Sundancing with Kenyan Sci Fi

Unexpectedness happens when seemingly disparate ideas come together. Perceptions of who we are, how ideas are defined, and the labels under which things are identified can be called into question.

This is what I love about the intersection. When concepts, entities, or beliefs that typically don't occupy the same time and space come together, they can present us with a fresh perspective on what's possible.

This is what I love about the short film, Pumzi, by writer/director Wanuri Kahiu, which played at this year's Sundance film festival. It was brought to my attention (a few months back) by my good friend Ngozi Odita, founder of SHAE, when she saw a screening of it at this year's SXSW festival, and shared it with me.

This is what happens when you converge East Africa, science fiction and cinema. You get an atypical look at what a developing country is all about.

The film's setting is a dystopian future 35 years after water wars have torn the world apart. East African survivors of the ecological devastation remain locked away in contained communities, but a young woman in possession of a germinating seed struggles against the governing council to bring the plant to Earth’s ruined surface.

According to Wahuri the film, "started off as a small script about what kind of world we would have to be if we had to buy fresh air." Her creative process in itself is very interesting as she researched classic 1950s films to create her movie's futuristic sets, comparing the processes of matte painting and rear screen projection with indigenous African artwork.

Kahiu’s future plans include expanding Pumzi to feature length as well as nurturing her local film community.

“I would like to work and build an industry, so that everyone walks away well-paid, with great hours,” Kahiu said. “Just a humane society, of sorts.”

Well all I can say is; handle your business Wahuri. I'm pullin' for ya lady!

Comments

[alison claire]

Nice post, Sha'ir! Think this (i.e." seemingly disparate ideas coming together") is the same reason behind Janelle Monae's soaring popularity right now. Interesting that she also is incorporating Sci Fi elements into her art. Was JUST reading this interview where Monae talks about the inspiration behind her album (and accompanying graphic novel)'Metropolis: The Chase Suite'

http://www.bvnewswire.com/2009/06/19/janelle-monae-rocking-crowds-with-no-apologies/

[Rasul Sha'ir]

Ali, you're definitely on it with Janelle Monae. I've been a fan of science fiction since Star Wars and Star Trek. Sooo loved it when Outkast dropped their ATLiens album back in '96. That album is classic! I'm sure Janelle derived some inspiration from it. You can totally see her Big Boi and Andre 3000 influence in a lot of what she does with her style and music.