The Domestic (2022) Movie Script
1
[elevator whirring]
[]
[elevator dings]
[muscle car engine revving]
[thunder rumbling]
[]
[crow cawing]
[bones rattling]
KAT:
Our culture believes that life
does not end with death,
but continues in another realm,
inhabited by Amadlozi
our Ancestors.
It it said
the Amadlozi reach out
to a select group
of people, offering them
special abilities.
There are those that
hear Ubizo, and reject it.
Fearful of the sacrifice
it requires.
[]
[birds chirping]
[shoppers rustling]
[footsteps thumping]
[]
[furniture dragging]
-[rhythmic rattling]
-[Blessing chanting]
[]
[phone buzzing]
PRIVATE NUMBER
MAN OVER PHONE:
Blessing Nkanya?
[]
[door closes]
[birds chirping]
-We missed it.
-Shit!
At least we tried.
We are going to hit traffic
so hard.
It's not like we were given
a set time or anything
Argh, my shoes!
Um...
Um...
You know what? Here you go.
Sorry we missed it.
Thanks.
[indistinct chattering]
FOOD JOINBLESSING
Blessing?
Is that you?
Babe?
-It's Blessing.
-TUMI: Blessing!
[both chuckles]
-Do you remember us?
-She couldn't remember us.
Uh, I'm Katlego
and this is my husband, Tumi.
Your mother,
she used to work for us.
You used to live with us.
Yeah. You were like, yay high.
Chubby.
You couldn't have been
more than five or six
before Martha
sent you back home.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Martha was part of the family.
How did she die?
No one told you?
[scoffs] Typical.
It was a heart attack.
KAT:
We were out shopping,
came home
and found her
on the kitchen floor.
Um, it was sudden,
the doctor said
she didn't suffer.
Mm.
Martha spoke about you
all the time.
Hmm.
We left something
with the pastor.
Please make sure
you get it, okay?
-I'm so glad we met.
-Um...
Did she leave anything?
Anything I should have?
Of course!
All of your mother's things
are at the house.
You can come by anytime.
Here, take my number.
[sniffles]
[phone starts]
[]
[silence]
-Excuse me?
-Listen, we don't believe...
in all that traditional
ancestral stuff.
You can't ignore who you are.
It's nice meeting you, Blessing.
[sighs]
Martha's daughter...
Bit of a weirdo, hey.
How did she know about that?
Mothers and daughters talk.
Martha probably said something.
[engine starts]
It was quite an ordeal.
[indefinite muffled chanting]
[muffled chanting continues]
[]
[mysterious music, chanting]
THE DOMESTIC
[crows cawing]
[]
[phone rings]
-[toothbrush buzzing]
-[gargling]
[spits]
Hmm.
Hmm.
TUMI:
I never get coffee drinkers.
You might not like it,
but you know how to make it.
-You're not eating?
-It's my fast day, remember?
-Oh...
-It's fine, just leave it for...
Nice to see that Martha's death
left such an impression
on you, darling.
Don't start. I'm in a rush.
What am I supposed
to do with this?
Improvise.
See you tonight.
-Have a good one.
-You too.
[scrunches]
[plate clatters]
[]
[]
[sizzling]
For what we're about to receive,
we thank you Lord.
-In Jesus Christ name, Amen.
-Amen.
[sighs]
I miss Martha.
Yeah, me too.
Feels weird.
The house just
isn't the same without her.
-Hmm.
-[smacks lips]
I guess we should start looking
for a replacement.
Yeah, but,
where do you even start?
I'm sure the neighbors
will know someone.
I'll make some calls.
-Okay.
-Hmm.
As long as they're trustworthy.
-Can't be too careful nowadays.
-I know.
Uh, the show house today babe...
One of my clients, their friends
told me this story,
-honestly...
-Yeah?
Their friends told me
this story, right?
They hired a helper to take care
of their mother
who has Alzheimer's.
The mother died,
so they obviously
had to get rid of her.
only to find out that...
[scoffs]
she left with
the woman's jewelry,
worth hundreds
of thousands apparently.
-Wow.
-Yeah.
-Wow.
-Hmm.
That's why Martha
was so special.
Mm-hmm.
-We could trust her.
-Hmm.
[birds chirping]
[bird calling]
GEORGE OVER PHONE:
It's not my call.
This other guy swooped in
with an offer.
And he impressed
the hell out of our CEO.
He wants him managing
the account now,
like effective immediately.
Sorry, man.
This is where we part ways.
What can I say, George,
I guess I'm disappointed,
you know?
I Hope the other guy sucks.
And you guys come back to me
with your tail
between your legs.
GEORGE OVER PHONE: [chuckles]
Me too, man.
Take care, Tumi.
All right. Goodbye, George.
[dogs barking]
[cell phone chiming]
Hey.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Hey.
So, I spoke to Alexa.
She knows someone.
Her sister's helper's niece.
She's looking for work.
Okay, cool. Let's meet her.
KAT OVER PHONE:
What's wrong?
Merchants dropped me.
I lost the account.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Oh no! They were big!
Yes.
There's no loyalty in business.
Seven years down the drain.
[footsteps approaching]
Hey, those dishes aren't gonna
wash themselves, you know
[chuckles]
You're full of shit, you know?
-Baby, I just had a rough day.
-I had a rough day.
-Woah!
-[plates clatters]
My pills.
[sighs] You think
we should up the dose?
No. I'm fine.
I'm fine!
-Fine if they're working...
-I'm fine.
[ominous music, moaning sounds]
KAT:
Tumi and I,
we love to entertain.
Nothing fancy, you know,
just a dinner party now and then
I love to cook.
It's a passion of mine.
[stutters] Of course.
And we have a room
right here on the property
where you can stay rent-free.
Okay. Uh, how old are they?
[Refilwe swallowing]
They don't want to leave me.
They follow. [laughs]
[cell phone chimes]
[birds chirping]
HI. IT'S BLESSING :)
[]
You found it!
Please come in, come in...
-Thank you.
-[chuckles]
[groans] Excuse the mess.
We're still looking
for a new helper since Martha.
Please come through.
Let me show you.
[door opens, squeaks]
[]
[window rattling]
Over 10 years, Martha lived here
five days a week.
All yours,
anything you leave behind
I'm going to give away, though.
I... I just want to apologize,
for how I acted at the funeral.
You did scare me a bit.
I didn't realize
Martha told you
about that whole thing.
BLESSING:
I want to help you.
A calling is a gift
and it shouldn't
be taken lightly.
Um, thank you Blessing,
but I'm not taking it lightly.
I'm on strong medication,
prescribed by a real doctor.
You think it's a sickness?
Seeing and hearing things
that aren't there.
-That is a sickness.
-You're wrong.
KAT:
I'll be in the house
if you need anything.
[rain pattering]
[door closes]
[]
[cell phone chimes]
[cell phone chimes]
[birds chirping]
KAT:
What are you doing here?
How do you even know
where I work?
There's no fixing anything.
There's no us.
KAT:
That's why you came
all this way?
If you're not gone
in five minutes,
I'm going to call security.
Leave.
[footsteps fades]
MABLE:
It's a beautiful home.
Yoh!
[Kat sighs]
[stutters] It's a mess.
My husband and I
have been struggling.
We both work,
so we hardly have any time
to do housework.
What do you do?
-I'm an estate agent.
-MABLE: Oh.
I work for Sacks
and Brooks Realtors.
-Tumi's a chartered accountant.
-Wow!
KAT:
It helps that we can both
work from home
a few times a week.
So, tell me more about you.
I know you used to work
for a good friend
of mine, Bongi.
Was that full-time?
I worked twice a week.
Mostly housework and baby care.
So, you were also on nanny duty?
It must've been fun.
They're my little babies.
Well, you don't have
to worry about that with us.
We never had children.
No children?
[laughs] I have enough problems.
The last thing I wanted
is to pass them down to a child.
Can you cook?
Peri-peri chicken
is my speciality.
Delicious. I love spicy food.
[both laughs]
Please, let me show you around.
Yes, ma'am.
-Please, call me Kat.
-Okay.
[]
[dogs barking, howling]
There's no attitude, you know?
Some of these people
will make out,
like they're doing me a favor.
-TUMI: What's her name again?
-Refilwe.
It's pretty, hey.
[phone chimes]
[Kat sighs]
-KAT: Uh-oh.
-What?
-KAT: It's Blessing.
-So?
KAT:
She wants a handout.
Yoh, Babe!
Judgmental much?
-How do you know?
-Oh, please.
I noticed how she reacted
when she walked
through the lounge.
