fact that we are
completely and utterly unprepared...
...to reenter the world
of topnotch international rugby.
The Rugby World Cup
is now less than a year away.
And I, for one, am relieved
that we are the host nation...
...and therefore qualify automatically
for the tournament.
- Somebody gets the ax.
- Because I am not sure...
...that we would get in on merit alone.
- Who's it gonna be?
Pienaar's team played
without discipline...
...without strategy and without courage.
- And therefore...
- He's trying to get them to drop me.
He's just bitter because the Springboks
were boycotted when he played.
Maybe. But people listen
to what he says.
They brought shame upon our nation.
And I, for one, can say
without fear of contradiction...
...that today, these 15...
...so-called men did not deserve
to wear the hallowed green and gold.
Here's your muti, Madiba.
I warmed the milk tonight.
Ah. You are too good to me, Mary.
Your daughter called
to cancel her visit this weekend.
Did she say why?
No, she didn't.
She said to tell you she was sorry.
I see.
Do you need anything else tonight?
No, Mary, thank you. I will go to bed.
Good evening, Dada.
Good evening, Mary.
- Hello. There you go.
DLAMINl: God bless you.
Thank you.
COLE: Some nice pants for you.
DLAMINl: God bless you.
COLE:
There you go.
There you go.
DLAMINl:
God bless you.
You're a very lucky boy.
It's a real Springbok practice jersey.
I mean, I know it's a bit big,
but it's warm and it'll last forever.
Huh? Come.
Go on, take it, it's yours.
- Why won't he take it?
- Lf he wears it, the others will beat him up.
Because the Springboks
are playing so badly?
No, because for them
Springbok still represents apartheid.
And now for the next item on our agenda.
The NSC executive proposes a vote
on the following motion:
That, as a permanent symbol
of the apartheid era...
...the colors, emblem...
...and the name of the Springboks,
be eliminated immediately.
And that all sports teams
representing South Africa...
...shall be known forthwith...
...as the Proteas.
Now, comrades,
we will submit this motion to a hand vote.
And in the event of a close count,
we'll go to a written ballot.
All of those in favor of eliminating
the Springboks, raise your hands.
- Viva, Proteas, viva!
- Viva!
Both units to their cars right now.
All right, let's go. Let's do it.
BRENDA: What do I tell
the Japanese trade delegation?
MANDELA:
I delegate that decision to you.
- Do you want me to inform the VP?
- No.
We should at least include
the minister of sport.
No.
I strongly advise against doing this,
especially on your own.
It gives the impression
of autocratic leadership.
You risk alienating your cabinet
and your party.
Your advice is duly noted.
Madiba. The people want this.
They hate the Springboks.
They don't want to be represented
by a team they cheered against.
Yes, I know. But in this instance,
the people are wrong.
And as their elected leader,
it is my job to show them that.
You're risking your political capital.
You're risking your future as our leader.
The day I am afraid to do that
is the day I am no longer fit to lead.
At least risk it for something
more important than rugby.
Tell the boys I want to go
to Eersterust, very fast.
[SIREN WAILING]
We, the executive, would like
to applaud you for your diligence...
...and your courage.
Please join us in our anthem.
[SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Comrades, comrades,
members of the choir.
We would only interrupt such beautiful
music for something truly important.
Please, welcome President Mandela.
Thank you.
WOMAN: Madiba.
MAN 1: Welcome, Madiba.
- Thank you.
MAN 2: Mandela.
- Mandela.
- Thank you.
I thank you. Please.
Smile.
Brothers...
...sisters...
...comrades.
I am here because
I believe you have made a decision...
...with insufficient information
and foresight.
I am aware of your earlier vote.
I am aware that it was unanimous.
Nonetheless, I believe
we should restore the Springboks.
[MURMURING]
Restore their name, their emblem...
...and their colors immediately.
Let me tell you why.
On Robben Island...
...in Pollsmoor Prison,
all of my jailers were Afrikaners.
For 27 years...
...I studied them.
I learned their language.
Read their books...
...their poetry.
I had to know my enemy...
...before I could prevail against him.
And we did prevail, did we not?
All of us here, we prevailed.
Our enemy is no longer the Afrikaner.
They are our fellow South Africans...
...our partners in democracy.
And they treasure Springbok rugby.
If we take that away, we lose them.
We prove that we are
what they feared we would be.
We have to be better than that.
We have to surprise them...
...with the compassion...
...with restraint and generosity.
I know all of the things they denied us.
But this is no time
to celebrate petty revenge.
This is the time to build our nation...
...using every single brick
available to us.
Even if that brick comes wrapped
in green and gold.
You elected me your leader.
Let me lead you now.
Who is with me on this?
Who is with me?
Twelve votes. Twelve.
A luxury.
We only needed one more yes than no.
What if you hadn't got it?
Well, you know,
that is the party's decision.
I'm sorry, Madiba, but we've got
problems everywhere we look.
Housing, food, jobs, crime. Our currency.
You can't keep interrupting
affairs of state to placate a minority.
But I must.
That minority still controls the police,
the army and the economy.
If we lose them,
we cannot address the other issues.
So this rugby
is just a political calculation?
It is a human calculation.
If we take away what they cherish...
...the Springboks,
their national anthem...
...we just reinforce
the cycle of fear between us.
I will do what I must to stop that cycle.
Or it will destroy us.
ANNOUNCER:
- 42, South Africa, 20.
Beer tastes like shit, man.
It's not the beer.
Take another.
Everybody, take one.
Pass them around.
Right. I'd like to propose a toast.
To the taste of defeat.
Drink it.
Remember this, and promise yourself
never to taste it again.
You're right, it tastes like shit.
Okay. Here's the schedule
for the overseas trip.
Let me see.
[SPEAKING IN AFRIKAANS]
What did he just say?
He asked when we were supposed
to sleep.
- As well as other basic human functions.
JASON: Hey.
If Madiba can do it, we can do it.
In a common struggle...
...that has brought
about our emancipation...
...and pushed back
the frontier of racism...
...the millions of our people
say thank you...
...and thank you again.
I come here with a message.
People of the United States of America...
...open your markets to us
and come invest in our country.
MAN: And in Japan, President Mandela
met with Japanese officials...
...as he concluded a grueling trip
to the Far East.
And in related news, it was announced
that President Mandela...
...will visit South Africa this week.
[LAUGHING]
Stop it, old man.
Gee, it's cold, man.
LINGA: Morning, Madiba.
- How are you?
LINGA: Fine, thanks.
HENDRICK: Morning, sir.
How is your family, Hendrick?
Top shape, sir. How about yours?
I have a very large family.
Forty-two million.
I don't think I'll walk today.
- We never, never ask him about his family.
- But he asks about ours.
Hey, think about it, man.
He's separated from his wife, his children.
How often do you see them here, huh?
He's not a saint, okay?
He's a man with a man's problems.
He doesn't need us reminding him
about them.
- Good morning, Madiba.
- Good morning.
- Thank you very much.
- Enjoy it.
Yes.
Very good.
- Ah, Brenda, good morning.
- Good morning, Madiba.
- I like that dress.
- Thank you.
- This is for you.
- What is it?
Your paychecks.
You haven't been collecting them.
- What's wrong?
- This is terrible.
It's what de Klerk got,
plus an increase for inflation.
Today President Mandela
announced that, in his opinion...
- Thanks.
...his salary is too high.
Dead right. They're all overpaid.
He has, therefore, decided to donate
a third of his monthly income to charity.
Give me the houses and cars they give him,
I'll donate a third of my salary too.
- You would not, not in a million years.
- Pienaar. Hello.
Hang on a moment, please.
Mandela says that he wishes
to set an example...
FRANÇOIS: Yes. Of course.
...to other leaders and cabinet ministers.
MANDELA: I thank you. Thank you.
- Fat chance.
[MUTES TV]
They're lining their pockets
as fast as they can.
Must be his girlfriend, eh, Nerine?
Oh, he knows I'll bloody well kill him.
[MR. PIENAAR LAUGHS]
NERINE:
What?
Who was that?
FRANÇOIS: Well...
- I told you it was his girlfriend.
Shh!
I've been invited to tea.
- With who?
- The president.
President of SA Rugby?
Count your fingers
after he shakes your hand, boy.
The president.
He wants me over for tea,
week after next.
Mr. François. You must tell Madiba
that the bus service is very bad...
...and too expensive.
He must do something about it.
- Good night, everybody.
MRS. PIENAAR: Good night, Eunice.
Thank you.
What the hell does he want with you?
I don't know.
François, relax, you've met him before.
- I shook his hand on the rugby field.
- And you didn't even vote.
Come on, Nooks, he's still the president.
I play rugby.
What am I gonna say to the guy?
Say to him, "Thank you for inviting me."
What if I pull something stupid
in front of him?
You won't.
Okay, I'll pick you up right here.
- Bye.
MAN 1: There's François.
- François, picture, please.
MAN 2: François, can we get picture?
Yeah, okay. Over here, okay?
FRANÇOIS: How's it?
MAN 3: Can we have a comment?
See who's coming for tea?
Yeah, my nephew wanted me
to get his autograph.
- Who?
- François Pienaar.
- Who wants to escort him in?
- I will.
- Hey, no autographs, okay?
- I know how to do my job, okay?
Who's this François Pienaar?
You can't be serious.
He's the captain of the Springboks.
I like soccer, myself.
Well, you know
what they say about soccer.
It's a gentlemen's game
played by hooligans.
On the other hand, rugby is
a hooligan's game played by gentlemen.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I've heard that one
before. It wasn't funny the first time.
- Can I ask you a question, lieutenant?
- Yeah, of course.
What's he like?
When I worked for the previous president,
it was my job to be invisible.
This president, well,
he found out I liked English toffee...
...and he brought me some back
from his visit in England.
To him, no one's invisible.
That's where you wait.
One of his assistants will come for you.
And the bathroom's over there
if you need it.
Okay. Thanks.
What are our chances in the World Cup?
I mean, for real.
We'll do our best. That, I can guarantee.
[PHONE RINGING]
WOMAN:
Office of the president.
So, what is he like?
Well, he's not as big as he looks on TV.
And we don't stand a bloody chance
in the World Cup.
WOMAN:
Office of the president.
Mr. Pienaar. Right this way, please.
WOMAN:
Yeah. Thank you.
Go on in.
François.
What an honor.
I am so excited. Thank you
for coming all this way to see me.
Yes, sir. Thank you for inviting me,
Mr. President.
So, tell me, François, how is your ankle?
- My ankle?
- I was told it was hurt. Has it healed?
The truth is, sir, you never really play
at 100 percent, no matter what.
Yes. In sports as in life, eh?
- Yes, sir.
- Please, sit.
Take this one.
Looking into the light hurts my eyes.
Mrs. Brits.
You are a shining light in my day.
Yes, sir.
Mrs. Brits, this is François Pienaar,
captain of the Springboks.
[BOTH SPEAK IN AFRIKAANS]
Shall I pour, sir?
No, no. I would prefer to do it myself.
Thank you very much, Mrs. Brits.
How do you like your tea, François?
Just milk, please.
MANDELA:
The English have given us many things...
...including rugby.
But afternoon tea, that is the greatest.
There we are.
