Makongo (2020). Documentary, Central African Republic (72 min.). Directed by Elvis Sabin Ngaibino. In Sango, Aka and French with English Subtitles.
See the film from anywhere in the world, at any convenient time. There are no set screenings. Link to access will become available here. Access is free.
In Sabin’s assured observational debut, André and Albert, two teenage Central African Aka Pygmies must traverse the thick, fascinating forest between their isolated, discriminated community and their school. It´s a daily challenge: “They stigmatise me, but I’ve still always pushed forwards.” Their pride and love of learning leads them to find resourceful ways to volunteer teach other Aka kids without any schooling in their forest camps. The kids of all ages are thrilled by this opportunity. They hope the upcoming Makongo (caterpillar) harvest will provide economic resources to further their cause. When the time comes, the two friends undertake a long journey to sell the highly sought-after caterpillars in Bangui, the capital, where they endure mistreatment, but they persevere.
International Award Winner, Cinéma du Réel Festival (France)
“The film tackles universal themes with finesse and complexity.” Cinéma du Réel Jury
“An immersive and moving documentary on an unshakeable desire for education against all odds amidst an outsider community.” Cineuropa
Director Elvis Sabin Ngaibino was born in 1985 in Bangui (Central African Republic). He’s trained in fiction writing and in film, and has also studied biology and geology. In 2012 he was nominated President of the Academy Association of Central African Filmmakers. In 2017 he attended the documentary filmmaking workshop of Ateliers Varan (Alliance Française of Bangui), which led to his debut film “Makongo” (2020), selected for the 7th Final Cut in Venice Workshop.
Cinematic Spaces of Education Festivalette
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