TUMI:
Oh, we already gave
at the funeral.
KAT:
Exactly.
She's just trying her luck.
-Uh, just ignore her.
-KAT: Hmm...
[chuckles]
You won't guess
who came by the office today.
-No!
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
-She didn't.
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
-For what?
-KAT: Same old...
Still having her 'visions'.
Still looking for any excuse
to see me.
TUMI:
Dude.
It's the way she'd gotten
the message by now,
-you know?
-Eish.
At least she's trying.
Maybe you should
give her a chance.
No.
[sighs]
-When is Refilwe coming again?
-Next week.
-That long?
-Yeah.
She's got travel arrangements
to make.
She's coming all the way
from Pretoria.
Okay. Okay.
-Then we need to decide
-Mm-hm.
who's washing up tonight.
Come on.
Okay. Let's go.
Ching... Chong...
-Cha!
-TUMI: Ah!
Fu--
ONSCREEN TEXHey, Refilwe, just checking
you're on your way?
ONSCREEN TEXCall me if you get lost.
ONSCREEN TEXConfirming my address
is 8 Tyrone Ave, Bankrose.
ONSCREEN TEXWhere are you?
[]
TUMI:
If she wasn't interested.
Why not just let us know?
[sighs]
Bongi says it's more common
than you think.
She also had a bunch of no-shows
when she was looking.
I'm telling you, she got
a better offer elsewhere
and couldn't be bothered
to tell us.
-[glass shattering]
-Argh! Come on!
[]
Maybe we should just
get one of those maid services.
I already tried.
It's a total rip off.
Okay. Then what?
Move into a one-bedroom flat
that isn't a nightmare to clean?
There is someone we can ask...
She probably already has a job.
Come on.
What's the harm in trying?
Let's at least see
if she's open to it.
I mean, her mom was a maid
her whole life.
Maybe it runs in the family.
At least, we know
we can trust her.
Do we?
[sighs]
[dogs barking at distance]
KAT:
We never got a chance
to clear out
the rest of the room so...
it's all yours now.
Please, come to the house
around five-thirty
to set up the table
and start dinner, okay?
Ma'am? Um...
Thank you for giving me
a chance.
I'm really looking forward
to helping you.
[chuckles] Five-thirty.
-Okay?
-Yes, ma'am.
[]
[Blessing grunts]
[groans]
[]
[sighs]
It was that snake, Dan!
He knew I was with Merchant's.
And he knew
they were my biggest client.
I don't understand how someone
can be so heartless.
Yeah. And he's always been
poaching clients, that guy.
Even back when we were
at Monet's firm.
And you sit here suffering,
while he takes what he wants!
TUMI:
He gets away with it
every single time.
There's just no justice
in this world.
Forget about it.
You'll find more clients.
It'll work itself out,
you'll see.
TUMI:
Hmm.
That smells interesting.
What are we having?
My speciality.
[chuckles] Enjoy.
-What is it?
-Looks like chicken.
Doesn't look that bad...
I think some salad will help.
[plates clattering]
It's like she's never been
in a kitchen before.
Well, she comes from a township
three hours away.
I mean, who would've taught her
how to cook?
Not everyone's been as lucky
as us, babe.
Nah-ah! This isn't luck.
You worked hard for this.
We put in blood,
sweat, and tears
to get to where we are.
And I'm sure she will too.
Look, we'll give her
a one-month trial period
-and see how she goes.
-We?
Who's going to teach her
and show her around, you?
Well, I mean
with work and stuff,
I'm trying to source
new clients...
Exactly.
[scoffs]
She doesn't take
after her mother,
that's for sure.
[laughs]
[chuckles]
[]
[]
BLESSING:
Good luck for work today, sir.
Thanks.
Sorry, I overheard you
and Katlego speaking.
Oh, that's fine.
I made this for you.
TUMI:
Okay. [chuckles]
Hmm.
What is it?
It's for good luck.
[coughs]
Spicy.
Grainy.
Good luck.
Don't tell Kat about this, okay?
You know how she feels
about these sort of things.
Oh, I've got a...
a contract. Nothing hectic.
It's just, uh, terms
of your employment
and states that
you'll be working for us.
Here you go.
For a trial month. Is that okay?
Mm-hmm.
Just here, where your name is.
-Here?
-Yeah.
[clears throat]
-Thank you.
-Pleasure, sir.
And uh, thanks for...
-Whatever that was.
-[laughs]
Alright, you--
you have a good day.
[]
[mysterious mumbled chanting]
[chanting]
[coughs]
What're you doing?
[stutters]
KAT:
Are you trying
to burn my house down?
I'm cleansing your home.
To remove any evil spirits.
You'll do no such thing.
Cleansing my home?
[]
I want us to be very clear
about how things are run
in this house, okay Blessing?
Ma'am, I'm sorry.
I really didn't mean to...
It's okay. It's fine.
It's just that...
I got a fright
with all the smoke, you know?
It's just-- it's very important
to cleanse a home
after there's been a death.
Yeah, I don't believe
in all that stuff, remember?
This is a Christian house.
We left all those beliefs
with our elders.
Do you understand?
[]
[toothbrush buzzes]
[doorbell rings]
BLESSING:
Hello?
[dialtone ringing]
Hello, ma'am.
There's someone at the gate.
He says he's here
to do the garden.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Sorry. I completely forgot
to tell you. That's Junior.
He comes in a few times a week.
You can let him in.
Oh, sorry ma'am.
I'll let him in.
[Blessing sighs]
[crickets chirping]
[rattling]
[footsteps approaching]
TUMI:
Yeah, obviously, it's terrible
what happened there.
I'm just glad you want me back.
Yeah.
I can be there first thing
tomorrow morning.
Mm-hmm.
Thanks George.
[chuckles]Ciao.
-Babe?
-Hmm.
TUMI:
That was Merchant's.
-They want me back.
-Honey, that's amazing!
What happened?
It's actually quite hectic.
Remember Dan?
Hmm, client poaching Dan?
Of course.
TUMI:
He was out cycling,
he had this terrible fall.
Broke both his arms.
He's gonna be out of action
for months apparently.
-He's in the hospital.
-That's terrible!
But you know what's weird?
I had this dream about him
the other night.
I feel terrible.
You have nothing
to feel terrible about.
It's not your fault he fell.
This actually looks good.
BLESSING:
It's an old recipe.
TUMI:
Hmm.
Hmm.
[munching] It's good.
You have something to say?
You seem just on edge.
That's all.
[scoffs]
[grunts]
This tastes like glass.
Nah-ah!
We said one month
with her? Right?
Nah-ah!
-Blessing.
-Ma'am.
KAT:
Listen.
If you're going to be working
under my roof,
you need to follow
my rules, okay?
You keep
your traditional recipes
and all the hocus pocus
out of this house.
I'm not interested,
and neither is Tumi. Okay?
From now on,
you prepare regular food.
[mysterious panting]
BLESSING:
Ma'am?
[mysterious panting]
Are you okay?
Consider this your last warning.
[]
[rattling sounds]
[sighs]
[huffs]
KAT:
There's no sugar.
I bought... I bought this,
like, a few days ago!
Look again!
[electric toothbrush buzzing]
[phone buzzing]
Kat, hello.
Ma...
All I want--
all I ever wanted
as a normal happy life...
All the superstition.
Ma, I don't understand it.
And with the pills
that I'm taking,
I never need to.
Ma, the gift you think
I have is gone!
It is gone! How many times
do I have to say this to you?
Jealous down.
[laughs]
[laughs]
Oh... waitress.
JUNIOR:
Oh...
[]
[groans]
[coughs]
And then?
[]
[sizzling]
-Don't forget the water.
-Yes, ma'am.
-Hm, something smells delicious.
-Mm-hmm
-Drinks ready?
-Yeah.
-They;re probably here soon.
-TUMI: On it.
You didn't like it?
If I eat any more, I'll pop.
TUMI:
She didn't like it.
BONGI:
Shut your face!
KAT:
Blessing!
TUMI:
Four months, hey.
Mm-hmm.
-Don't jinx it!
-[all chuckle]
You know, I've realized
that true romance
only happens after the divorce.
You guys should try it.
Oh no thanks,
it's cheaper to keep up.
I think we're doing okay.
[chuckles]
Oh. This is Blessing,
our new helper.
TSHEPO:
Oh, hello Sis' Blessing!
-BONGI: Hi, Blessing.
-Martha's daughter.
Thank you.
-You can bring the dessert.
-BLESSING: Yes, ma'am.
