The Englishman of the Bones (film)

The Englishman of the Bones is a 2022 South African historical drama film directed by Hanneke Schutte. The film is based on the true story of Reverend John Thomas, an English missionary sent to the Tswana people in South Africa during the early 19th century.

The plot revolves around Thomas's complex relationship with King Mothibi of the Tlhaping tribe, his struggles to convert the Tswana people to Christianity, and his involvement in the political tensions between the Tswana and the encroaching Griqua people who were armed with firearms and sought land. The film explores themes of colonialism, cultural clashes, faith, power, and the impact of Western influence on indigenous communities.

The film stars Robbie Wessels as Reverend John Thomas and also features notable South African actors. It was filmed on location in South Africa, aiming for historical accuracy in its depiction of the era and the lives of the Tswana people. The film has received attention for its portrayal of a relatively unknown chapter of South African history and for its examination of the complexities of missionary work during the colonial period.