Thank you, sir.
You have a very difficult job.
I do?
I have a trading business.
Captain of the Springboks.
A very difficult job.
Well, not compared to yours,
Mr. President.
[MANDELA CHUCKLES]
Well, no one is trying to tear my head off
while I'm doing mine.
Yes, sir.
Tell me, François...
...what is your philosophy on leadership?
How do you inspire your team
to do their best?
By example. I've always thought
to lead by example, sir.
Well, that is right. That is exactly right.
But how to get them to be better
than they think they can be?
That is very difficult, I find.
Inspiration, perhaps.
How do we inspire ourselves to greatness,
when nothing less will do?
How do we inspire everyone around us?
I sometimes think it is
by using the work of others.
On Robben Island...
...when things got very bad...
...I found inspiration in a poem.
- A poem?
- A Victorian poem.
Just words.
But they helped me to stand
when all I wanted to do was to lie down.
But you didn't come all this way
to hear an old man talk...
...about things that make no sense.
No, no, please, Mr. President.
It makes complete sense to me.
On the day of a big match, say, a test...
...in the bus on the way to the stadium,
nobody talks.
- Yes. They're all preparing.
- Right.
But when I think we're ready,
I have the bus driver put on a song.
Something I've chosen, one we all know.
And we listen to the words together.
And it helps.
I remember when I was invited to
the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
Everybody in the stadium
greeted me with a song.
At the time, the future...
...our future, seemed very bleak.
But to hear that song in the voices
of people from all over our planet...
...made me proud to be South African.
It inspired me to come home
and do better.
It allowed me to expect more of myself.
May I ask, what was the song, sir?
Well, it was "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika."
A very inspiring song.
We need inspiration, François.
Because in order to build our nation...
...we must all exceed
our own expectations.
So, what's he like?
He's not like anyone I've ever met before.
Yeah, I hope. What did he want?
What did he talk about? Did he talk
about rugby? What did he talk about?
François. It's like talking to a brick wall.
What did he say?
I think he wants us to win the World Cup.
[CAMERA SHUTTERS CLICKING]
Excuse me.
What do you think?
- It doesn't matter what I think.
- Yes, it does.
Okay.
He looks like one of the policemen...
...who forced us out of our house
when you were in jail.
I don't like seeing you shake his hand...
...and I'm not the only one.
You criticize without understanding.
You seek only to address
your own personal feelings.
That is selfish thinking, Zindzi.
It does not serve the nation.
Zindzi, wait, please.
Zindzi, l...
Here.
- Give this to your mother for me, please.
- What is it?
It's a bracelet I found unpacking.
Why don't you just throw it away?
I don't have the right,
doesn't belong to me.
If she left it, she meant to throw it away.
Mrs. Pienaar said you were
finished with the paper.
Yeah, yeah, of course.
MAN 1: Let's go.
MAN 2: Go low. Yeah, that's it. Good boy.
- There we go.
MAN 3: Hit.
MINISTER: The World Cup is played
every four years.
Sixteen teams qualify
from around the world.
Four pools of four teams...
...each playing in nine different venues
around the country.
Two teams will advance from each pool
to the quarterfinals.
Ivory Coast qualifies. That's wonderful.
According to the experts,
we'll reach the quarterfinals and no further.
According to the experts,
you and I should still be in jail.
MINISTER: You make a personal appearance
at the finals...
...and at the opening match
between Australia and the Springboks.
The finals will be broadcast to over
a billion people around the world, live.
A billion people watching us?
This is a great opportunity.
I reckon you've knocked
the stuffing out of them today.
MAN 1: And now.
MAN 2: Come on, boys.
I haven't even begun.
We may not be the most talented team
in the world...
...but we're sure as hell
going to be the fittest.
Let's go again, guys.
MAN 3: Come on, boys, nut up.
- Shit.
- Brenda.
BRENDA: Yes, sir?
Please get the head
of South African Rugby for me.
- Right away.
- Thank you.
Yep. One more.
Guys, listen up.
Dr. Luyt just wants a few words, please.
Afternoon, men.
Good to see you all working so hard.
I have a short announcement.
As part of the PR buildup
to the World Cup...
...you will be conducting coaching clinics
in townships all over the country.
I know, I know.
You have plenty on your plates already.
But this is a request from the top.
The very top.
Thank you.
This is complete crap, man.
What is this?
What are we, some sort of circus act now?
We don't have time for shit like this.
They expect us to play our best...
...to give our bloody all,
then they add to our bloody workload.
What do you think about this, Chester?
Well, I try not to think
because it interferes with my rugby.
You see? Now, there's a rugby player.
Talk to them, cappie.
Make them understand.
We don't have time for this.
Yeah.
- Yeah.
- I'm not going to talk to them.
Why not?
Okes...
...we've become more
than just a rugby team...
...and we might as well get used to it.
- Is this you speaking or Mandela?
MAN: Yeah, exactly.
You know me better than that.
You know, times change.
And we need to change as well.
Shit.
Yeah. Glad I don't live here, eh?
Around there.
Don't forget,
we've got cameras on us at all times.
What a bloody joke.
[CHILDREN CHEERING]
CHILDREN [CHANTING]:
Chester! Chester! Chester!
Chester, I reckon you're up.
- What am I supposed to do?
- What you do best.
Let rip.
Who wants to play rugby?
Who here knows the rules of rugby?
- Me.
- What is it?
You hit another player
when the ref is not looking.
[MEN LAUGHING]
No, no, no, the first rule of rugby...
...is you can only pass the ball backwards
or sideways, all right? Shall we practice?
BOY: Yes.
- All right. Form a line.
Let's go, boys.
Ready? Okay, pass.
Keep your hands up.
Yeah!
Like this, like this. Pass it here.
I'm here and I'm running like this:
I'm there.
Now... Now... Now you run.
There you go.
And then catch it like that.
So I want you in groups of three, okay?
All right, one, two, three.
[YELLS]
[LAUGHING]
- Bokke!
- Yes!
- Bokke!
- Yes, yes, yes!
[HORN BEEPS]
[CHILDREN CHEERING]
And in addition
to the nationwide PR campaign...
...we propose that all retail outlets
charge a nominal fee for plastic bags.
- We believe that this will generate...
- Uh, excuse me.
Mr. Minister, if you will forgive me,
this all sounds excellent...
...and we will return to it, but if you
will indulge me for just one moment.
MAN [ON TV]: Well, soccer is usually
their favorite sport here...
...but things changed today when a group
of local kids really took to the Springboks...
...in a surprise visit
where François Pienaar...
[CHUCKLES]
You see that? That picture
is worth any number of speeches.
This is part of President Mandela's
"one team, one country" campaign.
This is Johan de Villiers
reporting live from Cape Town Airport...
...where the Springbok flight
has just landed.
- Thank you.
DE VILLIERS: The green and gold...
...have just one week...
...to put the finishing touches
to their grueling training program.
And I, for one, must admit
to being cautiously optimistic.
I say "cautiously"
because in my humble opinion...
...this Springbok team
has been over-practiced on the field...
...and overcommitted off it...
...which makes beating a powerhouse
Australian side in next week's Cup opener...
...a tall order, especially as this is
an inexperienced team...
...with a history of coming up short
in big matches.
This is Johan de Villiers,
live in Cape Town...
...returning you to the studio
in Johannesburg.
MAN: Thanks, Johan, for the update...
- Around the world, objectively...
...what are they saying
about our chances to beat Australia?
Everyone thinks they'll beat us,
and if they do...
...we'll have to go through England
and the All Blacks just to get to the final.
So it is very important
that we beat Australia?
Thank you.
Madiba? The cabinet ministers are here
to brief you on the trip to Taiwan.
Oh, yes. I'll be right out.
Thank you, sir.
One week, boys.
We want snipers on top of the stadium
and the surrounding buildings here.
No problem.
We want those two approaches
completely sanitized.
Two approaches?
We're not gonna decide which way
he comes in until the very last moment.
We want uniforms, plain-clothes,
sharpshooters.
And sniffer dogs.
If you need more men, we have an
army unit for you on standby at Silvermine.
We're not going to
take chances, gentlemen.
The president is going to be exposed.
Much too exposed.
Brenda...
...I have been studying.
For the summit in Taiwan? Good.
No. Not exactly.
Test me.
They look like thugs.
Block out their names.
See if I can recognize them.
André Joubert. Gavin Johnson.
Did I get them right?
Yes, Madiba.
That's the way I used to study
in law school.
Unfortunately, Chester is far too easy
to identify.
But that will change. It must.
FRANÇOIS:
Team meeting after dinner.
WOMAN:
François!
MAN:
Good luck, Springboks!
All right, gather around.
- Pass them around.
- What's this, homework?
FRANÇOIS:
Yeah, yeah. A little.
Make sure everyone's got one.
What is this?
Right. We need to learn this song.
We can't just mouth the words anymore.
Nobody cares as long as
we're winning the matches.
You're wrong, they do care.
It's their bloody song, not ours.
- Flipping terrorist song, man.
- They used to arrest you for singing it.
Right, and now it's one of our anthems.
I can't even read it
or pronounce the words.
All right, okes, it's optional.
Take it if you want to.
It means "God Bless Africa."
Which, you have to admit, we could use.
Tell us, Mr. President,
have you always been a rugby fan?
People don't realize
that I played rugby myself...
...when I was a student at Fort Hare.
It is a very rough game,
almost as rough as politics.
How do you think the Springboks
will do?
Oh, I think they will do very well.
Their level of commitment is tremendous.
Now, it's been said
that you used to support any team...
...that played against the Springboks.
Yes, well,
obviously that is no longer true.
I am 100 percent behind our boys.
After all, if I cannot change
when circumstances demand it...
...how can I expect others to?
- François.
- Welcome, Mr. President.
Gentlemen.
Forgive me for interrupting your work
the day before such an important match.
But I just wanted to come
and wish you good luck in person.
Sometimes, very seldom, as president,
I am allowed to do what I want.
- Mr. President. This is...
- Oh, I know who this is.
- André. Good luck.
- Pleased to meet you. Thank you, sir.
- Brendan. Good luck to you.
- Mr. President.
- Gavin.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck. James.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- Japie.
- Thanks, sir.
Good luck.
- Did you ever imagine this?
MANDELA: Good luck.
How could I?
- It's an honor, sir.
- Thank you. Good luck.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
Thank you.
- Good luck to you.
- Thank you, sir.
- Sir.
- Good luck.
- Sir.
- Good luck, son.
Good luck.
- Hennie, good luck.
- Sir.
But...
...where is Chester?
- He's injured, sir.
- Hm?
His hamstring.
We're trying to keep it quiet.
Well, will he be out
for the entire tournament?
With hamstrings, who knows?
We'll miss him.
The whole country will miss him.
- Well, gentlemen...
- Mr. President, sir.
- Yes, Hennie?
- This is for you from us.
I am honored, gentlemen.
Truly honored.
And you must know that...
...your country supports you completely.
Good luck to you all.
- Thank you, sir.
- François, walk with me.
I have something for you.
It has helped me through the years.
I hope it helps you.
Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you.
MARY:
It's time for bed, Dada.
I'm going to stay up a while.
The country is excited tonight.