[clears throat] So...
What's she like?
[chuckles]
-She sucks.
-Babe!
It's true.
She's weird,
she hardly says a word
and she doesn't know
how to do anything!
BONGI:
Wow.
[clears throat]
-Thanks, Blessing.
-BLESSING: Pleasure, Sir.
She nearly burnt the house down.
-[gasps]
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
I come home from work
and she's burning the stuff.
-Impepho?
-KAT: Yes, exactly.
I come home and there's smoke.
The house is full.
I mean, full of smoke.
I thought there was a fire!
[gasps] So she's one of those?
TSHEPO:
What?
You know,
like into her 'traditions'.
She probably thinks
she can speak to the Ancestors
and that mixing
toe-nail clippings with nuts
will make you rich
or something!
Okay now, my grandparents
were deep into that stuff
and they would take me
to the Sangoma all the time.
And she would tell me about
how she spoke to the Ancestors.
There's nothing wrong
with Sangomas, Tshepo.
It's just an alternative form
of medicine,
like reiki or homeopathy.
BONGI:
See, that's not true
'cause anyone can do reiki.
But not everyone
can get the Calling
from the Ancestors, right Kat?
TSHEPO:
Oh, so you had the Calling?
You heard it?
TUMI:
She did but...
she resisted it.
TSHEPO:
Why?
Because it's not the ancestors.
It's a mental disorder.
Hearing voices, seeing things?
Why on earth would I want
to live like that every day?
TUMI:
She didn't want it.
Exactly.
As long as I'm on my meds...
I'm okay. I'm on the right path.
I mean, I thought that,
you know,
like once you heard the calling,
you had to answer it.
BONGI:
That's because you're a coconut
and you know nothing
about our culture.
You're basically like
the whitest black guy
-that I know.
-[Tumi laughing]
TSHEPO:
What? Bullshit!
I mean, you're way whiter
than I am.
Have you seen
the way that you dress?
Oof honey, have you seen
the way you dance?
[all laugh]
Well look, anyway,
I agree with Kat.
All this spiritual stuff
is old township superstition.
[groans] No. Look Kat.
You know, I think
there's more to it than that.
I wouldn't be so quick
to just write it off
as a mental disorder.
Who knows,
maybe if you embraced it,
you might just
surprise yourself.
Whatever Kat's got,
I'm pretty sure
there's a logical explanation
for it
that doesn't involve
all the spiritual crap.
No, no, no.
Hold on. It's not crap.
All I'm saying is that
people like to believe
this sort of stuff is true
because it's cheaper
than going to an actual doctor.
But it's bullshit.
There's a reason that people
like Blessing believe at all.
I mean, you're dealing
with an entire class of people
that is completely clueless!
[laughs] Obviously.
[clears throat] Thank you.
TSHEPO:
Thank you.
BONGI:
Thanks.
[all laugh]
-BONGI: Baby?
-TSEPHO: Yo!
I told you--
I told you close your mouth.
Guys.
-You gotta tame that!
-Tame?
How do you...?
There's no taming that, man.
BONGI:
Oh, come on.
That was funny.
-I've got to live with her.
-I've got to live with her.
Yeah, that's right. Sure.
[all laugh]
[utensils clattering]
It's late.
You can finish tomorrow.
Okay, ma'am.
[Bongi sighs, chuckles]
Sorry for opening
my big mouth.
It's fine.
I know it's all happening
in my head, you know?
Which actually makes it
a lot scarier, in a way.
You haven't spoken to her since
that night, have you?
No.
Ah guys, thank you so much
for tonight.
Yeah. Let's do brunch soon, hey?
[soft chuckle]
It was yummy, as always.
And, um, good luck with,
um, what's-her-name.
Hope she doesn't burn
the house down.
-Okay. Get out of here. Go.
-Bye.
-Bye.
-KAT: Bye.
[groans] I'm exhausted.
[door closes]
I wonder if Blessing heard us?
Even if she did, so what?
I ain't get it.
You don't like her.
Does that makes me a bitch?
Yes.
-But a sexy bitch.
-[laughs]
It's okay.
A month is almost over.
And in a few days
we can say thanks but no thanks
Can we just get to that part?
-You follow me.
-Oh.
[]
[breathing heavily]
[rhythmic banging]
[snorts]
[]
[chanting, clapping]
[]
[rhythmic banging]
[coughs]
[coughs]
[gasping]
TSHEPO:
What's going on, babe?
[gasping]
Bongi? Bongi?
Bongi?
Baby, what's going on?
[coughing, gasping]
Bongi?
TSHEPO:
Bongi?
[Bongi choking]
TSHEPO:
Bongi? No, man.
Come on. No!
Bongi! Bongi!
[speaking indistinctly]
[]
-TSHEPO: Bongi! Bongi!
-[Bongi coughs]
Shit. Okay, I'm calling
an ambulance, okay?
[Bongi gasps]
TSHEPO:
I'm coming back.
[inaudible]
[]
[Bongi gasping]
KAT:
Blessing!
It was there last night
when I took them out.
So, it couldn't have
just disappeared.
I want to know, where is it.
This is an antique set!
TUMI:
Woah, what's going on?
KAT:
I'm missing a fork.
It has to be there somewhere.
Maybe it's in the dining room.
TUMI:
I already looked it's not there.
Maybe you didn't check
hard enough...
TUMI:
Blessing, please look again.
Yes, sir.
[whispers]
I'm telling you,
she took it .
Why would she take your fork?
I don't know why she take it,
but she took it.
BLESSING:
I found it.
KAT:
Where was it?
BLESSING:
It was under the cabinet.
Why does it look like
it's been under a rock
for 50 years.
KAT:
It's fine I'll clean it.
TUMI:
Thanks, Blessing.
Pleasure Sir.
Babe...
Can we not make it like the help
is out to get us?
Come on. We're better than that.
I just had a bad night.
The nightmares are back?
You haven't had them for ages.
Don't even...
Please.
[cell phone ringing]
It's Tshepo.
Yo!
You're already asking
for seconds, huh?
You want some leftovers?
-We're going to be late!
-TUMI: I'm coming.
Tumi!
TUMI:
Okay. Alright alright I'm ready.
-Let's go.
-Do you have the keys?
-TUMI: Don't you have the keys?
-Oh, my God!
We're going to be so late!
I found them.
[glass shatters]
Sorry, ma'am.
Let's just get
out of here, please.
Money maker!
[both laughs]
It's all because of you.
...at the right time.
Otherwise, they'll be weak.
It wasn't that powerful.
-KAT: Blessing.
-Yes, ma'am?
I need you to come in
and pull the curtains.
Yes, ma'am.
JUNIOR:
Yeah.
BLESSING:
Make sure that they're even.
[]
-Ma'am?
-Hm?
For you.
A remedy.
It'll help.
With what?
Your friend, the one who died.
Thanks.
[]
[humming]
GEORGE:
Sir?
[indistinct chatter]
Seventy-five percent.
GEORGE:
No! [snaps finger]
Tumi!
Sorry, I um...
[phone rings]
[distorted sounds]
[]
It's probably in the wash,
just try something else.
No. No.
-Bongi bought it for me.
-Well it's not here.
Obviously.
Can you just ask Blessing
to check in the wash
It's a purple blouse
with the buttons here. Please.
[]
I'm done with her, Tumi.
She freaks me out.
She's into all those rituals
and stuff.
TUMI:
So were you Once Upon a time.
All the ingredients,
the recipes.
No one knew them
better than you.
KAT:
Not by choice!
[]
TUMI:
I'll talk to her tomorrow, okay?
[]
What?
-[chuckles]
-Not tonight.
JUNIOR:
Blessing.
Blessing.
[speaks Zulu]
She closed the door.
[sighs]
TUMI:
Blessing...
Sir!
TUMI:
Um...
As you know, your trial period
has come to an end.
Sir...
-I found the shirt.
-Sorry?
The purple blouse,
it was in
the washing machine, sir.
I found it.
Oh, great.
Kat will be pleased.
[smack lips] Um...
You've done a great job so far.
But...
It's just not gonna workout.
We'll pay you for the rest
of the month, in full.
Um...
but if you find
something sooner,
you're welcome to leave.
And, um...
you should probably
start on that.
Um...
we're gonna need you to um...
find another place to stay.
We'll give you
an extra week of course,
to get your stuff in order
rent free, of course.
[]
TUMI:
Okay.
The sooner she's out of here,
the better.
Well then I'm getting
a maid service,
I don't care how much it costs.
I'm not scrubbing
any more toilets.
