Africa in Pictures
A sneak peak behind the scenes of Nollywood
Commentary
Discussing cellphone filmmaking in Africa
Tutorial
Character development with Oladipo Agboluaje
White Wedding | Film by Jann Turner
Following in the footsteps of Tsotsi and District 9, White Wedding is another beautifully pictured film from the South African movie industry. Directed by Jann Turner, White Wedding is a light-hearted romantic comedy celebrating South Africa’s rich heritage and diversity.
Debutant feature filmmaker Turner succeeds in using wit to cleverly address issues of identity and race in stereotypes many dared not. White Wedding is a film about a Groom’s road trip across South Africa to pick up his Best man, and the challenges they encounter trying to arrive in time for wedding.
The chemistry between Rapulana Seiphemo (Jeruselema) and Kenneth Nkosi, two of South Africa’s leading and most charismatic actors – shines bright and brings this film to life. White Wedding is a joy to watch and might just be in contention for an Oscar nomination.
Arugba | Film by Tunde Kelani
Arugba meaning the ‘carrier’ is a fictional story of a corrupt and turbulent society seeking cleansing and rebirth, a new direction inspired by its king - who is most untrusting of his closest aids and people. To achieve this cleansing and rebirth, a customary rite of sacrifice must be made by a virgin - who must carry the sacrificial calabash to the river at the year’s Osun Osogbo festival.
While succeeding in displaying a fest of dance, color, Yoruba oratory and tradition, this film was less successful as a coherent story. Sub plots featuring the Arugba and a young dancer intent on winning her heart, as well as a plethora of issues affecting modern Nigeria - which was thrust into the film perhaps later on, made for a very fragmented and frustrating experience.
Directed by Tunde Kelani, Arugba remains a very entertaining and funny film from a very gifted director, and is one to watch despite its fallings.
District 9 | Film by Neill Blomkamp
District 9 is a beautifully shot sci-fi drama by the South African born director, Neill Blomkamp. Filmed in the shantytowns of Johannesburg, it is an analogy of the South African apartheid system – highlighting the evil men can do.
A contender for film of the year, District 9 is a fantastic piece of story telling, full of action, suspense, humour and great performance. Blomkamp succeeded most in his use of handled camera technique to create a sense of realism, a success rivaled only by the film Saving Private Ryan.
Whist succeeding in creating a masterpiece in low budget sci-fi drama, Blomkamp is less successful and mostly crude in his handling of race representation, a failing that could sour what was in-fact a very interesting film, successful in its box office takings. District 9 is definitely a film to watch, but you might not find it funny if the jokes are on you.
From a Whisper | Film by Wanuri Kahiu
From a Whisper is a personal and refreshing account of the effects of the 1998 terrorist bombing of the US embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. The film follows a rebellious, young Muslim girl – Tamani – who struggles to come to terms with the loss of her mother during the bomb blast.
From a Whisper captures a truth never really understood by those unaffected directly by the 1998 event. With gripping soundtrack, great acting and creative use of cinematography, From a Whisper remains intriguing and captivating in equal measure.
The film also beautifully honours the story of those who lost their lives and/or livelihood in the 1998 terrorist attack. Winner of 5 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for best director, best picture, best screenplay, best original soundtrack and editing, From a Whisper, is a must see.
