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Yaaba

Name: Yaaba
Director: Idrissa Ouedraogo
Released: 1989
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

1989

Director

Idrissa Ouedraogo

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Yaaba is a profound examination of social utility and communal ethics. It succeeds by presenting a deeply authentic West African setting that avoids external stereotypes, offering a nuanced look at indigenous kinship and social structures. The film's strength lies in its sophisticated critique of traditional hierarchies. By centering an elderly woman who has lost her domestic utility, the narrative challenges the morality of the collective and the ways communities marginalize the vulnerable. However, the film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and does not focus on specific physical disabilities. Its scope is intentionally localized, which limits its engagement with these specific modern diversity metrics.

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Category Breakdown

Does Yaaba have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The social structure remains focused on traditional community norms without incorporating queer themes.

How does Yaaba portray gender?

Good

The narrative challenges patriarchal norms by focusing on an elderly woman whose influence exists beyond traditional domestic roles. Yaaba's independence in medicine defies the village's undervaluation of women.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Yaaba?

Excellent

The film provides an authentic glimpse into West African life with an entirely Black cast. It avoids the Western perspective by emphasizing local ability to act and specific Burkinabé cultural elements.

How does Yaaba represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story critiques rigid social norms that prioritize communal utility over individual dignity. It portrays the village institution as a source of systemic oppression for those sidelined.

Does Yaaba include disability representation?

Good

The film examines the social impact of aging and the experience of being viewed as a burden. It highlights the psychological strain of being considered a communal liability.

Present on Screen

Authentic West African representation through a culturally specific setting and an entirely Black cast.
Sophisticated critique of patriarchal structures and gender-based hierarchies.
Nuanced exploration of how social institutions can marginalize individuals based on perceived utility.

Limited or Absent

Absence of LGBTQ+ characters or non-traditional gender narratives.
Lack of representation regarding specific physical disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A small African village. The story focuses on Bila, a ten year old boy who befriends an old woman, Sana. Everybody calls her 'Witch' but Bila himself calls her 'Yaaba' (grandmother). When Bila's cousin Nopoko gets sick it is Sana's medicine that saves her.

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