KAT:
Works for me.
I just don't want anymore
of her weird spiritual stuff
in the house.
It's... dirty...
[]
TUMI:
Babe!
Have you seen
my toothbrush here?
It's funny what's gone missing
since Blessing
came into our lives.
[huffs]
[]
[]
[mysterious whispers]
[breathes heavily]
[Tumi spits]
[door opens]
[door closes]
Oh...
Blessing, you're still here.
BLESSING:
I just want to say thank you.
For what?
BLESSING:
For giving me a second chance.
I promise, I'll do better.
Excuse me?
BLESSING:
Tumi told me the good news.
You're extending my contract.
[]
KAT:
You said she could stay?
You extended her contract.
Tumi!
Blessing is a good worker.
How could you do this
without me?
I... I thought we were
on the same page!
[scoffs]
She's already signed it.
Wow.
For six more months?
Three written warnings
before dismissal?
We can't fire her without cause.
You definitely
made sure of that.
Are you sleeping with her?
What-- what,
is she blackmailing you?
-Kat.
-KAT: Make me understand.
We agreed to let her go!
She deserves another chance.
[grunts]
[]
[Tsepho sighs, clears throat]
TSHEPO:
No.
No drugs in her system.
They just said
it was a freak muscle spasm.
Her throat tightened
and locked up.
But...
doesn't make any sense.
I wish I could talk to her
more than anything right now.
What else?
What's going on?
It's Blessing.
Your domestic?
I wanted to get rid of her
and Tumi told her
she could stay.
We had such a huge fight
about it.
TSHEPO:
What's the problem?
It just feels like...
it just doesn't feel
like my space anymore.
It's like she's infected it.
TSHEPO:
I mean, you know,
it's a new person in your home.
It's gonna be an adjustment.
Maybe you just need
to get used to her.
Maybe.
[doorbell rings]
DETECTIVE MOSS:
My name is Detective Moss.
I'm with the SAPD.
[door opens]
According to records,
your previous maid
Martha Nkanya,
she passed away
from heart failure.
Is that correct?
Coffee for you, sir.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
BLESSING:
My pleasure.
I'm-- I'm really sorry
for your loss.
I'm actually here
regarding Martha's daughter...
Blessing.
I'm just gonna come out
and say it.
Blessing Nkanya
was found murdered,
but we think
it's related to muti killings,
given the brutal state
of the body.
It's-- it's an ongoing issue.
Muti killings?
Yeah, ritual murder.
The victim's body parts
are removed
while they're still alive...
and then used medicinally
for all sorts of things.
It's believed that
the victim's suffering
enhances the muti' strength.
It's ugly stuff.
When last did you and your wife
had any contact with Blessing?
-That's enough.
-DETECTIVE MOSS: Excuse me?
[]
Don't worry about the mess,
I'll clean it up.
[water splashing]
[door opens]
[water splashing]
What happened?
BLESSING:
Accident.
Accident?
Tumi spilt his coffee.
Is that so?
Where is Tumi?
-BLESSING: He's out.
-KAT: Out where?
I don't know.
KAT:
Blessing?
Ma'am?
Tumi doesn't drink coffee.
Maybe it was tea.
[]
[ominous music, chanting]
[rhythmic banging]
[ominous music, chanting]
[cell phone chimes]
ONSCREEN TEXCall me. Please call me back.
Urgent. We need to talk.
ONSCREEN TEXHow can we fix this?
Mom?
[mysterious rattling]
TUMI OVER VOICEMAIL:
Hey, this is Tumi.
You know what to do.
[]
What are you doing? Huh?
What's-- what's wrong?
What's going on?
BLESSING:
Ma'am?
Is he feeling okay?
I heard noises.
It's just. I don't...
Let's just get him
inside, please.
BLESSING:
Yes ma'am.
Why are you so dirty?
He looks tired
Drink.
[coughs]
BLESSING:
Drink it all, yes.
[Tumi slurping]
BLESSING:
Ma'am he needs to rest.
Yeah, I'll get him to bed.
[]
[mysterious rattling]
[]
[distorted screeches]
-I slept very well last night.
-Oh, wonderful!
Good morning, Miss!
KAT:
How are you feeling?
TUMI:
Better.
I had some weird dreams
last night. Sure.
You woke up late this morning.
Are you not going
to be late for work?
You don't think we should
take you to a doctor?
Do you remember
what you did yesterday?
TUMI:
The usual,
nothing out of the ordinary.
Ma'am, I made you something
to drink.
[stutters]
How much do you remember?
Do you at least remember
what we spoke about?
Why are you questioning me?
BLESSING:
It's my own recipe,
it'll help you feel better.
KAT:
Because you haven't been
yourself lately.
[Tumi] I'm fine!
Thanks to this lovely lady
right here.
[Blessing laughs]
BLESSING:
Are you sure
you don't want your tea?
I don't want your damn tea!
BLESSING:
Sure?
TUMI:
Hey, what's going on with you?
With me? [scoffs]
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
Babe, come here.
[groans]
It's Blessing...
she needs to go.
Aw. She's not that bad,
you'll see.
I called my mother.
She'll be here tomorrow.
You were the one pushing for me
to reach out to her.
I'll tell Blessing
to make up the extra room.
[]
[]
[whisperings]
[panting]
[]
[Kat breathing heavily]
[shrieks]
[breathing heavily]
[groans]
[breathing heavily]
[]
[keys jingling]
[]
[doorbell rings]
[car door closes]
[sighs]
[]
TUMI:
It's so good to see you Thando,
you're looking healthy.
[laughs]
[clears throat]
We like her very much.
[soft chuckle]
[]
Hmm, she's part of the family.
[Tumi munching]
Tumi is just finishing up
some work in the study.
Call it what you want, Ma.
It's just--
it's worse than ever.
It's like my pills
have just stopped working.
[sighs]
[breathes heavily]
[chanting]
[chanting continues]
[chanting continues]
[pants]
[gasps]
[breathing heavily]
[moaning]
[both moans, grunts]
THANDO:
[speaking Zulu]
[breathes heavily]
[]
[panting]
[chicken clacking]
[chanting]
[pants, sobs]
[rattling sound]
[groans]
She knew I rejected my calling.
And she knew the moment we met?
[grunts]
No...
No, I didn't know.
But you took it out of me.
[grunts]
[panting]
By almost killing
your own daughter.
[grunts]
[speaks Zulu]
[]
[chanting]
I'm still taking them.
What?
Hang on.
It doesn't make sense.
[]
[Thando chanting]
[chanting continues]
[breathing heavily]
[moaning]
[]
[chanting in Zulu]
[chanting in Zulu]
KAT:
Tumi hasn't been himself lately.
[chanting]
[chanting]
[grunts]
[chanting]
[chanting, clapping]
[]
THANDO:
[chanting in Zulu]
What are you looking for?
[chanting]
KAT:
That's my bra!
[rattling sound]
[]
Blessing.
[screams, pants]
[banging]
Kat!
[]
Tumi!
Kat!
[screams]
[Junior breathes heavily]
[panting]
[speaks Zulu]
[panting]
[Junior moans]
[screams in pain]
[Junior moans]
[mumbled scream]
Katlego!
[]
[]
KAT:
[speaks indistinctly]
Hmm?
[chuckles]
[screams]
[Kat cries]
Mama!
[cries]
So much potential
inside of you.
Each piece of you.
I just wanted to help you,
but you mocked me.
You refused.
So now...
I'm just going to help myself.
[Kat moans]
[chanting]
[]
[]
Tumi, hold her down.
[whispers in Zulu]
[Kat moans, screams]
[Kat screams]
-[click]
-[mysterious whispers]
[Tumi groans]
TUMI:
Katlego.
-[screams]
-[Blessing moans]
[Blessing moans]
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
[]
What are you gonna do?
[]
[Kat chants]
You don't deserve any of it.
But it's a thing
I intend on changing...
[Blessing screams]
[Kat chants]
[Blessing screaming]
[]
[growling]
[whisperings]
[]
[blood splattering]
[]
[bones rattling]
KAT:
Our culture believes that life
does not end with death,
but continues in another realm
inhabited by Amadlozi.
It is said Amadlozi reach out
to a select group of people
offering them
special abilities.
These people are called
by Amadlozi
to accept these gifts,
and live as a Sangoma.
Helping and healing
those in need.
When I was a child,
I was afraid of my gift.
I thought
I wanted a different life
from my calling.
But it is said,
you cannot reject ubizo
for you are called upon
for a reason.
How can I help?
