After the Long Rains (BAADA YA MASIKA)
Country: Kenya
Language: Swahili w/ English subtitles
Live Action | 2023 | 91 mins
Recommended for ages 10+ (Parental Guidance: Ages 10+ Subtitles, inebriation, challenging cultural family dynamics))
After the Long Rains is an exquisite coming-of-age story about Aisha (Electricer Kache Hamisi), a ten year-old girl who dreams of becoming an actress. In Watamu, a beautiful coastal town in Kenya, children are expected to follow in the footsteps of their parents, but Aisha wants something different for herself and dreams of moving to Europe to become an actress. Through her imaginative spirit and charm she convinces Hassan, a local fisherman, to teach her how to navigate the waters so she can one day, sail away to fulfil her dreams. Then a homework assignment sets her off on an adventure of self-discovery. In this intimate and formally freehand portrayal, we are introduced to the colorful and saturated world of Aisha, her beautiful family and a tight-knit community where neighbours, teachers and the local fisherman function as extended family members.