You need to sleep, the doctor said.
The doctor has no sense of occasion.
MAN: A good clearance
from the base of the scrum.
A good result here today.
It's perfect conditions
in front of a full house.
Strong tackle. Nice offload.
[KNOCKING]
Hello.
- Thank you.
- Thank you, sir.
You know what's the best thing
about you being the captain?
- The honor?
- No.
You don't have to share a room.
- No, no, no. I can't, I can't.
- Come on, François, it's been weeks.
I need to be angry. I know, it's working.
I need to be angry tomorrow.
What's this?
A poem from the president.
How does a poem help you play rugby?
The same way your visit does.
Inspiration.
[GRUNTING]
MAN:
Here we go!
Heads up! Heads up!
- What happened?
- We scored.
MAN:
Come on!
ANNOUNCER:
Try, Australia.
[GRUNTING]
Yes.
Number 10, Stransky.
Yes! Yes!
- We won.
- We did?
Good, Dada.
- Very good.
- It's beautiful, Dada.
- Well, then, what do you say now?
- Well, that was fantastic.
[VIOLINS PLAYING]
You must be very happy.
Any man would be happy dancing
with a beautiful lady like you.
- Mr. President, you're exaggerating.
- Not at all.
My father was Xhosa,
so he was a polygamist.
As you know, I am not.
But when I look at you, I envy my father.
[LAUGHING]
MEN [SINGING]:
Here's to Joel, he's so blue
He's a drunkard through and through
He's a bastard, so they say
He tried to go to heaven
But he went the other way
Say one, two, three, four, hey!
Coach's run, 6 a.m.
- What?
- Pass it on.
- Coach's run, 6 a.m.
MAN: You gotta be kidding me.
- Six. Drink up.
- Nothing more for you then.
Joel, coach's run, 6. Six a.m.
Hey, guys. I hope you're
not going to be this slow next week.
- Hi, Nooks.
- Cappie, what's going on?
- A change of pace. Come.
- You sneaky bugger.
FRANÇOIS:
Here you go. Come on, guys. Come.
[HORN BLOWS]
They used to smuggle gravel
in from the yard...
...throw it across the floor.
They could hear the wardens coming.
Oh, wow.
- Can we see the president's cell?
- Yes. Yes, of course.
Lord, can you believe this?
Now, the number on the door, 46664...
...means he was the 466th prisoner
to be interned here in 1964.
We've done it up just the way it was.
Come with me.
MANDELA [IN VOICE-OVER]:
Out of the night that covers me
Black as the Pit from pole to pole
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of fate
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate
How charged with punishment the scroll
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
Over there.
[GROANS]
Dada? Madiba?
Sir?
What happened?
It's simple exhaustion, but it will lead
to worse if it's not treated.
He needs a complete rest.
And I don't mean just simply shifting
the affairs of the state to his bedroom.
No phone calls, no visitors,
no meetings, no politics.
You know him, he won't do that.
- Then I'm going to put him in isolation.
- Not yet. I'll threaten him with hospital...
...if he doesn't behave.
- I'll cancel everything.
And I'll come back tonight
to make sure he's not working.
Don't cancel the trip to Taiwan, not yet.
[SPEAKS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Chester's back.
MAN:
Okay, back to the line.
[GRUNTING]
ANNOUNCER: Try to South Africa
scored by Chester Williams.
[CROWD CHEERING]
All right.
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Fuck you, pussy.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Ball's trapped, green put-in.
ANNOUNCER: Game over. Final score:
South Africa, 42, Samoa, 14.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
- Madiba?
- Hm?
- This is the delegation that you have been...
- Oh, I know who this is.
Welcome. Thank you for coming
so far to see me.
Thank you. How do you do?
- I'm fine. Welcome.
- Thank you very much.
ANNOUNCER: Ladies and gentlemen,
we apologize for the rain delay.
The semifinal match between South Africa
and France will begin as soon as possible.
- This is it, let's go.
MAN: Let's go!
MAN: Expect it to grow faster
than other sectors in the next few years.
Manufacturing accounts for 40...
[GRUNTING]
MAN: To promote
our international business alliances.
Strong industries have developed
in shipping and computers.
- Our information...
- Please, excuse me.
MAN:
Yes, Mr. President, of course.
Gentlemen, let us continue
in 10 minutes.
[CHUCKLING]
This is good, very good.
So who is our next opponent?
The All Blacks play England tomorrow.
Then we'll know.
I see.
Well, you will make sure that
my schedule is free for the entire match.
Oh, yes, Dada.
This is good. This is very good.
Brilliant.
MAN 1: Look at the power of that man.
MAN 2: There he goes. Two.
MAN 3: Cheers, mate.
- Beautiful try.
His All Black teammates come
to congratulate the big fella yet again.
Lomu is becoming
one of the most intimidating...
Why don't we do a little work
while we're here?
Just enjoy the rugby.
- World Cup semifinal against England.
Good clearance from the base
of the scrum.
So let me understand this.
The All Blacks are killing a team
that trashed us last year.
- Thanks for reminding me.
- Yes.
- And he is...
- We're gonna really have to tackle...
...a lot better than the English.
- Yeah. For sure.
- We do.
- For sure, yeah.
That is Lomu's second try this afternoon.
This guy really likes scoring tries
against the English...
Are those the judicial appointments
for the Free States?
They'll keep until after the match.
There's the kick.
I am the president, you know.
And the conversion is good.
Are you watching this guy?
He's about your size, but...
- How much does this Lomu guy weigh?
MAN: About 120 kilos.
Shit. It's the same as me.
Yeah, but you're slow.
Lomu looks for contact
every time he gets the ball.
- Yep.
- That's good for us.
Yep.
I will break my arm, my leg, my neck,
but I will not let that freaking guy go.
Me too, cappie. Me too.
- With you, cappie. With you.
- All the way.
A lot of pushing in the lineup over there.
Players jostling for position.
Try to spin it when you pass it, yeah?
Like this:
[MEN LAUGHING]
MAN 1: Yes.
MAN 2: No.
Touch.
ETIENNE:
You must fly in there.
Still think I'm wasting my time
with the rugby?
- He's in the clear and he will go...
MANDELA: Brenda.
Please tell the minister of sport...
...I would like a full report
on the All Blacks.
- This rugby.
- Hm?
It's still strictly political?
Oh, yes. Oh, yes. Of course.
- And over the try line as well.
MRS. PIENAAR: Sweetheart.
- Hello.
- Hello, Nerine.
- François.
- Don't lose them, won't be able to get more.
- Thanks, François.
Me, Mum, Nerine.
Wait, there's a fourth.
Who's that for?
The All Blacks beat Ireland 43 to 19.
- I see.
- They beat Wales 34 to 9.
- I see.
- They beat Japan 145 to 17.
A hundred and forty-five points?
In one match?
It's a new international record.
They beat Scotland 48 to 30
in the quarterfinals.
- You saw the match with England.
- Yes.
Forty-five to 29,
and it was not that close.
They seem unstoppable.
If the opposing team played them
straight up, Jonah Lomu runs wild.
If they focus on Lomu,
that leaves others free.
And also,
there's the business of the haka.
A Maori war dance.
Yes. It is very powerful.
My sources tell me that
half of the All Black matches...
...are won before the first whistle
because of it.
How can we beat them?
I have the coach's number.
Maybe you could call him and ask.
No, no, I don't want to distract their focus,
even for one minute.
But how can we win?
Maybe we won't. They're favored 2-to-1.
Madiba, we have already exceeded
all expectations, on and off the field.
It's not enough. Not now. Not so close.
This country is hungry for greatness.
Brought one of your mum's
protein shakes.
Thinking about tomorrow?
No.
Tomorrow's taken care of,
one way or another.
I was thinking about how you
spend 30 years in a tiny cell...
...and come out ready to forgive
the people who put you there.
Come on, man.
There's nothing more you can do today.
Have I ever mentioned to you
that I hate rugby?
Once or twice. Yes.
I just wanna get him through
tomorrow safely, that's all.
We all do.
[PEOPLE CHEERING]
The tickets sold out long before
the team became popular.
There's not exactly going to be
the rainbow nation out there.
And that's the reality.
Now, all it takes is one idiot
trying to make a statement...
...or one fool who thinks that he hears God
speaking to him through the radio.
It has happened before, but not today.
Not on our watch and not today.
- Flag face, 5 rand. Flag face.
- Oh, bugger off.
It's all right.
We are at Ellis Park on this historic day...
...where even this early,
crowd expectation is at fever pitch...
...because their beloved
green and gold...
...has somehow managed
to defy all expectations.
But now, they come up against a team
unlike any they have placed before.
These All Blacks are possibly one
of the greatest international sides ever...
...with a player in Jonah Lomu...
...who is as dominant as any
this correspondent has ever seen.
MAN 1:
Madiba!
WOMAN: Madiba!
MAN 2: Madiba!
MAN 3:
Madiba!
CROWD [CHEERING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
Final approach, captain.
Let it be noted that
I'm taking control of the aircraft.
Duly noted.
I take full responsibility
for what happens from now on.
Do you see that jet to the east?
ETIENNE: They get clearance for this?
- Not from us.
Where is he?
VIP box.
Let's get him out of there now.
No time.
What the hell was that?
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
- Bokke!
- Yes!
Come on.
ANNOUNCER:
Welcome to Ellis Park, Johannesburg...
...and the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Please welcome
the South African Springboks.
[CROWD CHEERING]
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
ANNOUNCER:
And the New Zealand All Blacks.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
All Blacks! All Blacks! All Blacks!
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
ANNOUNCER:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome...
...the president of the Republic
of South Africa, Mr. Nelson Mandela.
[CROWD CHEERING]
MAN [ON TV]: Dr. Nelson Mandela,
the president of South Africa...
...in the rugby jersey
with a Number 6 on its back.
The All Blacks won't like that.
François, your country
is very proud of you.
Thank you, sir.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- This is Ruben Kruger.
- Mr. President.
- Hi. Good luck to you, son.
- Thank you.
Good luck to you, son.
The dignities out there
with Dr. Mandela...
Chester.
I want you to know that
your whole country is supporting you.
- Good luck.
- Thank you, sir.
Good luck, son.
What dramatic moments here
at Ellis Park.
I don't think I've ever seen
so many flags in one stadium.
- Hi.
- Our captain.
An honor, sir.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
- Jonah.
- Good afternoon, sir.
- Nice to see you.
- Thank you.
I'm a little afraid of you.
And that's big Jonah LomuV
a big day for him.
- You all be careful now.
- Yeah.
Good luck.
CROWD [CHEERING]:
Nelson! Nelson! Nelson!
Dr. Mandela just lifting his cap
to the 62,000 people...
Eunice!
Wonderful aerial shot
of Ellis Park Stadium.
[CHOIR SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE
ON TV]
A very emotional moment for both teams.
Ladies and gentlemen,
the national anthem of South Africa.
South African national anthems.
[SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
What an unbelievable spectacular here
in Johannesburg.
[CROWD CHEERING]
ANNOUNCER:
The match will now begin.
MAN:
All right.
Perhaps we should make a little wager.
All your gold for all our sheep.
Well, I was thinking
more along the lines of a case of wine.