[clapping]
[]
[]
[elevator whirring]
[]
[elevator dings]
[muscle car engine revving]
[thunder rumbling]
[]
[crow cawing]
[bones rattling]
KAT:
Our culture believes that life
does not end with death,
but continues in another realm,
inhabited by Amadlozi
our Ancestors.
It it said
the Amadlozi reach out
to a select group
of people, offering them
special abilities.
There are those that
hear Ubizo, and reject it.
Fearful of the sacrifice
it requires.
[]
[birds chirping]
[shoppers rustling]
[footsteps thumping]
[]
[furniture dragging]
-[rhythmic rattling]
-[Blessing chanting]
[]
[phone buzzing]
PRIVATE NUMBER
MAN OVER PHONE:
Blessing Nkanya?
[]
[door closes]
[birds chirping]
-We missed it.
-Shit!
At least we tried.
We are going to hit traffic
so hard.
It's not like we were given
a set time or anything
Argh, my shoes!
Um...
Um...
You know what? Here you go.
Sorry we missed it.
Thanks.
[indistinct chattering]
FOOD JOINBLESSING
Blessing?
Is that you?
Babe?
-It's Blessing.
-TUMI: Blessing!
[both chuckles]
-Do you remember us?
-She couldn't remember us.
Uh, I'm Katlego
and this is my husband, Tumi.
Your mother,
she used to work for us.
You used to live with us.
Yeah. You were like, yay high.
Chubby.
You couldn't have been
more than five or six
before Martha
sent you back home.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Martha was part of the family.
How did she die?
No one told you?
[scoffs] Typical.
It was a heart attack.
KAT:
We were out shopping,
came home
and found her
on the kitchen floor.
Um, it was sudden,
the doctor said
she didn't suffer.
Mm.
Martha spoke about you
all the time.
Hmm.
We left something
with the pastor.
Please make sure
you get it, okay?
-I'm so glad we met.
-Um...
Did she leave anything?
Anything I should have?
Of course!
All of your mother's things
are at the house.
You can come by anytime.
Here, take my number.
[sniffles]
[phone starts]
[]
[silence]
-Excuse me?
-Listen, we don't believe...
in all that traditional
ancestral stuff.
You can't ignore who you are.
It's nice meeting you, Blessing.
[sighs]
Martha's daughter...
Bit of a weirdo, hey.
How did she know about that?
Mothers and daughters talk.
Martha probably said something.
[engine starts]
It was quite an ordeal.
[indefinite muffled chanting]
[muffled chanting continues]
[]
[mysterious music, chanting]
THE DOMESTIC
[crows cawing]
[]
[phone rings]
-[toothbrush buzzing]
-[gargling]
[spits]
Hmm.
Hmm.
TUMI:
I never get coffee drinkers.
You might not like it,
but you know how to make it.
-You're not eating?
-It's my fast day, remember?
-Oh...
-It's fine, just leave it for...
Nice to see that Martha's death
left such an impression
on you, darling.
Don't start. I'm in a rush.
What am I supposed
to do with this?
Improvise.
See you tonight.
-Have a good one.
-You too.
[scrunches]
[plate clatters]
[]
[]
[sizzling]
For what we're about to receive,
we thank you Lord.
-In Jesus Christ name, Amen.
-Amen.
[sighs]
I miss Martha.
Yeah, me too.
Feels weird.
The house just
isn't the same without her.
-Hmm.
-[smacks lips]
I guess we should start looking
for a replacement.
Yeah, but,
where do you even start?
I'm sure the neighbors
will know someone.
I'll make some calls.
-Okay.
-Hmm.
As long as they're trustworthy.
-Can't be too careful nowadays.
-I know.
Uh, the show house today babe...
One of my clients, their friends
told me this story,
-honestly...
-Yeah?
Their friends told me
this story, right?
They hired a helper to take care
of their mother
who has Alzheimer's.
The mother died,
so they obviously
had to get rid of her.
only to find out that...
[scoffs]
she left with
the woman's jewelry,
worth hundreds
of thousands apparently.
-Wow.
-Yeah.
-Wow.
-Hmm.
That's why Martha
was so special.
Mm-hmm.
-We could trust her.
-Hmm.
[birds chirping]
[bird calling]
GEORGE OVER PHONE:
It's not my call.
This other guy swooped in
with an offer.
And he impressed
the hell out of our CEO.
He wants him managing
the account now,
like effective immediately.
Sorry, man.
This is where we part ways.
What can I say, George,
I guess I'm disappointed,
you know?
I Hope the other guy sucks.
And you guys come back to me
with your tail
between your legs.
GEORGE OVER PHONE: [chuckles]
Me too, man.
Take care, Tumi.
All right. Goodbye, George.
[dogs barking]
[cell phone chiming]
Hey.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Hey.
So, I spoke to Alexa.
She knows someone.
Her sister's helper's niece.
She's looking for work.
Okay, cool. Let's meet her.
KAT OVER PHONE:
What's wrong?
Merchants dropped me.
I lost the account.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Oh no! They were big!
Yes.
There's no loyalty in business.
Seven years down the drain.
[footsteps approaching]
Hey, those dishes aren't gonna
wash themselves, you know
[chuckles]
You're full of shit, you know?
-Baby, I just had a rough day.
-I had a rough day.
-Woah!
-[plates clatters]
My pills.
[sighs] You think
we should up the dose?
No. I'm fine.
I'm fine!
-Fine if they're working...
-I'm fine.
[ominous music, moaning sounds]
KAT:
Tumi and I,
we love to entertain.
Nothing fancy, you know,
just a dinner party now and then
I love to cook.
It's a passion of mine.
[stutters] Of course.
And we have a room
right here on the property
where you can stay rent-free.
Okay. Uh, how old are they?
[Refilwe swallowing]
They don't want to leave me.
They follow. [laughs]
[cell phone chimes]
[birds chirping]
HI. IT'S BLESSING :)
[]
You found it!
Please come in, come in...
-Thank you.
-[chuckles]
[groans] Excuse the mess.
We're still looking
for a new helper since Martha.
Please come through.
Let me show you.
[door opens, squeaks]
[]
[window rattling]
Over 10 years, Martha lived here
five days a week.
All yours,
anything you leave behind
I'm going to give away, though.
I... I just want to apologize,
for how I acted at the funeral.
You did scare me a bit.
I didn't realize
Martha told you
about that whole thing.
BLESSING:
I want to help you.
A calling is a gift
and it shouldn't
be taken lightly.
Um, thank you Blessing,
but I'm not taking it lightly.
I'm on strong medication,
prescribed by a real doctor.
You think it's a sickness?
Seeing and hearing things
that aren't there.
-That is a sickness.
-You're wrong.
KAT:
I'll be in the house
if you need anything.
[rain pattering]
[door closes]
[]
[cell phone chimes]
[cell phone chimes]
[birds chirping]
KAT:
What are you doing here?
How do you even know
where I work?
There's no fixing anything.
There's no us.
KAT:
That's why you came
all this way?
If you're not gone
in five minutes,
I'm going to call security.
Leave.
[footsteps fades]
MABLE:
It's a beautiful home.
Yoh!
[Kat sighs]
[stutters] It's a mess.
My husband and I
have been struggling.
We both work,
so we hardly have any time
to do housework.
What do you do?
-I'm an estate agent.
-MABLE: Oh.
I work for Sacks
and Brooks Realtors.
-Tumi's a chartered accountant.
-Wow!
KAT:
It helps that we can both
work from home
a few times a week.
So, tell me more about you.
I know you used to work
for a good friend
of mine, Bongi.
Was that full-time?
I worked twice a week.
Mostly housework and baby care.
So, you were also on nanny duty?
It must've been fun.
They're my little babies.
Well, you don't have
to worry about that with us.
We never had children.
No children?
[laughs] I have enough problems.
The last thing I wanted
is to pass them down to a child.
Can you cook?
Peri-peri chicken
is my speciality.
Delicious. I love spicy food.
[both laughs]
Please, let me show you around.
Yes, ma'am.
-Please, call me Kat.
-Okay.
[]
[dogs barking, howling]
There's no attitude, you know?
Some of these people
will make out,
like they're doing me a favor.
-TUMI: What's her name again?
-Refilwe.
It's pretty, hey.
[phone chimes]
[Kat sighs]
-KAT: Uh-oh.
-What?
-KAT: It's Blessing.
-So?
KAT:
She wants a handout.
Yoh, Babe!
Judgmental much?
-How do you know?
-Oh, please.
I noticed how she reacted
when she walked
through the lounge.
