Congo Boy
In this hopeful drama, a Congolese boy dreams of becoming a rapper, but spends his days looking after his younger siblings while their parents are in prison.
Told from the perspective of a young person, Congo Boy portrays the teenager, Robert, a refugee from Congo, living in the Central African Republic. The thought of a career in rap music excites him but in its way are numerous obstacles. Despite his age, he has been driven to care for his younger sisters because his parents are in jail. Furthermore, life is heavily affected by a civil war, and studies must be maintained, too. His musical talents may yet provide a solution to his difficulties.
The ongoing civil war colours both the dialogue and settings of the scenes. All of this is achieved very casually, and the war isn’t necessarily in focus. What is more important is Robert’s everyday life around all of these events. Bradley Fiomona Dembeasset’s performance fits the style well, and the background gloom doesn’t dominate the work. Rather, mundane life continues on despite societal tensions.
Director Rafiki Fariala balances different elements delicately. The diverse elements of Congo Boy stay composed, and the depiction of the young protagonist’s life stays soft until the end. Life can be hopeful despite its circumstances. Most important are the things that bring joy. To Robert, it is music.
Juho Lipponen (translated by Tara Tuchyner)
Screenings
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Gilda 1Sun 20.9. at 20.30–22.0090 min, 1/3
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VuotaloTue 22.9. at 18.00–19.3090 min, 2/3
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Kinopalatsi 7Sat 26.9. at 16.15–17.4590 min, 3/3