ANNOUNCER 1:
The celebration's over.
We're now down to the big game
and we await the haka of New Zealand.
[YELLING IN MAORl]
Well, that's the challenge that's laid down
by the Maoris before going into battle.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Outside, outside!
ANNOUNCER 2:New Zealand with the best
attacking side of the tournament.
ANNOUNCER 1: This first 20 minutes
will be absolutely critical.
South Africa has the weight advantage
in the scrums...
...but I don't think many people have
seen a weak New Zealand scrum.
[MEN SPEAKING
IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Put it out!
South Africa had it in the maul
and they should've played it.
Good interplay by New Zealand.
Now, here's a chance for them.
Engage.
Break.
Come, boys.
What the heck are we doing?
Lomu is culling us.
Forwards, we must start scrumming.
We must disrupt him at the first phase.
Can't allow Lomu to get the ball in space.
He's freaking killing us.
But listen, if Lomu gets the ball,
whoever's there...
...James, Joost...
...hit the fucking guy,
hold onto him, hold him.
Help will come, help will be there.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
We can see that New Zealand
were looking to try...
...and stretch the game to the left to Jonah
Lomu, and give him some time and space.
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Most of the opportunities
have gone New Zealand's way.
Now, now, now!
Penalty. Carrying the ball.
That's the mark.
Captain. Posts.
ANNOUNCER: Kick is good.
Number 10, Andrew Mehrtens.
First blood to New Zealand.
Great all-around fly half
is Andrew Mehrtens...
...born here in South Africa in Durban.
And now Stransky gets a kick that's every
bit as important as the one that Mehrtens...
The kick is good.
Number 10, Joel Stransky.
New Zealand to restart.
REFEREE:
Penalty. Carrying the ball.
Posts.
Such an important kick for New Zealand.
The penalty kick is converted.
Andrew Mehrtens for New Zealand.
The score now:
New Zealand, 6, South Africa, 3.
It's a great kick from Mehrtens.
Thirteen minutes gone.
They're at 6 points to 3,
New Zealand leads South Africa.
MAN 1: Release the ball.
MAN 2: Come on.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
About 21 minutes gone.
Both teams, up on it, 6 points each.
Boks kick a goal for the lead
for the first time in the match.
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
MAN:
Last feet.
Stay. Stay.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
ANNOUNCER:
Successful attempt for New Zealand.
MAN:
Wide, wide!
ANNOUNCER:
Unsuccessful kick. The score remains 9-9.
That's the closing score, 9 points all.
And now there will be
a five-minute break.
This is the first final in the history of the
World Cup where we're having extra time.
Extra time.
So, what does this mean?
Extra time. Twenty minutes.
I don't think I can take it.
ANNOUNCER: It'll be a test of great character
in these last 20 minutes of this match.
Who's the fittest team on this field?
Outside, outside!
REFEREE:
Crouch. Engage!
Break.
Penalty.
ANNOUNCER:
New Zealand, 12, South Africa, 9.
A great kick from Andrew Mehrtens.
Well, he certainly had length in reserve...
...because it was high, high
above the crossbar...
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
REFEREE:
Penalty against green.
Time off.
- Five minutes, sir.
- François.
Too many guys off their feet at the rucks.
- Okay.
- Speak to your team.
- I'll talk to them. Speak to them.
- Yes.
[CROWD SINGING
IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
ANNOUNCER:
Switch to Jonah Lomu.
Big man's been quiet in this match
and that's credit to South Africa's...
Heads up.
Look in my eyes.
Do you hear?
Listen to your country.
Seven minutes.
Seven minutes.
Defense, defense, defense.
This is it.
This is our destiny.
- Come, Bokke! Come!
- Yeah!
Come on!
How long before the end?
- Seven minutes.
- Seven minutes.
New Zealand leads by 12 points to 9.
This will be the longest seven minutes
that those 15...
Spin, spin!
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Yes! Yes, Bokke!
Stransky, this time, has got this kick
of immense importance for his country.
Yeah.
ANNOUNCER:
Five minutes in extra playing time.
MAN:
Now, now!
And that is the way
one can get a big man coming...
Joost!
MAN:
And squeeze.
Joost!
Has he got it?
[CROWD CHEERING]
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
ANNOUNCER: With minutes remaining,
South Africa takes the lead, 15 to 12.
Yes!
Fifteen points to 12.
South Africa!
[CHUCKLES]
[CROWD SINGING]
Ellis on the outside.
Great play here by Marc Ellis
in reading the game, but he can't take...
South Africa will have go into the scrum...
MAN:
Drive!
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
They've won!
- Yes!
- Yeah!
Yes!
Chester, will you lead us in a prayer?
Thanks, Lord,
for getting us into this final.
Thanks for no serious injuries.
And most of all,
thanks for the win. Amen.
Amen.
Good game.
Marvelous. Marvelous.
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
Good job.
[SINGING INDISTINCTLY]
François, a few words.
Great game.
But you couldn't have done it
without the amazing support...
...of 63,000 South Africans here today.
Yeah. We didn't have the support
of 60,000 South Africans.
We had the support
of 43 million South Africans.
[CHEERING]
I want to thank you
for what you have done for our country.
No, Mr. President, thank you
for what you have done for our country.
Yeah, it's beautiful, it's beautiful,
it's beautiful.
This route is crowded.
Let's change to route C.
Okay.
There's no hurry here. No hurry at all.
LINGA:
Madiba says there's no need to hurry.
Yeah.
It's good, it's good, it's good.
MANDELA:
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
[ENGLISH SDH]
MAN 1:
Holding. Holding. Ready?
- Yeah, let's go. Up, up, up.
MAN 2: Come on, boys, tackle, tackle.
Good work, boys. Keep it up. Good work.
[CHATTERING]
[SIREN WAILING]
[CAR HORNS HONKING]
[CHEERING]
Mandela! Mandela!
[CHANTING]
Mandela! Mandela! Mandela!
Who is it, sir?
It is that terrorist, Mandela.
They let him out.
Remember this day, boys.
This is the day our country
went to the dogs.
Come. Let's go. Come.
I am now in a position to announce
that Mr. Nelson Mandela will be released...
...at the Victor Verster Prison...
...on Sunday, the 11th of February,
at about 3 p.m.
MAN 1:
There's Mr. Nelson Mandela.
Mr. Mandela, a free man...
...taking his first steps
into a new South Africa.
This is the moment
the world has been waiting for.
MAN 2: And the top news of the day here
in South Africa and around the world.
The recent release
of Nelson Mandela from prison...
...has triggered a power struggle
between the ANC and their black rivals.
There are reports that the government
has been secretly providing arms...
...to these groups,
contributing to the violence...
...that has erupted
throughout the country.
South Africa appears to be
on the verge of a civil war.
MAN 1:
Mr. Mandela has traveled to Durban...
...in an effort to persuade 100,000 angry
young ANC supporters on the frontline...
...to make peace.
Take your knives and your guns
and your pangas...
...and throw them into the sea.
[CHEERING]
MAN 2: After four years of talks,
the day black South Africans...
...have been fighting for
has finally arrived.
For the first time, they are free
to cast their vote alongside whites.
An estimated 23 million people
went to the polls today.
I, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela...
...do hereby swear to be faithful
to the Republic of South Africa.
Never, never and never again shall it be...
...that this beautiful land will again...
...experience the oppression
of one by another...
...and suffer the indignity
of being the skunk of the world.
Madiba!
Here he is. Like clockwork.
That makes him such an easy target.
Yes, good morning.
[LINGA & JASON SPEAK IN
FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
How are you?
- Us is sharp, Madiba.
- Good.
- Linga, how's your mother?
- She's much better. Thanks.
Good, very good.
[TIRES SCREECHING]
JASON:
Linga, watch your left.
Madiba. Madiba.
It's all right.
What does it say?
It says, "He can win an election,
but can he run a country?"
Not even one day on the job
and they are after you.
It's a legitimate question.
MAN: Today marks the beginning
of a new era in South Africa...
...as President Mandela takes office
in Pretoria.
Facing issues that range from
economic stagnation and unemployment...
...to rising crime,
while at the same time...
...balancing black aspirations
with white fears.
I never thought I'd see the day.
I feel sorry for you, son.
You got your whole life ahead of you.
What's it gonna be like now?
- Don't be so gloomy.
- Yeah.
Now, I added vitamins.
There's a horrible flu bug going around.
- You tell Nerine when you get home, eh?
- Thanks, Mom.
Now, I'm telling you, François.
Look at Angola, look at Mozambique,
look at Zimbabwe.
We're next.
They're gonna take our jobs
and they're gonna drive us into the sea.
Just you wait.
Good morning.
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
- Good morning, everyone.
MAN: Good morning.
Brenda, you've had your hair done.
I like it.
Thank you, Madiba.
Yeah, we need to talk about
your cabinet appointments and ministers.
- Give me one moment, please.
- Yes, Madiba.
- After you, Comrade President.
- Thank you, sir.
[PHONE RINGS]
WOMAN:
Office of the president, good morning.
Brenda.
Please assemble all the staff for me.
All those who haven't already left.
Right now? All of them?
- Yes, please.
- Yes, Madiba.
Ladies and gentlemen,
if you would like to follow me, please.
The president would like
to speak with you.
- Here he comes.
- Yeah.
He wants the satisfaction
of firing us himself.
- I'd like you to stay out here.
- Yes, but, Madiba...
I cannot talk to them
hiding behind men with guns.
[MANDELA SPEAKS IN AFRIKAANS]
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
Good morning.
- How are you this morning?
- Fine.
It's good to see you.
Thank you for coming
on such short notice.
Some of you may know who I am.
I could not help
noticing the empty offices...
...as I came to work this morning...
...and all of the packing boxes.
Now, of course, if you want to leave,
that is your right.
And if you feel in your heart that you
cannot work with your new government...
...then it is better that you do leave.
Right away.
But if you are packing up
because you fear...
...that your language
or the color of your skin...
...or who you worked for before
disqualifies you from working here...
...I am here to tell you,
have no such fear.
What is verby is verby.
The past is the past.
We look to the future now.
We need your help.
We want your help.
If you would like to stay...
...you would be doing
your country a great service.
All I ask is that you do your work
to the best of your abilities...
...and with good heart.
I promise to do the same.
If we can manage that, our country
will be a shining light in the world.
Thank you.
[SPEAKS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
- Is it still morning?
- Yeah.
When you get a chance,
can we get the schedule for the month?
[PHONE RINGS]
- Yeah.
- We need to plan security.
Office of the president, good morning.
Yes, sir.
Will do, we'll have that ready for you.
We need more men.
Did you talk to Brenda about it?
Yes. Yesterday.
[KNOCKING]
Ah. That must be Jessie
with the schedule.
Come in, beautiful.
What's this?
Mr. Jason Tshabalala?
That's me. Am I under arrest?
Captain Feyder and team,
reporting for duty, sir.
What duty?
We're the presidential bodyguard.
We've been assigned to this office.
Here are our orders.
You're Special Branch, right?
You'll see that they've been signed.
Well, I don't care if they are signed...
Just wait here.
Sorry to disturb you, sir.
You look agitated, Jason.
That's because there are four
Special Branch cops in my office.
