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While We Live

Name: While We Live
Director: Dani Kouyaté
Released: 2016
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2016

Director

Dani Kouyaté

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

While We Live is a powerful narrative that shifts the focus away from Western perspectives. By centering the experiences of the African diaspora during repatriation, the film goes beyond including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth to give characters of color rich psychological depth and significant roles. The film's strength lies in its intentional approach to setting and casting. It replaces the conventional migrant narrative with a complex study of cultural reclamation and the realities of a globalized identity. However, the film's narrow focus on the central family unit means it lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does While We Live have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses solely on the family bonds between the mother and children.

How does While We Live portray gender?

Fair

Kandia is a strong, independent character who drives the plot forward through her decision to move. The story avoids the cliché of a submissive female by giving her significant influence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is While We Live?

Excellent

The film stands out by featuring an African-majority cast and highlighting West African viewpoints. It offers a deep look into the experiences of the diaspora and the overlapping aspects of identity.

How does While We Live represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative delves into post-colonial themes, questioning the idea of returning to a homeland. It challenges the simplistic notion of homecoming through a nuanced perspective.

Does While We Live include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently feature characters with visible or invisible disabilities that play a central role in the plot.

Present on Screen

Highlights West African perspectives and an African-majority cast.
Gives the female protagonist, Kandia, a strong and influential role.
Explores the diaspora experience and overlapping aspects of identity deeply.
Moves beyond Western-centric clichés by addressing the complexities of repatriation.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities.
Does not feature prominent depictions of disability.

Official Synopsis

Kandia, an African women in her fifties who has lived in Sweden for 30 years, decides to move back to Gambia. Her son Ibbe, who dreams of a career in hip hop and is about to make a breakthrough, goes with her. Their encounter with their homeland, however, doesn't turn out the way they imagined. A warm, broad drama comedy about a universal theme: identity.

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