“Timbuktu” is a French-Mauritanian drama film directed by Abderrahmane Sissako. The film is set in the city of Timbuktu, which is under the control of Islamic extremists. The story follows a family who is forced to comply with the new extremist laws, which restrict everything from music and laughter to the way people dress and behave. The film explores themes of religious extremism, freedom, and the resilience of human spirit in the face of oppression.
Review:
“Timbuktu” was universally acclaimed by critics for its powerful message and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. The film's cinematography, direction, and performances were particularly praised by critics, who hailed it as a masterpiece of contemporary cinema. The film's ability to address complex issues in a nuanced and sensitive way, while also being deeply affecting and emotionally resonant, was widely admired.
Awards:
“Timbuktu” received several awards and nominations, including the César Award for Best Film and the Prix Lumière for Best Director. The film was also nominated for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards. Additionally, the film won the Prize of the Ecumenical Jury at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival, along with several other awards at international film festivals.
| Directed by | Abderrahmane Sissako |
|---|---|
| Produced by | Sylvie Pialat Étienne Comar |
| Written by | Abderrahmane Sissako Kessen Tall |
| Starring | Abel Jafri, Hichem Yacoubi, |
| Music by | Amine Bouhafa |
| Cinematography | Sofian El Fani |
| Edited by | Nadia Ben Rachid |
| Production companies |
Arte France Cinéma Canal+ Ciné+ CNC TV5 Monde |
| Distributed by | Cohen Media Group |
| Release date | 15 May 2014 (Cannes) 10 December 2014 (France) |
| Running time | 96 minutes |
| Countries | Mauritania France |
| Languages | Hassaniya Arabic English French Tamasheq Bambara |
| Box office | $7.2 million |