- Oh, what did you do?
- Nothing.
They say they are presidential bodyguards
and they have orders signed by you.
Ah, yes. Ah, yes. Well, these men
are special trained by SAS.
They have lots of experience.
They protected de Klerk.
- Yes, but it doesn't mean that they have to...
- You asked for more men, didn't you?
- Yes, sir, I asked...
- When people see me in public...
...they see my bodyguards.
You represent me directly.
The rainbow nation starts here.
- Reconciliation starts here.
- Reconciliation, sir?
Yes, reconciliation, Jason.
Comrade President, not long ago,
these guys tried to kill us.
Maybe even these four guys
in my office tried and often succeeded.
Yes, I know.
Forgiveness starts here too.
Forgiveness liberates the soul.
It removes fear.
That is why it is such a powerful weapon.
Please, Jason. Try.
Sorry to disturb you, sir.
Just a minute.
Two copies of the schedule.
Thank you, Jessie.
Jason, can we get rid of these guys now?
This is the schedule for the month.
Let's look them over for assignments.
- Right.
- What?
LINGA:
Hey, Jason. I need to talk to you.
How can we trust them?
We can't. That's what Madiba wants, okay?
Let's go.
Are there any special orders
or conditions?
No. Oh, yes.
Madiba doesn't like it if you don't
smile when you push people away.
Seriously?
Yes, seriously. It's the new South Africa.
Madiba?
That's the president's clan name.
That's what we call him.
We'll call him Mr. President.
Can we go through the schedule now?
Can you gentlemen come closer?
[CHATTERING]
How's he going to do all this?
When does he take a break?
He says he rested enough in prison.
- Here's a headache.
- What?
The rugby match.
England against Springboks,
Loftus Stadium.
Gonna be a headache for England,
that's for sure. We're gonna donnerthem.
I don't care about the game.
All I care about...
...is that the president will be exposed.
- To a thousand drunken boys.
Sports fans?
Yes. Sports fans.
Who didn't vote for him.
Who probably hate him.
Who came out of the womb with guns
in their hands.
What?
ANNOUNCER:
Let's welcome captain François Pienaar...
...and the South African Springboks
here in Pretoria.
Today's referee is Colin Hawke
from New Zealand.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
Okay, guys.
I want your eyes on the crowd at all times.
You're staying in the middle of the field.
You're gonna walk in, shake hands,
and walk back and that's it.
- You got it?
- Yup.
Okay, let's go.
ANNOUNCER: Ladies and gentlemen,
it is our pleasure to have with us today...
...at Loftus Versfeld,
our newly elected president...
...Mr. Nelson Mandela.
[CROWD CHEERING AND BOOING]
MAN:
Mandela!
Well, good luck, captain.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you.
- Good luck, son.
- Thank you very much.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- Good luck, Chester.
- Yes, sir.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
Sir.
- Stop him.
JASON: No, stay with him.
- Thank you for honoring our new flag.
- It's a pleasure, sir.
Thank you.
How are you? How are you?
- Good to see you. Good to see you.
- Thank you. Thank you.
- Madiba.
- Hi.
Madiba? Madiba?
We're delaying the rugby, sir.
Oh, yes. Oh, yes, of course.
- Why didn't you stop him?
- Well, you try next time.
- Does he do that sort of thing all the time?
- Ask my ulcers.
- Good thing it was just a cup.
ETIENNE: And good thing he never saw it.
JASON:
Oh, he saw it. He sees everything.
I hate rugby.
Engage!
[GRUNTING]
MAN 1: With you, with you!
MAN 2: Here, onside, onside!
Come on! Now, now, now!
ANNOUNCER:
Try, England.
For England, scored by Ben Clarke,
Number 13.
England, 11, South Africa, 0.
Fuck, man.
[SPEAKS IN AFRIKAANS]
These okes mean business.
We need to focus.
Come, okes, we need to focus, focus!
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
MAN: Let's go, boys.
- Right, come on.
ANNOUNCER:
Conversion is good.
Why don't we do a little work
while we watch?
- We have a lot of promises to keep.
- Yes, we do.
Well, it's not too late,
if the boys can just pick up their game.
If they don't, heads will roll.
Come on, you bloody bastards.
Where do you want to go first
for foreign investment?
Where the money is.
America, England, Saudi Arabia.
How long before the World Cup?
About a year.
Well, it's time enough for improvement.
Mr. President.
Don't get your hopes up.
We're a damn disgrace.
ANNOUNCER:
England, 24, South Africa, 9.
Do you see all those old apartheid flags?
- Hm.
- They're a disgrace.
It is also a constitutional right.
Along with the apartheid anthem, I know.
But it's time people moved on.
Look at this.
All of the whites are cheering
for the Springboks.
All of the blacks are cheering
for England.
We used to do that on the island,
you know.
We would cheer for anyone but the Boks.
It made the warders very angry.
Of course it did.
- Sorry I'm late. How is it going?
ANNOUNCER: Number 10.
Very badly.
Maybe it's just as well.
Why?
I've just been at a meeting
of the National Sports executive.
There's a strong support to drop the
Springbok emblem and colors altogether.
If they play badly,
maybe it's a good time to make a change.
This could be the last time
we have to look at the green and gold.
Fuck, man. This is bullshit.
MAN: François Pienaar's team came
to Loftus Versfeld Stadium this afternoon...
...unprepared and arrogant.
They left 80 minutes later...
...with their tails between their legs
like whipped mongrels.
And I, for one, am glad.
Not because they lost,
but because there is now no way...
...to ignore the fact that we are
completely and utterly unprepared...
...to reenter the world
of topnotch international rugby.
The Rugby World Cup
is now less than a year away.
And I, for one, am relieved
that we are the host nation...
...and therefore qualify automatically
for the tournament.
- Somebody gets the ax.
- Because I am not sure...
...that we would get in on merit alone.
- Who's it gonna be?
Pienaar's team played
without discipline...
...without strategy and without courage.
- And therefore...
- He's trying to get them to drop me.
He's just bitter because the Springboks
were boycotted when he played.
Maybe. But people listen
to what he says.
They brought shame upon our nation.
And I, for one, can say
without fear of contradiction...
...that today, these 15...
...so-called men did not deserve
to wear the hallowed green and gold.
Here's your muti, Madiba.
I warmed the milk tonight.
Ah. You are too good to me, Mary.
Your daughter called
to cancel her visit this weekend.
Did she say why?
No, she didn't.
She said to tell you she was sorry.
I see.
Do you need anything else tonight?
No, Mary, thank you. I will go to bed.
Good evening, Dada.
Good evening, Mary.
- Hello. There you go.
DLAMINl: God bless you.
Thank you.
COLE: Some nice pants for you.
DLAMINl: God bless you.
COLE:
There you go.
There you go.
DLAMINl:
God bless you.
You're a very lucky boy.
It's a real Springbok practice jersey.
I mean, I know it's a bit big,
but it's warm and it'll last forever.
Huh? Come.
Go on, take it, it's yours.
- Why won't he take it?
- Lf he wears it, the others will beat him up.
Because the Springboks
are playing so badly?
No, because for them
Springbok still represents apartheid.
And now for the next item on our agenda.
The NSC executive proposes a vote
on the following motion:
That, as a permanent symbol
of the apartheid era...
...the colors, emblem...
...and the name of the Springboks,
be eliminated immediately.
And that all sports teams
representing South Africa...
...shall be known forthwith...
...as the Proteas.
Now, comrades,
we will submit this motion to a hand vote.
And in the event of a close count,
we'll go to a written ballot.
All of those in favor of eliminating
the Springboks, raise your hands.
- Viva, Proteas, viva!
- Viva!
Both units to their cars right now.
All right, let's go. Let's do it.
BRENDA: What do I tell
the Japanese trade delegation?
MANDELA:
I delegate that decision to you.
- Do you want me to inform the VP?
- No.
We should at least include
the minister of sport.
No.
I strongly advise against doing this,
especially on your own.
It gives the impression
of autocratic leadership.
You risk alienating your cabinet
and your party.
Your advice is duly noted.
Madiba. The people want this.
They hate the Springboks.
They don't want to be represented
by a team they cheered against.
Yes, I know. But in this instance,
the people are wrong.
And as their elected leader,
it is my job to show them that.
You're risking your political capital.
You're risking your future as our leader.
The day I am afraid to do that
is the day I am no longer fit to lead.
At least risk it for something
more important than rugby.
Tell the boys I want to go
to Eersterust, very fast.
[SIREN WAILING]
We, the executive, would like
to applaud you for your diligence...
...and your courage.
Please join us in our anthem.
[SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Comrades, comrades,
members of the choir.
We would only interrupt such beautiful
music for something truly important.
Please, welcome President Mandela.
Thank you.
WOMAN: Madiba.
MAN 1: Welcome, Madiba.
- Thank you.
MAN 2: Mandela.
- Mandela.
- Thank you.
I thank you. Please.
Smile.
Brothers...
...sisters...
...comrades.
I am here because
I believe you have made a decision...
...with insufficient information
and foresight.
I am aware of your earlier vote.
I am aware that it was unanimous.
Nonetheless, I believe
we should restore the Springboks.
[MURMURING]
Restore their name, their emblem...
...and their colors immediately.
Let me tell you why.
On Robben Island...
...in Pollsmoor Prison,
all of my jailers were Afrikaners.
For 27 years...
...I studied them.
I learned their language.
Read their books...
...their poetry.
I had to know my enemy...
...before I could prevail against him.
And we did prevail, did we not?
All of us here, we prevailed.
Our enemy is no longer the Afrikaner.
They are our fellow South Africans...
...our partners in democracy.
And they treasure Springbok rugby.
If we take that away, we lose them.
We prove that we are
what they feared we would be.
We have to be better than that.
We have to surprise them...
...with the compassion...
...with restraint and generosity.
I know all of the things they denied us.
But this is no time
to celebrate petty revenge.
This is the time to build our nation...
...using every single brick
available to us.
Even if that brick comes wrapped
in green and gold.
You elected me your leader.
Let me lead you now.
Who is with me on this?
Who is with me?
Twelve votes. Twelve.
A luxury.
We only needed one more yes than no.
What if you hadn't got it?
Well, you know,
that is the party's decision.
I'm sorry, Madiba, but we've got
problems everywhere we look.
Housing, food, jobs, crime. Our currency.
You can't keep interrupting
affairs of state to placate a minority.
But I must.
That minority still controls the police,
the army and the economy.
If we lose them,
we cannot address the other issues.
So this rugby
is just a political calculation?
It is a human calculation.
If we take away what they cherish...
...the Springboks,
their national anthem...
...we just reinforce
the cycle of fear between us.
I will do what I must to stop that cycle.
Or it will destroy us.
ANNOUNCER:
- 42, South Africa, 20.
Beer tastes like shit, man.
It's not the beer.
Take another.
Everybody, take one.
Pass them around.
Right. I'd like to propose a toast.
To the taste of defeat.
Drink it.
Remember this, and promise yourself
never to taste it again.
You're right, it tastes like shit.
Okay. Here's the schedule
for the overseas trip.
Let me see.
[SPEAKING IN AFRIKAANS]
What did he just say?
He asked when we were supposed
to sleep.
