Senegalese film ‘Xalé’ lights up Nairobi on International Women’s Month

‘Xalé,’ Absa’s newest masterpiece, which proudly represented Senegal on the 2023 Oscars, is about to captivate audiences at Unseen Nairobi with its poignant narrative and breathtaking storytelling.

The movie unfolds the touching story of Awa, a vibrant 15-year-old schoolgirl, who navigates her teenage years alongside her twin brother Adama, harbouring goals of Europe.

The dying of their grandmother brings a few promise from her aunt Fatou and uncle Atoumane to marry, a union aimed toward preserving the household bond.

Nonetheless, the shortage of affection between Fatou and Atoumane results in irreversible penalties, weaving a story that’s each heart-wrenching and deeply transferring.

‘Xalé’ guarantees an unforgettable cinema expertise at Unseen Nairobi from March 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, and 29-31, marking a must-attend occasion for cinema fanatics.

Moussa Sène Absa’s journey in cinema started as a screenwriter with the movie ‘Les enfants de Dieu.’ His debut brief, ‘Le prix du mensonge,’ garnered the Silver Tanit at Carthage in 1988, setting the stage for a profession marked by vital acclaim and worldwide recognition.

In 1991, he directed ‘Ken Bugul,’ adopted by ‘Ça twiste à Popenguine’ in 1992, which earned him widespread acclaim.

His movie ‘Tableau Ferraille’ received Greatest Picture at FESPACO 1997, initiating his trilogy on ladies, continued with ‘Madame Brouette’ (Silver Bear, Berlinale 2002) and culminating in ‘Xalé’ (2022).

His current works, ‘Teranga Blues’ and ‘Yoole,’ had been chosen for competitors at FESPACO in 2007 and 2013, respectively.