Stayin’ Alive in Jo’Burg (2009)

Stayin’ Alive in Jo’Burg (2009)


Johannesburg is the largest economic metropolis in Africa. Downtown Johannesburg, however, is one of the world’s most violent places. Most office buildings have been vacated or squatted and are occupied by several groups of illegal Africans from neighbouring countries. Thousands of fortune seekers are trying to build a new life in this anarchist urban jungle.


Meanwhile, the city is preparing for the World Cup 2010, the opportunity for Johannesburg to present itself to the world from its best side. The city centre needs to be cleared, and everything is being done to make sure that this major event will run smoothly. But will it succeed? And what will the consequences be for all those thousands of immigrants?


Director Rob Schröder has visited Johannesburg several times since January 2008 to paint a picture of the changes. Is it possible to control this city full of hope and fear, and to make the city centre safe and livable? How can anyone survive in Johannesburg at all?