Atlantique (2019) - ENG subs

Flora screens this modern classic as part of Salty Cinema in september.

In a suburb of Dakar, Senegal, the young love between Ada and Souleiman seems carefree. But behind the veil of romance lies a bleak future. Ada is about to marry another man, one she does not love. And Souleiman decides to leave the country across the ocean with a group of construction workers who have not been paid for months, in search of a better future. A few days after the boys’ departure, Ada’s wedding celebration is disrupted by a sudden fire, and the neighborhood girls are struck by a mysterious fever. Issa, a young police officer, begins an investigation.

Atlantique was the first film by a Black female director to be selected for the main competition at Cannes, and it was Senegal’s official submission to the Academy Awards.

“A sensational debut, confident and unique, in which Diop proves herself a formidable directorial talent.”
“Strong performances by the young cast.” – De Volkskrant ****