Xala
Dir: Ousmane Sembene
1975
****
Xala, or The Curse (in this instance, the curse of erectile dysfunction no less) is a very dry and witty film. It takes place when Senegal gained independence from France and shows how the naive, unprepared and down-right unsuitable the people who took over the country were. They are portrayed here as intelligent businessmen, neatly groomed, suited and booted, wealthy and successful but still heaped with traditions and superstitious beliefs. The contrast and how quickly the country progressed (for want of a better word) is handled brilliantly by Ousmane Sembene who heaps the satire on by the bucket-load. It's funny, quite deadpan and very intelligent. It's quite shocking really too when you see some of the ancient traditions in contrast with modern living. The end scene is quite poignant and is great satire but is a bit grim, and I have to say it turned my stomach a bit so be warned.