NOTE: Dr. Zélie Asava penned an in-depth analysis of the film last year for Akoroko, which you can read here.
Ellie Foumbi’s psychological drama “Our Father, the Devil” (“Mon père, le diable”) is an engaging tapestry of emotion, memory, and moral dilemmas set against the backdrop of the African diasporic experience in Europe. The film, which has garnered attention and acclaim, delves deep into the haunting past of its protagonist, Marie, a former child soldier, as she confronts memories of trauma in her new life in a sleepy mountain town in the south of France.
As audiences are taken on this poignant journey of revenge, forgiveness, identity, and belonging, they are offered a unique lens into the complexities of the human psyche and the challenges of forging one’s identity amidst past traumas and cultural differences.
As the film is being released by Fandor and Cineverse in select U.S. theaters, including the Quad in NYC on August 25, and the Laemmle Royal on September 1, here are eight compelling reasons why “Our Father, the Devil” is a must-watch.
- Exploration of Trauma and Memory: The film delves deep into the psychological aftermath of trauma. Marie’s memories are rekindled when she encounters the warlord, now a Catholic priest, in her new life. While the theme of trauma, especially related to war and conflict, is not unique to African cinemas, the continent’s history of colonialism, civil wars, and political upheavals makes it a recurring motif. Marie’s past as a child soldier and her confrontation with it in France adds depth to this theme.
- Moral Dilemmas of Revenge and Forgiveness: The narrative poses challenging questions about revenge and forgiveness. Marie is faced with the decision to either seek vengeance against the warlord who devastated her life or find the strength to forgive and heal.
- Diasporic Narratives in African Cinema: Many African filmmakers, either by choice or circumstance, find themselves outside their home countries, and their works often reflect the experiences of Africans abroad. Foumbi’s Cameroonian-American background and the film’s setting in southern France highlight the diasporic narratives increasingly prevalent in contemporary African cinema. These stories often depict the experiences of Africans living abroad, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges faced in foreign lands.
- Postcolonial Themes: African cinemas, since inception, have been deeply intertwined with postcolonial themes. Films often grapple with the legacies of colonialism, the clash of cultures, and the search for identity in a postcolonial world. “Our Father, the Devil” touches on these themes, especially when exploring the relationship between Marie and the warlord-turned-priest, a figure who embodies the intersections of African traditions and Western religious influences.
- Foumbi’s Directorial Prowess: Winner of 27 festival prizes and nominated for the 2023 Best Feature Independent Spirit Award, Foumbi’s directorial skills shine in this elegant moral thriller. It boasts riveting performances, especially from Babetida Sadjo as Marie and Souleymane Sy Savané as Father Patrick. At the script level, the “cat and mouse” dynamic of the plot keeps audiences engaged and invested.
- Cinematography and the Power of a Single Location: Foumbi fully exploits use of the film’s primarily single location, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity for filmmakers. In “Our Father, the Devil,” the decision amplifies the story’s intensity and focuses the audience’s attention on the characters and their emotional journeys. Additionally, the occasional juxtaposition of serene landscapes with the tumultuous inner world of the characters adds a layer of depth to the storytelling. It showcases how constraints can be turned into strengths, creating a cinematic experience that’s both visually captivating and emotionally resonant.
- A Testament to Human Resilience: “Our Father, the Devil” stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for healing and belonging amidst past traumas and cultural differences. It’s a rare opportunity to witness a narrative that delves deep into the experiences of Africans in Europe, from the perspective of Africans, shedding light on themes that are both universal and deeply personal.
- African Cinemas on the Global Stage: African filmmakers are increasingly gaining recognition on the global stage, with their works being showcased in international film festivals and winning accolades. “Our Father, the Devil” is part of this wave of African films that not only cater to a global audience but also challenge them with intricate narratives rooted in African experiences.
In conclusion, “Our Father, the Devil” is a compelling cinematic experience that offers a deep exploration of trauma, memory, revenge, forgiveness, identity, and belonging. Ellie Foumbi’s film is a must-watch for those seeking a profound and emotionally charged cinematic narrative experience.