- As well as other basic human functions.
JASON: Hey.
If Madiba can do it, we can do it.
In a common struggle...
...that has brought
about our emancipation...
...and pushed back
the frontier of racism...
...the millions of our people
say thank you...
...and thank you again.
I come here with a message.
People of the United States of America...
...open your markets to us
and come invest in our country.
MAN: And in Japan, President Mandela
met with Japanese officials...
...as he concluded a grueling trip
to the Far East.
And in related news, it was announced
that President Mandela...
...will visit South Africa this week.
[LAUGHING]
Stop it, old man.
Gee, it's cold, man.
LINGA: Morning, Madiba.
- How are you?
LINGA: Fine, thanks.
HENDRICK: Morning, sir.
How is your family, Hendrick?
Top shape, sir. How about yours?
I have a very large family.
Forty-two million.
I don't think I'll walk today.
- We never, never ask him about his family.
- But he asks about ours.
Hey, think about it, man.
He's separated from his wife, his children.
How often do you see them here, huh?
He's not a saint, okay?
He's a man with a man's problems.
He doesn't need us reminding him
about them.
- Good morning, Madiba.
- Good morning.
- Thank you very much.
- Enjoy it.
Yes.
Very good.
- Ah, Brenda, good morning.
- Good morning, Madiba.
- I like that dress.
- Thank you.
- This is for you.
- What is it?
Your paychecks.
You haven't been collecting them.
- What's wrong?
- This is terrible.
It's what de Klerk got,
plus an increase for inflation.
Today President Mandela
announced that, in his opinion...
- Thanks.
...his salary is too high.
Dead right. They're all overpaid.
He has, therefore, decided to donate
a third of his monthly income to charity.
Give me the houses and cars they give him,
I'll donate a third of my salary too.
- You would not, not in a million years.
- Pienaar. Hello.
Hang on a moment, please.
Mandela says that he wishes
to set an example...
FRANÇOIS: Yes. Of course.
...to other leaders and cabinet ministers.
MANDELA: I thank you. Thank you.
- Fat chance.
[MUTES TV]
They're lining their pockets
as fast as they can.
Must be his girlfriend, eh, Nerine?
Oh, he knows I'll bloody well kill him.
[MR. PIENAAR LAUGHS]
NERINE:
What?
Who was that?
FRANÇOIS: Well...
- I told you it was his girlfriend.
Shh!
I've been invited to tea.
- With who?
- The president.
President of SA Rugby?
Count your fingers
after he shakes your hand, boy.
The president.
He wants me over for tea,
week after next.
Mr. François. You must tell Madiba
that the bus service is very bad...
...and too expensive.
He must do something about it.
- Good night, everybody.
MRS. PIENAAR: Good night, Eunice.
Thank you.
What the hell does he want with you?
I don't know.
François, relax, you've met him before.
- I shook his hand on the rugby field.
- And you didn't even vote.
Come on, Nooks, he's still the president.
I play rugby.
What am I gonna say to the guy?
Say to him, "Thank you for inviting me."
What if I pull something stupid
in front of him?
You won't.
Okay, I'll pick you up right here.
- Bye.
MAN 1: There's François.
- François, picture, please.
MAN 2: François, can we get picture?
Yeah, okay. Over here, okay?
FRANÇOIS: How's it?
MAN 3: Can we have a comment?
See who's coming for tea?
Yeah, my nephew wanted me
to get his autograph.
- Who?
- François Pienaar.
- Who wants to escort him in?
- I will.
- Hey, no autographs, okay?
- I know how to do my job, okay?
Who's this François Pienaar?
You can't be serious.
He's the captain of the Springboks.
I like soccer, myself.
Well, you know
what they say about soccer.
It's a gentlemen's game
played by hooligans.
On the other hand, rugby is
a hooligan's game played by gentlemen.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I've heard that one
before. It wasn't funny the first time.
- Can I ask you a question, lieutenant?
- Yeah, of course.
What's he like?
When I worked for the previous president,
it was my job to be invisible.
This president, well,
he found out I liked English toffee...
...and he brought me some back
from his visit in England.
To him, no one's invisible.
That's where you wait.
One of his assistants will come for you.
And the bathroom's over there
if you need it.
Okay. Thanks.
What are our chances in the World Cup?
I mean, for real.
We'll do our best. That, I can guarantee.
[PHONE RINGING]
WOMAN:
Office of the president.
So, what is he like?
Well, he's not as big as he looks on TV.
And we don't stand a bloody chance
in the World Cup.
WOMAN:
Office of the president.
Mr. Pienaar. Right this way, please.
WOMAN:
Yeah. Thank you.
Go on in.
François.
What an honor.
I am so excited. Thank you
for coming all this way to see me.
Yes, sir. Thank you for inviting me,
Mr. President.
So, tell me, François, how is your ankle?
- My ankle?
- I was told it was hurt. Has it healed?
The truth is, sir, you never really play
at 100 percent, no matter what.
Yes. In sports as in life, eh?
- Yes, sir.
- Please, sit.
Take this one.
Looking into the light hurts my eyes.
Mrs. Brits.
You are a shining light in my day.
Yes, sir.
Mrs. Brits, this is François Pienaar,
captain of the Springboks.
[BOTH SPEAK IN AFRIKAANS]
Shall I pour, sir?
No, no. I would prefer to do it myself.
Thank you very much, Mrs. Brits.
How do you like your tea, François?
Just milk, please.
MANDELA:
The English have given us many things...
...including rugby.
But afternoon tea, that is the greatest.
There we are.
Thank you, sir.
You have a very difficult job.
I do?
I have a trading business.
Captain of the Springboks.
A very difficult job.
Well, not compared to yours,
Mr. President.
[MANDELA CHUCKLES]
Well, no one is trying to tear my head off
while I'm doing mine.
Yes, sir.
Tell me, François...
...what is your philosophy on leadership?
How do you inspire your team
to do their best?
By example. I've always thought
to lead by example, sir.
Well, that is right. That is exactly right.
But how to get them to be better
than they think they can be?
That is very difficult, I find.
Inspiration, perhaps.
How do we inspire ourselves to greatness,
when nothing less will do?
How do we inspire everyone around us?
I sometimes think it is
by using the work of others.
On Robben Island...
...when things got very bad...
...I found inspiration in a poem.
- A poem?
- A Victorian poem.
Just words.
But they helped me to stand
when all I wanted to do was to lie down.
But you didn't come all this way
to hear an old man talk...
...about things that make no sense.
No, no, please, Mr. President.
It makes complete sense to me.
On the day of a big match, say, a test...
...in the bus on the way to the stadium,
nobody talks.
- Yes. They're all preparing.
- Right.
But when I think we're ready,
I have the bus driver put on a song.
Something I've chosen, one we all know.
And we listen to the words together.
And it helps.
I remember when I was invited to
the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
Everybody in the stadium
greeted me with a song.
At the time, the future...
...our future, seemed very bleak.
But to hear that song in the voices
of people from all over our planet...
...made me proud to be South African.
It inspired me to come home
and do better.
It allowed me to expect more of myself.
May I ask, what was the song, sir?
Well, it was "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika."
A very inspiring song.
We need inspiration, François.
Because in order to build our nation...
...we must all exceed
our own expectations.
So, what's he like?
He's not like anyone I've ever met before.
Yeah, I hope. What did he want?
What did he talk about? Did he talk
about rugby? What did he talk about?
François. It's like talking to a brick wall.
What did he say?
I think he wants us to win the World Cup.
[CAMERA SHUTTERS CLICKING]
Excuse me.
What do you think?
- It doesn't matter what I think.
- Yes, it does.
Okay.
He looks like one of the policemen...
...who forced us out of our house
when you were in jail.
I don't like seeing you shake his hand...
...and I'm not the only one.
You criticize without understanding.
You seek only to address
your own personal feelings.
That is selfish thinking, Zindzi.
It does not serve the nation.
Zindzi, wait, please.
Zindzi, l...
Here.
- Give this to your mother for me, please.
- What is it?
It's a bracelet I found unpacking.
Why don't you just throw it away?
I don't have the right,
doesn't belong to me.
If she left it, she meant to throw it away.
Mrs. Pienaar said you were
finished with the paper.
Yeah, yeah, of course.
MAN 1: Let's go.
MAN 2: Go low. Yeah, that's it. Good boy.
- There we go.
MAN 3: Hit.
MINISTER: The World Cup is played
every four years.
Sixteen teams qualify
from around the world.
Four pools of four teams...
...each playing in nine different venues
around the country.
Two teams will advance from each pool
to the quarterfinals.
Ivory Coast qualifies. That's wonderful.
According to the experts,
we'll reach the quarterfinals and no further.
According to the experts,
you and I should still be in jail.
MINISTER: You make a personal appearance
at the finals...
...and at the opening match
between Australia and the Springboks.
The finals will be broadcast to over
a billion people around the world, live.
A billion people watching us?
This is a great opportunity.
I reckon you've knocked
the stuffing out of them today.
MAN 1: And now.
MAN 2: Come on, boys.
I haven't even begun.
We may not be the most talented team
in the world...
...but we're sure as hell
going to be the fittest.
Let's go again, guys.
MAN 3: Come on, boys, nut up.
- Shit.
- Brenda.
BRENDA: Yes, sir?
Please get the head
of South African Rugby for me.
- Right away.
- Thank you.
Yep. One more.
Guys, listen up.
Dr. Luyt just wants a few words, please.
Afternoon, men.
Good to see you all working so hard.
I have a short announcement.
As part of the PR buildup
to the World Cup...
...you will be conducting coaching clinics
in townships all over the country.
I know, I know.
You have plenty on your plates already.
But this is a request from the top.
The very top.
Thank you.
This is complete crap, man.
What is this?
What are we, some sort of circus act now?
We don't have time for shit like this.
They expect us to play our best...
...to give our bloody all,
then they add to our bloody workload.
What do you think about this, Chester?
Well, I try not to think
because it interferes with my rugby.
You see? Now, there's a rugby player.
Talk to them, cappie.
Make them understand.
We don't have time for this.
Yeah.
- Yeah.
- I'm not going to talk to them.
Why not?
Okes...
...we've become more
than just a rugby team...
...and we might as well get used to it.
- Is this you speaking or Mandela?
MAN: Yeah, exactly.
You know me better than that.
You know, times change.
And we need to change as well.
Shit.
Yeah. Glad I don't live here, eh?
Around there.
Don't forget,
we've got cameras on us at all times.
What a bloody joke.
[CHILDREN CHEERING]
CHILDREN [CHANTING]:
Chester! Chester! Chester!
Chester, I reckon you're up.
- What am I supposed to do?
- What you do best.
Let rip.
Who wants to play rugby?
Who here knows the rules of rugby?
- Me.
- What is it?
You hit another player
when the ref is not looking.
[MEN LAUGHING]
No, no, no, the first rule of rugby...
...is you can only pass the ball backwards
or sideways, all right? Shall we practice?
BOY: Yes.
- All right. Form a line.
Let's go, boys.
Ready? Okay, pass.
Keep your hands up.
Yeah!
Like this, like this. Pass it here.
I'm here and I'm running like this:
I'm there.
Now... Now... Now you run.
There you go.
