Exploring Black on Black Racism

Wednesday 16th May at 9pm

Written by Bassek Ba Kobhio, Marcel Beaulieu and Didier Ouenangare

Directed by Bassek Ba Kobhio and Didier Ouenangare

Starring Eriq Ebouaney, Nadege Beausson-Diagne, Sonia Zembourou, Philippe Maury, and the Pygmies of the village Koungou

This exquisitely photographed film – the first to come from the Central African Republic – explores the relationship between a group of Pygmies in the village of Koungou, and the idealistic young Gonaba, a French-educated African who has returned home with the belief that he can use his experiences in Europe to aid his fellow citizens.

It is forty years since political independence has been won in his country, yet Gonaba – appointed Inspector of Schools in Bangui – finds himself frustrated with the racism of his elite, government colleagues and their cruel treatment of the Pygmies. Gonaba sets out to try to ‘liberate’ the Pygmies by teaching them literacy, but discovers that he is the one who has the most to learn – abandoning his city life and a budding love affair with a beautiful woman, he completely immerses himself in village life, in the heart of the dense equatorial forest, and must face both uplifting and severe consequences.

Delving into the nuances of black on black racism in postcolonial Africa, this film makes both fascinating drama and insightful contemporary commentary.

“An admirable result for the first ever film from its country…”  Screen Daily.com

“This beautifully made pic is a powerful African production, a fascinating excursion into a little-seen world. The film develops into an unusual journey of discovery. Impeccably made, with a high level of technical expertise.”  Variety  

“This is a brave, dramatic film, relying on convincing performances from actual pygmies… Beautifully composed, the strength of this film is in its authenticity to place and the glimpse it provides into a hidden world.”  Planet Africa 

Wednesday 16th May at 9pm