Movie Review – “Black Girl” by Ousmane Sembne

Based on what you are reading and learning, please discuss (in one to three pages) three scenes in “Black Girl” where the filmmaker makes reference to French colonialism in Senegal, aspects of traditional life and music, and the modernization of Africa.

Pay particular attention to the use of the mask throughout the movie, as the use of sacred masks in traditional villages, worn by priests and others with religious authority, helps to enforce the law among the locals; the spirits and God are always around making sure you do what is right. (10 pts.)

The Movie link:

****WARNING Sensitive Content****

Ousmane Sembne is considered to be the father of African cinema. He initiated a movement in film where the Griot tradition of storytelling was conveyed through images, since a lot of people in Africa could still not read in the middle of the Twentieth-Century. “Black Girl” (1966) was made with limited resources just a few years after Senegal’s independence, but was banned in France because of its political nature. In the film, Madame and Monsieur are French officials forced to move back to France during Senegal’s Independence movement, hoping the colonial system will be re-established. How does that affect their social status and family life? Why does Diouana feel she has been lied to? Please be warned that there is a death scene that may shock you. It is a surprising development in the movie that also requires interpretation from the viewer. Please use the information from the class (readings and other resources) to describe your thoughtful interpretation.