Mali / Burkina Faso / France / West Germany / Japan,
1987, 105 min
Directed by:
Souleymane CisséCinematography:
Jean-Michel HumeauCast:
Issiaka Kane, Aoua Sangare, Niamanto Sanogo, Balla Moussa Keita, Soumba Traore, Ismaila Sarr, Youssouf Tenin Cissé, Koke SangarePlots(1)
Set in the powerful Mali Empire of the 13th century, Yeelen follows the journey of Nianankoro, a young warrior who must battle the powerful Komo cult. Nianankoro's greatest enemy is his own father, a dangerous and corrupt wizard who uses his dark magic to try and destroy his son. Traveling over the arid Bambara, Fulani and Dogan lands of ancient West Africa, Nianankoro eventually comes face to face with his father in a final fatal showdown. (official distributor synopsis)
(more)Awards
- Winner
- Nominations
Independent Spirit Awards
- 1989 - Souleymane Cissé (Best International Film)
Cannes Film Festival
- 1987 - Souleymane Cissé (Jury Prize)
- 1987 - Souleymane Cissé (Golden Palm - Official Competition)