Robots

Robots (2026) is a documentary film directed by Yaseen J. Khan.

Set at Johannesburg’s traffic light intersections — locally known as “robots” — ROBOTS explores the spaces where inequality, identity, and survival collide. When the lights turn red and vehicles stop, another economy comes alive: dancers, jugglers, artists, hawkers, mimics, and performers seize their brief moment before the lights turn green again. At one such intersection, Gift — also known as “Marshmallows” — performs his striking “Headless Man” act. Behind the scenes, he juggles many roles: husband, father, brother, citizen, and survivor, balancing hope and uncertainty as he strives to make ends meet. As pressures mount, his life is poised to take an unexpected turn.

Cast

Gift 'Marshmallows' Hlahani

Lead character