With “Mami Wata”director C.J. “Fiery” Obasi presents a striking exploration of tradition versus modernity within a fictional West African village. The film’s distinctiveness lies in its expert utilization of black as a canvas to illustrate a pulsating narrative. Set in the village of Iyi, the story revolves around the spiritual authority of Mami Wata, embodied by Mama Efe (Rita Edochie), amidst brewing ideological tensions.
Generational conflict ignites as Zinwe (Uzoamaka Aniunoh), Mama Efe’s daughter, questions her mother’s adherence to rituals and their relevance. This friction sets the tone for a broader discourse on intergenerational anxiety and the clash between established customs and encroaching modern influences.
The film gains momentum with the introduction of Jasper (Emeka Amakeze), an enigmatic character who washes up on the village shore. As unrest simmers, the tensions culminate in a rebel group challenging Mama Efe’s leadership, leading to betrayals and unforeseen alliances. The narrative’s structure, presented in chapters, evolves from an observational start to a gripping thriller, amplifying the stakes and conflicts.
Obasi’s masterful direction is complemented by Lílis Soares’ cinematography, which capitalizes on the interplay between black and white, capturing the mercurial essence of the water deity. The shades between the two colors evoke the film’s central theme of complexity in cultural dynamics and belief systems. Notably, the charcoal night sky and obsidian forest serve as metaphors for the deity’s moods and the village’s identity crisis.
The film’s character dynamics are intriguingly multi-dimensional. The contrasting personalities of Zinwe and her adopted sister Prisca (Evelyne Ily Juhen) embody the complex roles women play in a matriarchal society. Juhen’s portrayal of Prisca, her free-spiritedness and sensuality, adds depth to the narrative.
Production design is excellent – costume design, makeup, and hairstyles. These elements, incorporating bold geometric patterns, merge seamlessly with the film’s visual tapestry, enhancing its artistic appeal. The artistic collaboration fosters a cohesive narrative that underscores the film’s overarching themes.
The film navigates postcolonial tensions, power struggles, and ideological conflicts with an innovative approach, pushing the boundaries of traditional narratives. It reimagines familiar stories in ways that spark new energy, akin to the work of Nigerian artist Toyin Ojih Odutolah.
Mami Wata’s exploration of tradition, modernity, and cultural shift, underscored by technical finesse and standout performances, challenges conventional norms and provokes fresh perspectives – and is one of the must-see movies of the year.
Mami Wata played at the Fantasia Film Festival.
Whitlock&Pope 