Mami Wata

Mami Wata" by C.J. "Fiery" Obasi is a cinematic masterpiece that effortlessly blends folklore, spirituality and culture to explore the complex dynamics of a fictional West African village, Iyi. The stunning visual presentation of the film, shot entirely in expressive black and white, serves as a captivating canvas for delving into the deep-seated ideological differences that emerge when the village faces generational tensions and the clash between tradition and modernity.

At the heart of the story is Mama Efe (Rita Edochie), the intermediary of the enigmatic water deity, Mami Wata, who occupies a vital position in the village. As the story unfolds, we see her daughter, Zinwe (Uzoamaka Aniunoh), questioning her mother's adherence to age-old rituals while struggling against the encroachment of modern influences. This exploration of female dynamics and authority in a matriarchal society is brilliantly contrasted by the characters of Zinwe and her adopted sister, Prisca (Evelyne Ily Juhen). Zinwe's rebellious nature and inner turmoil contrast sharply with Prisca's free spirit and sensuality, highlighting the many facets of women living under the influence of divinity.

The film's narrative is meticulously divided into chapters, each introduced by poetic title cards, providing a rhythmic flow that engages the audience throughout. Obasi's storytelling prowess shines when he effortlessly balances broader themes, such as intergenerational anxiety and the confrontation of traditional customs with ever-advancing modernity, with gripping action sequences and character development.

Cinematographer Lílis Soares deserves special recognition for her outstanding work, which earned her a Special Jury Prize at Sundance. The use of black-and-white images brilliantly enhances the film's otherworldly atmosphere, where water becomes a powerful visual metaphor for Mami Wata's mercurial moods and the turmoil within the village. The exploration of Mami Wata, the deity of water, adds depth and relevance to the film's themes, depicting her in various forms that reflect the diasporic cultures of her worshippers. It's a powerful critique of the quest for power and the corrupting influence of colonialism.

The performances of the talented cast are simply outstanding, with Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Evelyne Ily Juhen and Rita Edochie delivering emotionally resonant interpretations. Their interpretations make the characters' dilemmas and struggles understandable and compelling, drawing the audience into the heart of the narrative.

If Mami Wata sometimes suffers from pacing problems in the first half, the second half more than makes up for it, making this film a captivating cinematic experience. Obasi's ability to reframe familiar narratives in a fresh, energizing way consolidates him as one of Africa's most promising directors. Mami Wata is a profound and visually captivating work of art that leaves a lasting impression on its audience, testifying to the power of storytelling and the richness of African cinema.

Director Obasi offers an exciting and visually stunning experience that harmoniously fuses naturalistic storytelling with surreal fantasy and mythological symbolism. The film takes us on a spellbinding journey through the West African coastal village of Iyi, where Mama Efe's role as village matriarch and go-between to Mami Wata takes center stage.

As tensions emerge between Mama Efe's daughter Zinwe and the village's traditional beliefs, the arrival of rebel soldier Jasper disrupts harmony, introducing patriarchy and violence into the village. In the midst of these changes, Zinwe and Prisca emerge as symbols of positive transformation, attempting to strike a balance between respecting their village fables and embracing modern medicine to help a sick child.

The film's artistic achievements are further accentuated by Lílis Soares' exceptional cinematography, which captures striking compositions and textures that transform scenes into museum-worthy works of art. The use of black and white reinforces the film's eerie, dreamlike atmosphere, particularly during scenes by the ocean.

Although the film sometimes lacks pace, it remains a deep, sensory experience, masterfully exploring the clash between tradition and modernity. Obasi skilfully depicts the complexities of female authority, questioning the effects of colonization and the struggle between matriarchy and patriarchy.

The film is a testament to Obasi's talents as a skilled filmmaker with a strong vision. Its poetic narrative, haunting images and stimulating themes make it a must-see for cinephiles and festival-goers alike. Despite some minor pacing problems, Mami Wata is a captivating, mythical journey that brings ancient folklore to life while reflecting on the challenges of the present.

C.J. "Fiery" Obasi's "Mami Wata" is thus a cinematic gem that artfully explores the complexities of tradition, modernity, power and spirituality in the context of a West African village. The film's mesmerizing black-and-white images, outstanding performances and thematic depth make it a profound and visually captivating work of art that leaves a lasting impression on its audience. Obasi's narrative prowess, together with the outstanding work of the cinematographer and the talented cast, make Mami Wata a film not to be missed, and establish Obasi as one of Africa's most promising directors. Despite a few minor pacing problems, Mami Wata remains a spellbinding and stimulating cinematic experience that skilfully blends ancient folklore with contemporary relevance.

Mami Wata
Written and directed by C.J. "Fiery" Obasi
Produced by Oge Obasi
Cinematography : Lílis Soares
Starring Evelyne Ily Juhen, Uzoamaka Aniunoh , Kelechi Udegbe , Emeka Amakeze , Rita Edochie , Tough Bone , Jakob Kerstan 
Music by Tunde Jegede
Production companies : Fiery Film Company, Guguru Studios, Ifind Pictures, PalmWine Media
Distributed by CAA Media Finance, alief SAS, Dekanalog, Trigon-film
Release date : 23 January 2023 (Sundance)
Running time : 107 minutes

Viewed July 27, 2023 (press screener obtained at Fantasia festival)

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