TUMI:
Oh, we already gave
at the funeral.
KAT:
Exactly.
She's just trying her luck.
-Uh, just ignore her.
-KAT: Hmm...
[chuckles]
You won't guess
who came by the office today.
-No!
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
-She didn't.
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
-For what?
-KAT: Same old...
Still having her 'visions'.
Still looking for any excuse
to see me.
TUMI:
Dude.
It's the way she'd gotten
the message by now,
-you know?
-Eish.
At least she's trying.
Maybe you should
give her a chance.
No.
[sighs]
-When is Refilwe coming again?
-Next week.
-That long?
-Yeah.
She's got travel arrangements
to make.
She's coming all the way
from Pretoria.
Okay. Okay.
-Then we need to decide
-Mm-hm.
who's washing up tonight.
Come on.
Okay. Let's go.
Ching... Chong...
-Cha!
-TUMI: Ah!
Fu--
ONSCREEN TEXHey, Refilwe, just checking
you're on your way?
ONSCREEN TEXCall me if you get lost.
ONSCREEN TEXConfirming my address
is 8 Tyrone Ave, Bankrose.
ONSCREEN TEXWhere are you?
[]
TUMI:
If she wasn't interested.
Why not just let us know?
[sighs]
Bongi says it's more common
than you think.
She also had a bunch of no-shows
when she was looking.
I'm telling you, she got
a better offer elsewhere
and couldn't be bothered
to tell us.
-[glass shattering]
-Argh! Come on!
[]
Maybe we should just
get one of those maid services.
I already tried.
It's a total rip off.
Okay. Then what?
Move into a one-bedroom flat
that isn't a nightmare to clean?
There is someone we can ask...
She probably already has a job.
Come on.
What's the harm in trying?
Let's at least see
if she's open to it.
I mean, her mom was a maid
her whole life.
Maybe it runs in the family.
At least, we know
we can trust her.
Do we?
[sighs]
[dogs barking at distance]
KAT:
We never got a chance
to clear out
the rest of the room so...
it's all yours now.
Please, come to the house
around five-thirty
to set up the table
and start dinner, okay?
Ma'am? Um...
Thank you for giving me
a chance.
I'm really looking forward
to helping you.
[chuckles] Five-thirty.
-Okay?
-Yes, ma'am.
[]
[Blessing grunts]
[groans]
[]
[sighs]
It was that snake, Dan!
He knew I was with Merchant's.
And he knew
they were my biggest client.
I don't understand how someone
can be so heartless.
Yeah. And he's always been
poaching clients, that guy.
Even back when we were
at Monet's firm.
And you sit here suffering,
while he takes what he wants!
TUMI:
He gets away with it
every single time.
There's just no justice
in this world.
Forget about it.
You'll find more clients.
It'll work itself out,
you'll see.
TUMI:
Hmm.
That smells interesting.
What are we having?
My speciality.
[chuckles] Enjoy.
-What is it?
-Looks like chicken.
Doesn't look that bad...
I think some salad will help.
[plates clattering]
It's like she's never been
in a kitchen before.
Well, she comes from a township
three hours away.
I mean, who would've taught her
how to cook?
Not everyone's been as lucky
as us, babe.
Nah-ah! This isn't luck.
You worked hard for this.
We put in blood,
sweat, and tears
to get to where we are.
And I'm sure she will too.
Look, we'll give her
a one-month trial period
-and see how she goes.
-We?
Who's going to teach her
and show her around, you?
Well, I mean
with work and stuff,
I'm trying to source
new clients...
Exactly.
[scoffs]
She doesn't take
after her mother,
that's for sure.
[laughs]
[chuckles]
[]
[]
BLESSING:
Good luck for work today, sir.
Thanks.
Sorry, I overheard you
and Katlego speaking.
Oh, that's fine.
I made this for you.
TUMI:
Okay. [chuckles]
Hmm.
What is it?
It's for good luck.
[coughs]
Spicy.
Grainy.
Good luck.
Don't tell Kat about this, okay?
You know how she feels
about these sort of things.
Oh, I've got a...
a contract. Nothing hectic.
It's just, uh, terms
of your employment
and states that
you'll be working for us.
Here you go.
For a trial month. Is that okay?
Mm-hmm.
Just here, where your name is.
-Here?
-Yeah.
[clears throat]
-Thank you.
-Pleasure, sir.
And uh, thanks for...
-Whatever that was.
-[laughs]
Alright, you--
you have a good day.
[]
[mysterious mumbled chanting]
[chanting]
[coughs]
What're you doing?
[stutters]
KAT:
Are you trying
to burn my house down?
I'm cleansing your home.
To remove any evil spirits.
You'll do no such thing.
Cleansing my home?
[]
I want us to be very clear
about how things are run
in this house, okay Blessing?
Ma'am, I'm sorry.
I really didn't mean to...
It's okay. It's fine.
It's just that...
I got a fright
with all the smoke, you know?
It's just-- it's very important
to cleanse a home
after there's been a death.
Yeah, I don't believe
in all that stuff, remember?
This is a Christian house.
We left all those beliefs
with our elders.
Do you understand?
[]
[toothbrush buzzes]
[doorbell rings]
BLESSING:
Hello?
[dialtone ringing]
Hello, ma'am.
There's someone at the gate.
He says he's here
to do the garden.
KAT OVER PHONE:
Sorry. I completely forgot
to tell you. That's Junior.
He comes in a few times a week.
You can let him in.
Oh, sorry ma'am.
I'll let him in.
[Blessing sighs]
[crickets chirping]
[rattling]
[footsteps approaching]
TUMI:
Yeah, obviously, it's terrible
what happened there.
I'm just glad you want me back.
Yeah.
I can be there first thing
tomorrow morning.
Mm-hmm.
Thanks George.
[chuckles]Ciao.
-Babe?
-Hmm.
TUMI:
That was Merchant's.
-They want me back.
-Honey, that's amazing!
What happened?
It's actually quite hectic.
Remember Dan?
Hmm, client poaching Dan?
Of course.
TUMI:
He was out cycling,
he had this terrible fall.
Broke both his arms.
He's gonna be out of action
for months apparently.
-He's in the hospital.
-That's terrible!
But you know what's weird?
I had this dream about him
the other night.
I feel terrible.
You have nothing
to feel terrible about.
It's not your fault he fell.
This actually looks good.
BLESSING:
It's an old recipe.
TUMI:
Hmm.
Hmm.
[munching] It's good.
You have something to say?
You seem just on edge.
That's all.
[scoffs]
[grunts]
This tastes like glass.
Nah-ah!
We said one month
with her? Right?
Nah-ah!
-Blessing.
-Ma'am.
KAT:
Listen.
If you're going to be working
under my roof,
you need to follow
my rules, okay?
You keep
your traditional recipes
and all the hocus pocus
out of this house.
I'm not interested,
and neither is Tumi. Okay?
From now on,
you prepare regular food.
[mysterious panting]
BLESSING:
Ma'am?
[mysterious panting]
Are you okay?
Consider this your last warning.
[]
[rattling sounds]
[sighs]
[huffs]
KAT:
There's no sugar.
I bought... I bought this,
like, a few days ago!
Look again!
[electric toothbrush buzzing]
[phone buzzing]
Kat, hello.
Ma...
All I want--
all I ever wanted
as a normal happy life...
All the superstition.
Ma, I don't understand it.
And with the pills
that I'm taking,
I never need to.
Ma, the gift you think
I have is gone!
It is gone! How many times
do I have to say this to you?
Jealous down.
[laughs]
[laughs]
Oh... waitress.
JUNIOR:
Oh...
[]
[groans]
[coughs]
And then?
[]
[sizzling]
-Don't forget the water.
-Yes, ma'am.
-Hm, something smells delicious.
-Mm-hmm
-Drinks ready?
-Yeah.
-They;re probably here soon.
-TUMI: On it.
You didn't like it?
If I eat any more, I'll pop.
TUMI:
She didn't like it.
BONGI:
Shut your face!
KAT:
Blessing!
TUMI:
Four months, hey.
Mm-hmm.
-Don't jinx it!
-[all chuckle]
You know, I've realized
that true romance
only happens after the divorce.
You guys should try it.
Oh no thanks,
it's cheaper to keep up.
I think we're doing okay.
[chuckles]
Oh. This is Blessing,
our new helper.
TSHEPO:
Oh, hello Sis' Blessing!
-BONGI: Hi, Blessing.
-Martha's daughter.
Thank you.
-You can bring the dessert.
-BLESSING: Yes, ma'am.
[clears throat] So...
