Africa Day commemorates the formation of the Organisation of African Union (OAU), now known as the African Union (AU) in May 25, 1963. The OAU was instrumental in the fight for independence and dismantling of oppressive systems like apartheid. Africa is a day to celebrate African film, art, music and culture, as well as reflect on the progress and unique challenges facing African countries today. Here are some great movies and documentaries to watch on Africa Day and celebrate African history and creativity.
African Movies
Dhalinyaro
Dhalinyaro is an amazing piece of work by Djiboutian director Lula Ali Ismaïl. The movie follows three young women coming of age in Djibouti. If you are looking for a movie that shows beautifully rendered day to day living of Africans without the usual heavy tropes, this is a ovie for you. it is available on Amazon Prime. Check out the Afrinado review here: Dhalinyaro
Atlantics
Atlantics is one of those movies that stays with you, cleverly weaved, it also places young African women at it’s center while exploing themes such as immigration and young love. Hauntingly beautiful, the movie by Senegalese female director Mati Diop is currently available on Netflix.
Kati Kati
African Documentaries
Another cerebral and thought provoking film. Kati Kati rises the questions of life after death through the main character Kaleche’s eyes. Directed by Mbithi Masya, the Kenyan film is available for streaming on Showmax. Read the Afrinad review: Kati Kati
Lumumba: Death of a Prophet
An in depth look at Patrice Lumumba and the struggles that shaped a nation. It is easy to look at Congo and bemoan it’s current state but the documentary implicitly shows how western powers create problems in African countries for their own benefit. Read: Lumumba Documentary Review
Softie the film
Every election year, Kenyans line up and vote for change yet real change remains a far off dream. Boniface Mwangi’s story as an activist running for office will open your eyes to just how difficult the whole process is and why we end up with leaders who only care about their stomach’s. Read a review: https://theafrinado.com/softie-the-film-review-theafrinado/