'Soos Pynappel op Pizza' proves that opposites do attract in this charming rom-com

Rom-com lovers, gather around.

"Soos Pynappel op Pizza" is serving up a classic case of opposites attracting, wrapped in the awkwardness, charm and the mild chaos we expect from the genre.

This Afrikaans-English hybrid local film follows Waldo and Becca, two chefs who couldn’t be more different - or more disinterested in each other - until fate (and a hilariously bizarre singles retreat) intervenes.

Leading the charge is the South African Film and Television Award (Safta)-winning comedian-turned-actor Schalk Bezuidenhout.

Renowned for his offbeat humour and signature moustache, Bezuidenhout has been flexing his acting chops in recent years. If you’ve seen "Kanarie," "Hotel," or "Taktiek," you will be familiar with his work.

In this film, he stars as Waldo, a talented but stubborn chef who seems more comfortable bickering than bonding. 

Starring opposite him is Kate Pinchuck, an absolute gem on the local comedy scene. If you caught her Safta-nominated performance as Taryn in "Tali’s Baby Diary," or have seen her live in action, you’ll already be familiar with her quick wit.

She plays Becca, Waldo’s equally single, equally culinary-obsessed counterpart. She's a smart and sassy woman who knows exactly what she wants, even if it means undressing you with her eyes before deciding whether you're worth her time. She’s confident, sharp-tongued and she has a presence that commands attention.

And together, they create a chemistry that’s as frustrating as it is endearing. Think flour fights in the kitchen, sarcastic jabs over burnt soufflés and enough tension to make the viewers yell: "Just kiss already!"

At the heart of the film is the absurd yet somehow relatable premise of a singles retreat. You know the type—think self-proclaimed love gurus, awkward icebreakers and activities designed to ‘heal’ your emotional baggage.

The retreat is hilariously over-the-top, with leaders who embody every wellness stereotype imaginable. From chanting affirmations to "embracing the unknown," it’s exactly what you’d picture - and that’s what makes it funny.

Becca and Waldo’s loved ones are convinced these two need a push (or a shove) toward romance, hence their forced attendance at this getaway. It doesn’t take long before the inevitable happens - one weird encounter after another forces them into each other’s orbits and suddenly, their bickering starts to feel less like hostility and more like something else entirely.

The film does a great job of tapping into modern dating culture, tackling topics like "body counts," heartbreak and even masturbation - subjects that might have once been taboo to tackle but are now just part of casual conversation. There’s something refreshingly honest about the way it presents these themes, without making it feel like a forced "edgy" moment.

However, while "Soos Pynappel op Pizza" deserves credit for weaving in these themes, there were moments that could have pushed the comedy even further. Some scenes felt like they needed an extra punchline or a sharper comedic payoff, especially considering the talent involved.

That said, the film still delivers on charm. The setting, filmed at Silvermist Wine Estate, feels familiar in the best way—rustic, warm and the kind of place you’d actually imagine a wellness retreat taking place. It’s always refreshing to see local films embrace authentic South African elements, from the scenery to the language mix. 

Beyond the leads, the film boasts a stellar supporting cast. Silwerskerm winners Rolanda Marais and Edwin van der Walt bring solid performances, while Safta nominee Keenan Arrison and "Spinners" star Braeden Buys round out the ensemble. Each of these actors adds their own flair to the mix, making the retreat’s attendees feel like the perfect blend of eccentric, desperate, and downright hilarious.

The film is written and directed by rising talent Morné Strydom ("Twintig Tone In ‘n Hangkas"), who clearly understands the rom-com formula but isn’t afraid to add a local spin.

What sets "Soos Pynappel op Pizza" apart from other rom-coms is its proudly South African flavour. It doesn’t try to be a cookie-cutter Hollywood love story. Instead, it embraces its local quirks, language and humour. The mix of Afrikaans and English feels natural rather than forced, making it all the more relatable for the audience. 

That said, if you’re looking for something wildly unpredictable, this might not be it. The storyline sticks fairly close to the traditional rom-com structure, which means you’ll probably guess how it ends within the first 20 minutes. But let’s be real—sometimes, that’s exactly what you want. It’s like comfort food; familiar, satisfying, and just the right amount of cheesy.

"Soos Pynappel op Pizza" is an entertaining and heartwarming addition to the South African rom-com scene. While it could have leaned a little harder into the comedy, the undeniable chemistry between Bezuidenhout and Pinchuck, plus the film’s charming setting and relatable themes, make it a worthwhile watch.

It’s a story about letting go, embracing the unexpected, and, of course, finding love in the last place you’d expect—because, much like pineapple on pizza, sometimes the strangest combinations turn out to be the best.

If you’re in the mood for a feel-good, proudly South African rom-com with an endearing cast and a quirky setting, this one’s for you. Just don’t expect it to be too spicy—this isn’t your raunchy, laugh-out-loud kind of flick, but rather a warm, slightly awkward, and ultimately sweet love story. 

*** solid and enjoyable, though not groundbreaking.

"Soos Pynappel op Pizza" is now streaming on Showmax.