What's she like?
[chuckles]
-She sucks.
-Babe!
It's true.
She's weird,
she hardly says a word
and she doesn't know
how to do anything!
BONGI:
Wow.
[clears throat]
-Thanks, Blessing.
-BLESSING: Pleasure, Sir.
She nearly burnt the house down.
-[gasps]
-KAT: Mm-hmm.
I come home from work
and she's burning the stuff.
-Impepho?
-KAT: Yes, exactly.
I come home and there's smoke.
The house is full.
I mean, full of smoke.
I thought there was a fire!
[gasps] So she's one of those?
TSHEPO:
What?
You know,
like into her 'traditions'.
She probably thinks
she can speak to the Ancestors
and that mixing
toe-nail clippings with nuts
will make you rich
or something!
Okay now, my grandparents
were deep into that stuff
and they would take me
to the Sangoma all the time.
And she would tell me about
how she spoke to the Ancestors.
There's nothing wrong
with Sangomas, Tshepo.
It's just an alternative form
of medicine,
like reiki or homeopathy.
BONGI:
See, that's not true
'cause anyone can do reiki.
But not everyone
can get the Calling
from the Ancestors, right Kat?
TSHEPO:
Oh, so you had the Calling?
You heard it?
TUMI:
She did but...
she resisted it.
TSHEPO:
Why?
Because it's not the ancestors.
It's a mental disorder.
Hearing voices, seeing things?
Why on earth would I want
to live like that every day?
TUMI:
She didn't want it.
Exactly.
As long as I'm on my meds...
I'm okay. I'm on the right path.
I mean, I thought that,
you know,
like once you heard the calling,
you had to answer it.
BONGI:
That's because you're a coconut
and you know nothing
about our culture.
You're basically like
the whitest black guy
-that I know.
-[Tumi laughing]
TSHEPO:
What? Bullshit!
I mean, you're way whiter
than I am.
Have you seen
the way that you dress?
Oof honey, have you seen
the way you dance?
[all laugh]
Well look, anyway,
I agree with Kat.
All this spiritual stuff
is old township superstition.
[groans] No. Look Kat.
You know, I think
there's more to it than that.
I wouldn't be so quick
to just write it off
as a mental disorder.
Who knows,
maybe if you embraced it,
you might just
surprise yourself.
Whatever Kat's got,
I'm pretty sure
there's a logical explanation
for it
that doesn't involve
all the spiritual crap.
No, no, no.
Hold on. It's not crap.
All I'm saying is that
people like to believe
this sort of stuff is true
because it's cheaper
than going to an actual doctor.
But it's bullshit.
There's a reason that people
like Blessing believe at all.
I mean, you're dealing
with an entire class of people
that is completely clueless!
[laughs] Obviously.
[clears throat] Thank you.
TSHEPO:
Thank you.
BONGI:
Thanks.
[all laugh]
-BONGI: Baby?
-TSEPHO: Yo!
I told you--
I told you close your mouth.
Guys.
-You gotta tame that!
-Tame?
How do you...?
There's no taming that, man.
BONGI:
Oh, come on.
That was funny.
-I've got to live with her.
-I've got to live with her.
Yeah, that's right. Sure.
[all laugh]
[utensils clattering]
It's late.
You can finish tomorrow.
Okay, ma'am.
[Bongi sighs, chuckles]
Sorry for opening
my big mouth.
It's fine.
I know it's all happening
in my head, you know?
Which actually makes it
a lot scarier, in a way.
You haven't spoken to her since
that night, have you?
No.
Ah guys, thank you so much
for tonight.
Yeah. Let's do brunch soon, hey?
[soft chuckle]
It was yummy, as always.
And, um, good luck with,
um, what's-her-name.
Hope she doesn't burn
the house down.
-Okay. Get out of here. Go.
-Bye.
-Bye.
-KAT: Bye.
[groans] I'm exhausted.
[door closes]
I wonder if Blessing heard us?
Even if she did, so what?
I ain't get it.
You don't like her.
Does that makes me a bitch?
Yes.
-But a sexy bitch.
-[laughs]
It's okay.
A month is almost over.
And in a few days
we can say thanks but no thanks
Can we just get to that part?
-You follow me.
-Oh.
[]
[breathing heavily]
[rhythmic banging]
[snorts]
[]
[chanting, clapping]
[]
[rhythmic banging]
[coughs]
[coughs]
[gasping]
TSHEPO:
What's going on, babe?
[gasping]
Bongi? Bongi?
Bongi?
Baby, what's going on?
[coughing, gasping]
Bongi?
TSHEPO:
Bongi?
[Bongi choking]
TSHEPO:
Bongi? No, man.
Come on. No!
Bongi! Bongi!
[speaking indistinctly]
[]
-TSHEPO: Bongi! Bongi!
-[Bongi coughs]
Shit. Okay, I'm calling
an ambulance, okay?
[Bongi gasps]
TSHEPO:
I'm coming back.
[inaudible]
[]
[Bongi gasping]
KAT:
Blessing!
It was there last night
when I took them out.
So, it couldn't have
just disappeared.
I want to know, where is it.
This is an antique set!
TUMI:
Woah, what's going on?
KAT:
I'm missing a fork.
It has to be there somewhere.
Maybe it's in the dining room.
TUMI:
I already looked it's not there.
Maybe you didn't check
hard enough...
TUMI:
Blessing, please look again.
Yes, sir.
[whispers]
I'm telling you,
she took it .
Why would she take your fork?
I don't know why she take it,
but she took it.
BLESSING:
I found it.
KAT:
Where was it?
BLESSING:
It was under the cabinet.
Why does it look like
it's been under a rock
for 50 years.
KAT:
It's fine I'll clean it.
TUMI:
Thanks, Blessing.
Pleasure Sir.
Babe...
Can we not make it like the help
is out to get us?
Come on. We're better than that.
I just had a bad night.
The nightmares are back?
You haven't had them for ages.
Don't even...
Please.
[cell phone ringing]
It's Tshepo.
Yo!
You're already asking
for seconds, huh?
You want some leftovers?
-We're going to be late!
-TUMI: I'm coming.
Tumi!
TUMI:
Okay. Alright alright I'm ready.
-Let's go.
-Do you have the keys?
-TUMI: Don't you have the keys?
-Oh, my God!
We're going to be so late!
I found them.
[glass shatters]
Sorry, ma'am.
Let's just get
out of here, please.
Money maker!
[both laughs]
It's all because of you.
...at the right time.
Otherwise, they'll be weak.
It wasn't that powerful.
-KAT: Blessing.
-Yes, ma'am?
I need you to come in
and pull the curtains.
Yes, ma'am.
JUNIOR:
Yeah.
BLESSING:
Make sure that they're even.
[]
-Ma'am?
-Hm?
For you.
A remedy.
It'll help.
With what?
Your friend, the one who died.
Thanks.
[]
[humming]
GEORGE:
Sir?
[indistinct chatter]
Seventy-five percent.
GEORGE:
No! [snaps finger]
Tumi!
Sorry, I um...
[phone rings]
[distorted sounds]
[]
It's probably in the wash,
just try something else.
No. No.
-Bongi bought it for me.
-Well it's not here.
Obviously.
Can you just ask Blessing
to check in the wash
It's a purple blouse
with the buttons here. Please.
[]
I'm done with her, Tumi.
She freaks me out.
She's into all those rituals
and stuff.
TUMI:
So were you Once Upon a time.
All the ingredients,
the recipes.
No one knew them
better than you.
KAT:
Not by choice!
[]
TUMI:
I'll talk to her tomorrow, okay?
[]
What?
-[chuckles]
-Not tonight.
JUNIOR:
Blessing.
Blessing.
[speaks Zulu]
She closed the door.
[sighs]
TUMI:
Blessing...
Sir!
TUMI:
Um...
As you know, your trial period
has come to an end.
Sir...
-I found the shirt.
-Sorry?
The purple blouse,
it was in
the washing machine, sir.
I found it.
Oh, great.
Kat will be pleased.
[smack lips] Um...
You've done a great job so far.
But...
It's just not gonna workout.
We'll pay you for the rest
of the month, in full.
Um...
but if you find
something sooner,
you're welcome to leave.
And, um...
you should probably
start on that.
Um...
we're gonna need you to um...
find another place to stay.
We'll give you
an extra week of course,
to get your stuff in order
rent free, of course.
[]
TUMI:
Okay.
The sooner she's out of here,
the better.
Well then I'm getting
a maid service,
I don't care how much it costs.
I'm not scrubbing
any more toilets.