And then catch it like that.
So I want you in groups of three, okay?
All right, one, two, three.
[YELLS]
[LAUGHING]
- Bokke!
- Yes!
- Bokke!
- Yes, yes, yes!
[HORN BEEPS]
[CHILDREN CHEERING]
And in addition
to the nationwide PR campaign...
...we propose that all retail outlets
charge a nominal fee for plastic bags.
- We believe that this will generate...
- Uh, excuse me.
Mr. Minister, if you will forgive me,
this all sounds excellent...
...and we will return to it, but if you
will indulge me for just one moment.
MAN [ON TV]: Well, soccer is usually
their favorite sport here...
...but things changed today when a group
of local kids really took to the Springboks...
...in a surprise visit
where François Pienaar...
[CHUCKLES]
You see that? That picture
is worth any number of speeches.
This is part of President Mandela's
"one team, one country" campaign.
This is Johan de Villiers
reporting live from Cape Town Airport...
...where the Springbok flight
has just landed.
- Thank you.
DE VILLIERS: The green and gold...
...have just one week...
...to put the finishing touches
to their grueling training program.
And I, for one, must admit
to being cautiously optimistic.
I say "cautiously"
because in my humble opinion...
...this Springbok team
has been over-practiced on the field...
...and overcommitted off it...
...which makes beating a powerhouse
Australian side in next week's Cup opener...
...a tall order, especially as this is
an inexperienced team...
...with a history of coming up short
in big matches.
This is Johan de Villiers,
live in Cape Town...
...returning you to the studio
in Johannesburg.
MAN: Thanks, Johan, for the update...
- Around the world, objectively...
...what are they saying
about our chances to beat Australia?
Everyone thinks they'll beat us,
and if they do...
...we'll have to go through England
and the All Blacks just to get to the final.
So it is very important
that we beat Australia?
Thank you.
Madiba? The cabinet ministers are here
to brief you on the trip to Taiwan.
Oh, yes. I'll be right out.
Thank you, sir.
One week, boys.
We want snipers on top of the stadium
and the surrounding buildings here.
No problem.
We want those two approaches
completely sanitized.
Two approaches?
We're not gonna decide which way
he comes in until the very last moment.
We want uniforms, plain-clothes,
sharpshooters.
And sniffer dogs.
If you need more men, we have an
army unit for you on standby at Silvermine.
We're not going to
take chances, gentlemen.
The president is going to be exposed.
Much too exposed.
Brenda...
...I have been studying.
For the summit in Taiwan? Good.
No. Not exactly.
Test me.
They look like thugs.
Block out their names.
See if I can recognize them.
André Joubert. Gavin Johnson.
Did I get them right?
Yes, Madiba.
That's the way I used to study
in law school.
Unfortunately, Chester is far too easy
to identify.
But that will change. It must.
FRANÇOIS:
Team meeting after dinner.
WOMAN:
François!
MAN:
Good luck, Springboks!
All right, gather around.
- Pass them around.
- What's this, homework?
FRANÇOIS:
Yeah, yeah. A little.
Make sure everyone's got one.
What is this?
Right. We need to learn this song.
We can't just mouth the words anymore.
Nobody cares as long as
we're winning the matches.
You're wrong, they do care.
It's their bloody song, not ours.
- Flipping terrorist song, man.
- They used to arrest you for singing it.
Right, and now it's one of our anthems.
I can't even read it
or pronounce the words.
All right, okes, it's optional.
Take it if you want to.
It means "God Bless Africa."
Which, you have to admit, we could use.
Tell us, Mr. President,
have you always been a rugby fan?
People don't realize
that I played rugby myself...
...when I was a student at Fort Hare.
It is a very rough game,
almost as rough as politics.
How do you think the Springboks
will do?
Oh, I think they will do very well.
Their level of commitment is tremendous.
Now, it's been said
that you used to support any team...
...that played against the Springboks.
Yes, well,
obviously that is no longer true.
I am 100 percent behind our boys.
After all, if I cannot change
when circumstances demand it...
...how can I expect others to?
- François.
- Welcome, Mr. President.
Gentlemen.
Forgive me for interrupting your work
the day before such an important match.
But I just wanted to come
and wish you good luck in person.
Sometimes, very seldom, as president,
I am allowed to do what I want.
- Mr. President. This is...
- Oh, I know who this is.
- André. Good luck.
- Pleased to meet you. Thank you, sir.
- Brendan. Good luck to you.
- Mr. President.
- Gavin.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck. James.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- Japie.
- Thanks, sir.
Good luck.
- Did you ever imagine this?
MANDELA: Good luck.
How could I?
- It's an honor, sir.
- Thank you. Good luck.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
Thank you.
- Good luck to you.
- Thank you, sir.
- Sir.
- Good luck.
- Sir.
- Good luck, son.
Good luck.
- Hennie, good luck.
- Sir.
But...
...where is Chester?
- He's injured, sir.
- Hm?
His hamstring.
We're trying to keep it quiet.
Well, will he be out
for the entire tournament?
With hamstrings, who knows?
We'll miss him.
The whole country will miss him.
- Well, gentlemen...
- Mr. President, sir.
- Yes, Hennie?
- This is for you from us.
I am honored, gentlemen.
Truly honored.
And you must know that...
...your country supports you completely.
Good luck to you all.
- Thank you, sir.
- François, walk with me.
I have something for you.
It has helped me through the years.
I hope it helps you.
Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you.
MARY:
It's time for bed, Dada.
I'm going to stay up a while.
The country is excited tonight.
You need to sleep, the doctor said.
The doctor has no sense of occasion.
MAN: A good clearance
from the base of the scrum.
A good result here today.
It's perfect conditions
in front of a full house.
Strong tackle. Nice offload.
[KNOCKING]
Hello.
- Thank you.
- Thank you, sir.
You know what's the best thing
about you being the captain?
- The honor?
- No.
You don't have to share a room.
- No, no, no. I can't, I can't.
- Come on, François, it's been weeks.
I need to be angry. I know, it's working.
I need to be angry tomorrow.
What's this?
A poem from the president.
How does a poem help you play rugby?
The same way your visit does.
Inspiration.
[GRUNTING]
MAN:
Here we go!
Heads up! Heads up!
- What happened?
- We scored.
MAN:
Come on!
ANNOUNCER:
Try, Australia.
[GRUNTING]
Yes.
Number 10, Stransky.
Yes! Yes!
- We won.
- We did?
Good, Dada.
- Very good.
- It's beautiful, Dada.
- Well, then, what do you say now?
- Well, that was fantastic.
[VIOLINS PLAYING]
You must be very happy.
Any man would be happy dancing
with a beautiful lady like you.
- Mr. President, you're exaggerating.
- Not at all.
My father was Xhosa,
so he was a polygamist.
As you know, I am not.
But when I look at you, I envy my father.
[LAUGHING]
MEN [SINGING]:
Here's to Joel, he's so blue
He's a drunkard through and through
He's a bastard, so they say
He tried to go to heaven
But he went the other way
Say one, two, three, four, hey!
Coach's run, 6 a.m.
- What?
- Pass it on.
- Coach's run, 6 a.m.
MAN: You gotta be kidding me.
- Six. Drink up.
- Nothing more for you then.
Joel, coach's run, 6. Six a.m.
Hey, guys. I hope you're
not going to be this slow next week.
- Hi, Nooks.
- Cappie, what's going on?
- A change of pace. Come.
- You sneaky bugger.
FRANÇOIS:
Here you go. Come on, guys. Come.
[HORN BLOWS]
They used to smuggle gravel
in from the yard...
...throw it across the floor.
They could hear the wardens coming.
Oh, wow.
- Can we see the president's cell?
- Yes. Yes, of course.
Lord, can you believe this?
Now, the number on the door, 46664...
...means he was the 466th prisoner
to be interned here in 1964.
We've done it up just the way it was.
Come with me.
MANDELA [IN VOICE-OVER]:
Out of the night that covers me
Black as the Pit from pole to pole
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of fate
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate
How charged with punishment the scroll
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
Over there.
[GROANS]
Dada? Madiba?
Sir?
What happened?
It's simple exhaustion, but it will lead
to worse if it's not treated.
He needs a complete rest.
And I don't mean just simply shifting
the affairs of the state to his bedroom.
No phone calls, no visitors,
no meetings, no politics.
You know him, he won't do that.
- Then I'm going to put him in isolation.
- Not yet. I'll threaten him with hospital...
...if he doesn't behave.
- I'll cancel everything.
And I'll come back tonight
to make sure he's not working.
Don't cancel the trip to Taiwan, not yet.
[SPEAKS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Chester's back.
MAN:
Okay, back to the line.
[GRUNTING]
ANNOUNCER: Try to South Africa
scored by Chester Williams.
[CROWD CHEERING]
All right.
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Fuck you, pussy.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Ball's trapped, green put-in.
ANNOUNCER: Game over. Final score:
South Africa, 42, Samoa, 14.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
- Madiba?
- Hm?
- This is the delegation that you have been...
- Oh, I know who this is.
Welcome. Thank you for coming
so far to see me.
Thank you. How do you do?
- I'm fine. Welcome.
- Thank you very much.
ANNOUNCER: Ladies and gentlemen,
we apologize for the rain delay.
The semifinal match between South Africa
and France will begin as soon as possible.
- This is it, let's go.
MAN: Let's go!
MAN: Expect it to grow faster
than other sectors in the next few years.
Manufacturing accounts for 40...
[GRUNTING]
MAN: To promote
our international business alliances.
Strong industries have developed
in shipping and computers.
- Our information...
- Please, excuse me.
MAN:
Yes, Mr. President, of course.
Gentlemen, let us continue
in 10 minutes.
[CHUCKLING]
This is good, very good.
So who is our next opponent?
The All Blacks play England tomorrow.
Then we'll know.
I see.
Well, you will make sure that
my schedule is free for the entire match.
Oh, yes, Dada.
This is good. This is very good.
Brilliant.
MAN 1: Look at the power of that man.
MAN 2: There he goes. Two.
MAN 3: Cheers, mate.
- Beautiful try.
His All Black teammates come
to congratulate the big fella yet again.
Lomu is becoming
one of the most intimidating...
Why don't we do a little work
while we're here?
Just enjoy the rugby.
- World Cup semifinal against England.
Good clearance from the base
of the scrum.
So let me understand this.
The All Blacks are killing a team
that trashed us last year.
- Thanks for reminding me.
- Yes.
- And he is...
- We're gonna really have to tackle...
...a lot better than the English.
- Yeah. For sure.
- We do.
- For sure, yeah.
That is Lomu's second try this afternoon.
This guy really likes scoring tries
against the English...
Are those the judicial appointments
for the Free States?
They'll keep until after the match.
There's the kick.
I am the president, you know.
And the conversion is good.
Are you watching this guy?
He's about your size, but...
- How much does this Lomu guy weigh?
MAN: About 120 kilos.
Shit. It's the same as me.
Yeah, but you're slow.
Lomu looks for contact
every time he gets the ball.
- Yep.
- That's good for us.
Yep.
I will break my arm, my leg, my neck,
but I will not let that freaking guy go.
Me too, cappie. Me too.
- With you, cappie. With you.
