Black Butterflies

In the gentle moonlight, sisters Ingrid and Anna Jonker wake up to an unthinkable reality: their grandmother has died. This loss creates a somber atmosphere as the family gathers to mourn, changing their lives forever.

The head of the family, Abraham Jonker, arrives to find the girls barefoot and grieving. His unexpected appearance introduces a complicated family dynamic, marking the start of ongoing tensions.

Years later, adult Ingrid faces the challenges of life in Clifton. The turmoil of her existence reflects her internal conflicts as she grapples with her identity and ambitions.

When Ingrid cries out for help, she is saved by Jack Cope, a distinguished author who heroically plunges into the ocean. This fateful encounter sets in motion a profound connection between them.

As they converse, Ingrid reveals her admiration for Jack's novel, serving as a beacon of hope for her. Their discussion marks a pivotal moment, as Jack realizes he is speaking with the renowned poet Ingrid Jonker.

Abraham Jonker visits Ingrid and conveys news about her estranged husband, Pieter Venter. This unexpected involvement complicates Ingrid's burgeoning relationship with Jack.

Ingrid finds solace in Jack's bohemian lifestyle, joining him for an exhilarating night filled with art and lively conversation. Their joy is interrupted by the troubling presence of a censored writer, reflecting the oppressive political climate.

As their bond deepens, Ingrid shares a heartfelt poem about Jack, drawing them closer together. The tension about marriage begins to surface as Jack's divorce looms, complicating their relationship.

Jack confides that Ingrid's artistic pursuits have drained him, prompting him to leave for a few months to visit his children. Ingrid feels abandoned as she desperately seeks to hold onto their connection at the train station.

Loneliness leads Ingrid to a relationship with Eugene Maritz, a rising literary figure. Their passionate affair begins to stir Ingrid's creative ambitions but also complicates her feelings for Jack.

A tragic police shooting of a young black child ignites deep emotions within Ingrid, motivating her to write her iconic poem, *Die Kind*. The event highlights the impact of the oppressive political landscape on her life and work.

Feeling rejected by her father Abraham, Ingrid seeks validation in her poetry. The harsh backlash from him leads to a downward spiral, ultimately resulting in her institutionalization.

During Jack's visits, Ingrid reveals her struggles, sparking a collaboration with Uys Krige. This partnership results in the acclaimed poetry collection *Rook an Ochre*, leading to her first international opportunity.

Ingrid's European trip offers her a chance at greater exposure, but her relationships are strained by lingering feelings for Jack. This tension culminates in Eugene’s departure as he anticipates her unresolved feelings.

In a heart-wrenching twist, Ingrid ends her life by walking into the ocean, leaving Jack devastated. This tragic act resonates throughout the film, emphasizing the profound feelings of loss and despair.

In a poignant closing scene, Nelson Mandela reads Ingrid's poem *Die Kind*, linking her work to the historical context of South Africa's fight against Apartheid. This moment symbolizes the enduring impact of Ingrid's words on a nation healing from its past.