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The Choice

Name: The Choice
Director: Idrissa Ouedraogo
Released: 1987
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

1987

Director

Idrissa Ouedraogo

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film is a powerful example of post-colonial storytelling that challenges global cinematic norms. By focusing on a West African perspective, it avoids the outsider's viewpoint and offers a deep critique of global economic structures. While the film excels in racial authenticity and cultural depth, it lacks representation of LGBTQ+ and disability issues. The narrative centers on the socio-economic pressures faced by the village of Gourga. Ultimately, the film succeeds by breaking down the 'modernity versus tradition' cliché, emphasizing the moral dilemmas faced by communal societies due to external pressures.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Choice have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It focuses on the socio-economic survival of the village, without any queer-coded subtext.

How does The Choice portray gender?

Fair

The movie explores the complexities of domestic life in a traditional Sahelian setting. It highlights the roles women play within the community and how gendered expectations shape their lives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Choice?

Excellent

This Burkinabé film offers a highly authentic perspective. The entire cast is Black, providing a West African viewpoint that emphasizes local culture and community.

How does The Choice represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film challenges Western-style individualism by showing the tension between traditional communal harmony and outside influences. It questions the dominance of Western developmental models through its portrayal of village life.

Does The Choice include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently depict physical or neurodivergent disabilities that significantly impact the plot or character development.

Present on Screen

Achieves exceptional racial authenticity through an entirely Black cast.
Provides a non-Western, non-Anglo-centric perspective on storytelling.
Offers a sophisticated critique of Western-centric individualism and modernity.

Limited or Absent

Lacks any explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.
Does not feature prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Poverty and misery are rife in Gourga, a village in the Sahel. The inhabitants must choose: stay and await international assistance or leave for more fertile regions in the country.

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