- All the way.
A lot of pushing in the lineup over there.
Players jostling for position.
Try to spin it when you pass it, yeah?
Like this:
[MEN LAUGHING]
MAN 1: Yes.
MAN 2: No.
Touch.
ETIENNE:
You must fly in there.
Still think I'm wasting my time
with the rugby?
- He's in the clear and he will go...
MANDELA: Brenda.
Please tell the minister of sport...
...I would like a full report
on the All Blacks.
- This rugby.
- Hm?
It's still strictly political?
Oh, yes. Oh, yes. Of course.
- And over the try line as well.
MRS. PIENAAR: Sweetheart.
- Hello.
- Hello, Nerine.
- François.
- Don't lose them, won't be able to get more.
- Thanks, François.
Me, Mum, Nerine.
Wait, there's a fourth.
Who's that for?
The All Blacks beat Ireland 43 to 19.
- I see.
- They beat Wales 34 to 9.
- I see.
- They beat Japan 145 to 17.
A hundred and forty-five points?
In one match?
It's a new international record.
They beat Scotland 48 to 30
in the quarterfinals.
- You saw the match with England.
- Yes.
Forty-five to 29,
and it was not that close.
They seem unstoppable.
If the opposing team played them
straight up, Jonah Lomu runs wild.
If they focus on Lomu,
that leaves others free.
And also,
there's the business of the haka.
A Maori war dance.
Yes. It is very powerful.
My sources tell me that
half of the All Black matches...
...are won before the first whistle
because of it.
How can we beat them?
I have the coach's number.
Maybe you could call him and ask.
No, no, I don't want to distract their focus,
even for one minute.
But how can we win?
Maybe we won't. They're favored 2-to-1.
Madiba, we have already exceeded
all expectations, on and off the field.
It's not enough. Not now. Not so close.
This country is hungry for greatness.
Brought one of your mum's
protein shakes.
Thinking about tomorrow?
No.
Tomorrow's taken care of,
one way or another.
I was thinking about how you
spend 30 years in a tiny cell...
...and come out ready to forgive
the people who put you there.
Come on, man.
There's nothing more you can do today.
Have I ever mentioned to you
that I hate rugby?
Once or twice. Yes.
I just wanna get him through
tomorrow safely, that's all.
We all do.
[PEOPLE CHEERING]
The tickets sold out long before
the team became popular.
There's not exactly going to be
the rainbow nation out there.
And that's the reality.
Now, all it takes is one idiot
trying to make a statement...
...or one fool who thinks that he hears God
speaking to him through the radio.
It has happened before, but not today.
Not on our watch and not today.
- Flag face, 5 rand. Flag face.
- Oh, bugger off.
It's all right.
We are at Ellis Park on this historic day...
...where even this early,
crowd expectation is at fever pitch...
...because their beloved
green and gold...
...has somehow managed
to defy all expectations.
But now, they come up against a team
unlike any they have placed before.
These All Blacks are possibly one
of the greatest international sides ever...
...with a player in Jonah Lomu...
...who is as dominant as any
this correspondent has ever seen.
MAN 1:
Madiba!
WOMAN: Madiba!
MAN 2: Madiba!
MAN 3:
Madiba!
CROWD [CHEERING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
Final approach, captain.
Let it be noted that
I'm taking control of the aircraft.
Duly noted.
I take full responsibility
for what happens from now on.
Do you see that jet to the east?
ETIENNE: They get clearance for this?
- Not from us.
Where is he?
VIP box.
Let's get him out of there now.
No time.
What the hell was that?
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
- Bokke!
- Yes!
Come on.
ANNOUNCER:
Welcome to Ellis Park, Johannesburg...
...and the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Please welcome
the South African Springboks.
[CROWD CHEERING]
CROWD [CHANTING]:
Bokke! Bokke! Bokke!
ANNOUNCER:
And the New Zealand All Blacks.
CROWD [CHANTING]:
All Blacks! All Blacks! All Blacks!
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
ANNOUNCER:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome...
...the president of the Republic
of South Africa, Mr. Nelson Mandela.
[CROWD CHEERING]
MAN [ON TV]: Dr. Nelson Mandela,
the president of South Africa...
...in the rugby jersey
with a Number 6 on its back.
The All Blacks won't like that.
François, your country
is very proud of you.
Thank you, sir.
- Good luck.
- Thank you.
- This is Ruben Kruger.
- Mr. President.
- Hi. Good luck to you, son.
- Thank you.
Good luck to you, son.
The dignities out there
with Dr. Mandela...
Chester.
I want you to know that
your whole country is supporting you.
- Good luck.
- Thank you, sir.
Good luck, son.
What dramatic moments here
at Ellis Park.
I don't think I've ever seen
so many flags in one stadium.
- Hi.
- Our captain.
An honor, sir.
- Mr. President.
- Good luck.
- Jonah.
- Good afternoon, sir.
- Nice to see you.
- Thank you.
I'm a little afraid of you.
And that's big Jonah LomuV
a big day for him.
- You all be careful now.
- Yeah.
Good luck.
CROWD [CHEERING]:
Nelson! Nelson! Nelson!
Dr. Mandela just lifting his cap
to the 62,000 people...
Eunice!
Wonderful aerial shot
of Ellis Park Stadium.
[CHOIR SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE
ON TV]
A very emotional moment for both teams.
Ladies and gentlemen,
the national anthem of South Africa.
South African national anthems.
[SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
What an unbelievable spectacular here
in Johannesburg.
[CROWD CHEERING]
ANNOUNCER:
The match will now begin.
MAN:
All right.
Perhaps we should make a little wager.
All your gold for all our sheep.
Well, I was thinking
more along the lines of a case of wine.
ANNOUNCER 1:
The celebration's over.
We're now down to the big game
and we await the haka of New Zealand.
[YELLING IN MAORl]
Well, that's the challenge that's laid down
by the Maoris before going into battle.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
Outside, outside!
ANNOUNCER 2:New Zealand with the best
attacking side of the tournament.
ANNOUNCER 1: This first 20 minutes
will be absolutely critical.
South Africa has the weight advantage
in the scrums...
...but I don't think many people have
seen a weak New Zealand scrum.
[MEN SPEAKING
IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
Put it out!
South Africa had it in the maul
and they should've played it.
Good interplay by New Zealand.
Now, here's a chance for them.
Engage.
Break.
Come, boys.
What the heck are we doing?
Lomu is culling us.
Forwards, we must start scrumming.
We must disrupt him at the first phase.
Can't allow Lomu to get the ball in space.
He's freaking killing us.
But listen, if Lomu gets the ball,
whoever's there...
...James, Joost...
...hit the fucking guy,
hold onto him, hold him.
Help will come, help will be there.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
We can see that New Zealand
were looking to try...
...and stretch the game to the left to Jonah
Lomu, and give him some time and space.
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Most of the opportunities
have gone New Zealand's way.
Now, now, now!
Penalty. Carrying the ball.
That's the mark.
Captain. Posts.
ANNOUNCER: Kick is good.
Number 10, Andrew Mehrtens.
First blood to New Zealand.
Great all-around fly half
is Andrew Mehrtens...
...born here in South Africa in Durban.
And now Stransky gets a kick that's every
bit as important as the one that Mehrtens...
The kick is good.
Number 10, Joel Stransky.
New Zealand to restart.
REFEREE:
Penalty. Carrying the ball.
Posts.
Such an important kick for New Zealand.
The penalty kick is converted.
Andrew Mehrtens for New Zealand.
The score now:
New Zealand, 6, South Africa, 3.
It's a great kick from Mehrtens.
Thirteen minutes gone.
They're at 6 points to 3,
New Zealand leads South Africa.
MAN 1: Release the ball.
MAN 2: Come on.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
About 21 minutes gone.
Both teams, up on it, 6 points each.
Boks kick a goal for the lead
for the first time in the match.
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
MAN:
Last feet.
Stay. Stay.
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
ANNOUNCER:
Successful attempt for New Zealand.
MAN:
Wide, wide!
ANNOUNCER:
Unsuccessful kick. The score remains 9-9.
That's the closing score, 9 points all.
And now there will be
a five-minute break.
This is the first final in the history of the
World Cup where we're having extra time.
Extra time.
So, what does this mean?
Extra time. Twenty minutes.
I don't think I can take it.
ANNOUNCER: It'll be a test of great character
in these last 20 minutes of this match.
Who's the fittest team on this field?
Outside, outside!
REFEREE:
Crouch. Engage!
Break.
Penalty.
ANNOUNCER:
New Zealand, 12, South Africa, 9.
A great kick from Andrew Mehrtens.
Well, he certainly had length in reserve...
...because it was high, high
above the crossbar...
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
REFEREE:
Penalty against green.
Time off.
- Five minutes, sir.
- François.
Too many guys off their feet at the rucks.
- Okay.
- Speak to your team.
- I'll talk to them. Speak to them.
- Yes.
[CROWD SINGING
IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE]
ANNOUNCER:
Switch to Jonah Lomu.
Big man's been quiet in this match
and that's credit to South Africa's...
Heads up.
Look in my eyes.
Do you hear?
Listen to your country.
Seven minutes.
Seven minutes.
Defense, defense, defense.
This is it.
This is our destiny.
- Come, Bokke! Come!
- Yeah!
Come on!
How long before the end?
- Seven minutes.
- Seven minutes.
New Zealand leads by 12 points to 9.
This will be the longest seven minutes
that those 15...
Spin, spin!
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
Yes! Yes, Bokke!
Stransky, this time, has got this kick
of immense importance for his country.
Yeah.
ANNOUNCER:
Five minutes in extra playing time.
MAN:
Now, now!
And that is the way
one can get a big man coming...
Joost!
MAN:
And squeeze.
Joost!
Has he got it?
[CROWD CHEERING]
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
ANNOUNCER: With minutes remaining,
South Africa takes the lead, 15 to 12.
Yes!
Fifteen points to 12.
South Africa!
[CHUCKLES]
[CROWD SINGING]
Ellis on the outside.
Great play here by Marc Ellis
in reading the game, but he can't take...
South Africa will have go into the scrum...
MAN:
Drive!
[WHISTLE BLOWS]
[WHISTLE BLOWING]
They've won!
- Yes!
- Yeah!
Yes!
Chester, will you lead us in a prayer?
Thanks, Lord,
for getting us into this final.
Thanks for no serious injuries.
And most of all,
thanks for the win. Amen.
Amen.
Good game.
Marvelous. Marvelous.
[CROWD SINGING "OLE OLE OLE"]
Good job.
[SINGING INDISTINCTLY]
François, a few words.
Great game.
But you couldn't have done it
without the amazing support...
...of 63,000 South Africans here today.
Yeah. We didn't have the support
of 60,000 South Africans.
We had the support
of 43 million South Africans.
[CHEERING]
I want to thank you
for what you have done for our country.
No, Mr. President, thank you
for what you have done for our country.
Yeah, it's beautiful, it's beautiful,
it's beautiful.
This route is crowded.
Let's change to route C.
Okay.
There's no hurry here. No hurry at all.
LINGA:
Madiba says there's no need to hurry.
Yeah.
It's good, it's good, it's good.
MANDELA:
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
[ENGLISH SDH]