What It’s About
The beautiful, contained Shula (Chardy) has recently returned to her family home in Zambia. Her readjustment is jarred by the unexpected passing of her Uncle Fred (Roy Chisa), particularly since she’s the one to discover the body. Her cousin, hard-partying Nsansa (Chisela), stands shoulder to shoulder with her, whether she likes it or not. As close friends and family assemble to mourn, various intrigues play out as shocking secrets about the patriarch and his brood are revealed.
Why We Love It
Writer/director Nyoni’s mesmerizing second feature reveals distinct Zambian rituals and customs around death, but what actually takes place among family (gossip, recriminations, traumas revisited, etc.) feels universal. The clan gathering often ventures into surreal territory, but we see everything through the central character of Shula (Charda), a steadying presence who’s seen more of the world than her relatives. Thanks to her, we experience all the intrigues and tumult from a safe remove. Charismatic newcomer Chardy is reason enough to catch this fascinating, off-the-wall family drama.