XALÉ
US Premiere
WORLD
Senegal 2022, 101 min, Director: Moussa Sene Absa
Acclaimed Senegalese director Moussa Sene Absa (Madame Brouette, MVFF26) unites ancient and contemporary modes of storytelling in this visually stunning and emotionally resonant tale of familial love, loyalty, and diaspora. The drama centers on Awa, a 15-year-old student, and her twin brother (and confidante) Adamo, who dreams of a better life in Europe. When their beloved grandmother arranges for their Aunt Fatou to marry a relative whom Fatou detests, the results of this forced union bear consequences not only for the unhappy couple, but for the community — and, most gravely, for the twins. Sene Absa’s beautifully crafted film is as steeped in traditional African storytelling as it is rooted in contemporary Senegalese life. Among its many innovations is the appearance of two choruses of narrators: one male (les griots) and one female (les griottes). But at its heart, Xalé is young Awa’s story, brought to life with an amazing performance from newcomer Nguissaly Barry. —Bri’anna Moore
In Wolof with English subtitles
In person: director Moussa Sene Absa
PRESENTED WITH SUPPORT FROM
CONSULATE GENERAL OF FRANCE IN SAN FRANCISCO
