South Africa is an extremely diverse country, often people cross their ethnic line to date or marry people from different cultures, religions, and ethnicities. However, the country is still fairly conservative, so being with someone with that much difference in identity comes with insecurities, fears, as well as an outside world that may not accept said relationship.

Emtakweni uses the elements of horror to explore and illustrate the fears of commitment that usually arise in these relationships. Sihle’s haunting is indicative of his inability to let go of societal constraints and be with Lelo to the best of his ability.