KAT:
Works for me.
I just don't want anymore
of her weird spiritual stuff
in the house.
It's... dirty...
[]
TUMI:
Babe!
Have you seen
my toothbrush here?
It's funny what's gone missing
since Blessing
came into our lives.
[huffs]
[]
[]
[mysterious whispers]
[breathes heavily]
[Tumi spits]
[door opens]
[door closes]
Oh...
Blessing, you're still here.
BLESSING:
I just want to say thank you.
For what?
BLESSING:
For giving me a second chance.
I promise, I'll do better.
Excuse me?
BLESSING:
Tumi told me the good news.
You're extending my contract.
[]
KAT:
You said she could stay?
You extended her contract.
Tumi!
Blessing is a good worker.
How could you do this
without me?
I... I thought we were
on the same page!
[scoffs]
She's already signed it.
Wow.
For six more months?
Three written warnings
before dismissal?
We can't fire her without cause.
You definitely
made sure of that.
Are you sleeping with her?
What-- what,
is she blackmailing you?
-Kat.
-KAT: Make me understand.
We agreed to let her go!
She deserves another chance.
[grunts]
[]
[Tsepho sighs, clears throat]
TSHEPO:
No.
No drugs in her system.
They just said
it was a freak muscle spasm.
Her throat tightened
and locked up.
But...
doesn't make any sense.
I wish I could talk to her
more than anything right now.
What else?
What's going on?
It's Blessing.
Your domestic?
I wanted to get rid of her
and Tumi told her
she could stay.
We had such a huge fight
about it.
TSHEPO:
What's the problem?
It just feels like...
it just doesn't feel
like my space anymore.
It's like she's infected it.
TSHEPO:
I mean, you know,
it's a new person in your home.
It's gonna be an adjustment.
Maybe you just need
to get used to her.
Maybe.
[doorbell rings]
DETECTIVE MOSS:
My name is Detective Moss.
I'm with the SAPD.
[door opens]
According to records,
your previous maid
Martha Nkanya,
she passed away
from heart failure.
Is that correct?
Coffee for you, sir.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
BLESSING:
My pleasure.
I'm-- I'm really sorry
for your loss.
I'm actually here
regarding Martha's daughter...
Blessing.
I'm just gonna come out
and say it.
Blessing Nkanya
was found murdered,
but we think
it's related to muti killings,
given the brutal state
of the body.
It's-- it's an ongoing issue.
Muti killings?
Yeah, ritual murder.
The victim's body parts
are removed
while they're still alive...
and then used medicinally
for all sorts of things.
It's believed that
the victim's suffering
enhances the muti' strength.
It's ugly stuff.
When last did you and your wife
had any contact with Blessing?
-That's enough.
-DETECTIVE MOSS: Excuse me?
[]
Don't worry about the mess,
I'll clean it up.
[water splashing]
[door opens]
[water splashing]
What happened?
BLESSING:
Accident.
Accident?
Tumi spilt his coffee.
Is that so?
Where is Tumi?
-BLESSING: He's out.
-KAT: Out where?
I don't know.
KAT:
Blessing?
Ma'am?
Tumi doesn't drink coffee.
Maybe it was tea.
[]
[ominous music, chanting]
[rhythmic banging]
[ominous music, chanting]
[cell phone chimes]
ONSCREEN TEXCall me. Please call me back.
Urgent. We need to talk.
ONSCREEN TEXHow can we fix this?
Mom?
[mysterious rattling]
TUMI OVER VOICEMAIL:
Hey, this is Tumi.
You know what to do.
[]
What are you doing? Huh?
What's-- what's wrong?
What's going on?
BLESSING:
Ma'am?
Is he feeling okay?
I heard noises.
It's just. I don't...
Let's just get him
inside, please.
BLESSING:
Yes ma'am.
Why are you so dirty?
He looks tired
Drink.
[coughs]
BLESSING:
Drink it all, yes.
[Tumi slurping]
BLESSING:
Ma'am he needs to rest.
Yeah, I'll get him to bed.
[]
[mysterious rattling]
[]
[distorted screeches]
-I slept very well last night.
-Oh, wonderful!
Good morning, Miss!
KAT:
How are you feeling?
TUMI:
Better.
I had some weird dreams
last night. Sure.
You woke up late this morning.
Are you not going
to be late for work?
You don't think we should
take you to a doctor?
Do you remember
what you did yesterday?
TUMI:
The usual,
nothing out of the ordinary.
Ma'am, I made you something
to drink.
[stutters]
How much do you remember?
Do you at least remember
what we spoke about?
Why are you questioning me?
BLESSING:
It's my own recipe,
it'll help you feel better.
KAT:
Because you haven't been
yourself lately.
[Tumi] I'm fine!
Thanks to this lovely lady
right here.
[Blessing laughs]
BLESSING:
Are you sure
you don't want your tea?
I don't want your damn tea!
BLESSING:
Sure?
TUMI:
Hey, what's going on with you?
With me? [scoffs]
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
Babe, come here.
[groans]
It's Blessing...
she needs to go.
Aw. She's not that bad,
you'll see.
I called my mother.
She'll be here tomorrow.
You were the one pushing for me
to reach out to her.
I'll tell Blessing
to make up the extra room.
[]
[]
[whisperings]
[panting]
[]
[Kat breathing heavily]
[shrieks]
[breathing heavily]
[groans]
[breathing heavily]
[]
[keys jingling]
[]
[doorbell rings]
[car door closes]
[sighs]
[]
TUMI:
It's so good to see you Thando,
you're looking healthy.
[laughs]
[clears throat]
We like her very much.
[soft chuckle]
[]
Hmm, she's part of the family.
[Tumi munching]
Tumi is just finishing up
some work in the study.
Call it what you want, Ma.
It's just--
it's worse than ever.
It's like my pills
have just stopped working.
[sighs]
[breathes heavily]
[chanting]
[chanting continues]
[chanting continues]
[pants]
[gasps]
[breathing heavily]
[moaning]
[both moans, grunts]
THANDO:
[speaking Zulu]
[breathes heavily]
[]
[panting]
[chicken clacking]
[chanting]
[pants, sobs]
[rattling sound]
[groans]
She knew I rejected my calling.
And she knew the moment we met?
[grunts]
No...
No, I didn't know.
But you took it out of me.
[grunts]
[panting]
By almost killing
your own daughter.
[grunts]
[speaks Zulu]
[]
[chanting]
I'm still taking them.
What?
Hang on.
It doesn't make sense.
[]
[Thando chanting]
[chanting continues]
[breathing heavily]
[moaning]
[]
[chanting in Zulu]
[chanting in Zulu]
KAT:
Tumi hasn't been himself lately.
[chanting]
[chanting]
[grunts]
[chanting]
[chanting, clapping]
[]
THANDO:
[chanting in Zulu]
What are you looking for?
[chanting]
KAT:
That's my bra!
[rattling sound]
[]
Blessing.
[screams, pants]
[banging]
Kat!
[]
Tumi!
Kat!
[screams]
[Junior breathes heavily]
[panting]
[speaks Zulu]
[panting]
[Junior moans]
[screams in pain]
[Junior moans]
[mumbled scream]
Katlego!
[]
[]
KAT:
[speaks indistinctly]
Hmm?
[chuckles]
[screams]
[Kat cries]
Mama!
[cries]
So much potential
inside of you.
Each piece of you.
I just wanted to help you,
but you mocked me.
You refused.
So now...
I'm just going to help myself.
[Kat moans]
[chanting]
[]
[]
Tumi, hold her down.
[whispers in Zulu]
[Kat moans, screams]
[Kat screams]
-[click]
-[mysterious whispers]
[Tumi groans]
TUMI:
Katlego.
-[screams]
-[Blessing moans]
[Blessing moans]
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
[]
What are you gonna do?
[]
[Kat chants]
You don't deserve any of it.
But it's a thing
I intend on changing...
[Blessing screams]
[Kat chants]
[Blessing screaming]
[]
[growling]
[whisperings]
[]
[blood splattering]
[]
[bones rattling]
KAT:
Our culture believes that life
does not end with death,
but continues in another realm
inhabited by Amadlozi.
It is said Amadlozi reach out
to a select group of people
offering them
special abilities.
These people are called
by Amadlozi
to accept these gifts,
and live as a Sangoma.
Helping and healing
those in need.
When I was a child,
I was afraid of my gift.
I thought
I wanted a different life
from my calling.
But it is said,
you cannot reject ubizo
for you are called upon
for a reason.
How can I help?
[clapping]
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