Here is a film that IMDb doesn't know. In some time I have been interested in Films from Africa. I know there is much to find, but where? Distribution is a major issue, another availability. I am really thankful that the service Festival Scope has made several films from Africa available for online viewing. Of course, not all of these films are masterworks, but many are worth a watch. Without a record in IMDb, however, we cannot know that they exist at all. Also the two film makers are not known to IMDb.
Mali - undefined time. A hunter has been married for ten years, but they haven't had children yet. The wife suggests that he takes a second wife. When he does so and when she gives birth to a boy, the inevitable quarrel between the two wives start. The humiliated first wife goes away and comes to the realm of the King of Barkomo. In his realm nature has taken revenge for a not permitted human sacrifice. Nature may be reconciled when certain conditions are fulfilled.
The exiled wife of the hunter is to her big surprise pregnant. The king of Barkomo takes her as his second wife and it shows that her son is the one that can reconcile the nature.
Many years later has this boy a conflict with the son of the king's first wife.
Barkomo tells the founding myth of the Dogon culture. The film shows and tells and doesn't necessarily explain. Impressive pictures are supported by a suggestive score. The editing is superb The acting is not first-class. Most actors seems to recite their lines in an unnatural manner. Still this is a fascinating look into a generally not much known culture.
8/10
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