SALOUM (2022)

 

Written & Directed By: Jean Luc Herbulot Story By: Jean Luc Herbulot & Pamela Diop Cinematography: Gregory Corandi  Editor: Nicolas Desmaison, Alasdair McCulloch and Sebastien Prangere 

Cast: Yann Gael, Evelyn lly Juhen, Roger Sallah, Mentor Ba, Bruno Henry, Marielle Salmier, Bobacer Oualy, Ndiaga Mbow, Renaud Farah, Cannabasse 

In 2003, a trio of mercenaries escaping a coup in Guinea-Bissau take refuge in a hidden region on the Saloum river of Senegal. But something from beyond the grave awaits them there.

The film starts off stark already and gets more captivating as it goes along. As more is revealed. As at first it seems more political and then seems to be a story of criminals on the run.

At first, it seems like a crime story with political aspirations. That becomes a revenge tale after a crime story in the first half. The second half has the characters more or less facing their personal demons. 

The film is many things and touches on quite a few genres, but mainly sticks to African folklore by the third act.

This is one of those films that is continuously inventive with beautiful imagery and stylish and downright cool to a certain extent.

It is even a ghost story of sorts that involves mercenaries, rebellion, and some philosophy. Either way, it leaves the film soulful and haunted. 

Most of the excitement of the Film is in the discovery’s definitely best to go In with as little knowledge as possible. Just enjoy the ride and take notice of the beauty and style. 

GRADE: B+