Review: ‘The Revolution Won’t Be Televised’

Hot Docs 2016

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2 mins read

The Revolution Won’t Be Televised
(Senegal/France, 110 min.)
Dir. Rama Thiaw
Programme: World Showcase (North American Premiere)

 

The Revolution Won’t Be Televised is about 20 minutes too long and the story meanders off course several times through the course of the film. But for someone who is not privy at all to Senegalese politics or culture, the film provides an entry point into a country thirsty for change. This change is being brought about by a group of rappers leading a protest movement known as Y’en a Marre. They are fed up with the corrupt rule of Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade, who is shown throughout the film being interviewed in a palatial-like environment in France by a popular French news outlet. The footage of the president completely contrasts with scenes shot in the gritty, poverty-stricken streets of Dakar. The footage stands as a signal to the audience that there is a discouraging disparity within the country.

This David vs. Goliath story brings us closer to the loveable personalities of Thiat and Kilifeau, the Senegalese rappers who inspire Y’en a Marre to rise against injustice and fight with words. This nonviolent angle brings a different perspective to outsiders looking into a war-torn African continent.

The Revolution Won’t Be Televised screens:
-Friday, May 6 at Cineplex Scotiabank at 3:00 PM

Please visit the POV Hot Docs hub for more coverage on this year’s festival.

Hot Docs runs April 28 – May 8. Visit www.hotdocs.ca for more information.

 

 

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