Niiwam 1988
In the poignant Senegalese drama *Niiwam (1988)*, director Clarence Thomas Delgado crafts a raw and emotionally charged journey that follows a grieving father as he navigates the crushing weight of tradition and bureaucracy.
Director: Clarence Thomas Delgado
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Niiwam (1988) about?
*Niiwam (1988)* tells the story of a man who must transport the body of his deceased infant daughter by public bus to bury her according to tradition. The film captures his emotional turmoil and the societal pressures that surround him as he confronts both grief and bureaucracy.
Who directed Niiwam?
Clarence Thomas Delgado directed *Niiwam (1988)*, bringing a stark and immersive realism to the film's emotional narrative.
Who stars in Niiwam?
The film stars Rama Thiam in the lead role, supported by Samba Wane.
Is Niiwam (1988) worth watching?
While it's not a mainstream title, *Niiwam (1988)* is a deeply moving and culturally significant film worth watching for fans of African cinema and character-driven dramas. Its unflinching portrayal of grief and tradition makes it a standout in Senegalese cinema.
How long is Niiwam?
The film has a runtime of 80 minutes.
About Niiwam (1988) — A Grief-Stricken Father's Journey Through Senegalese Tradition
In the poignant Senegalese drama *Niiwam (1988)*, director Clarence Thomas Delgado crafts a raw and emotionally charged journey that follows a grieving father as he navigates the crushing weight of tradition and bureaucracy. The film opens on a heartbreaking note: after losing his infant daughter, a man is compelled to transport her body by public bus to fulfill cultural burial rites. What unfolds is a stark exploration of sorrow, resilience, and the stark realities faced by a man caught between personal agony and societal expectations. The confined setting of the bus amplifies the film's intensity, turning the journey into a metaphor for the inescapable nature of grief and the slow, painful process of acceptance.
Delgado's direction lends a documentary-like realism to the narrative, while Rama Thiam delivers a quietly devastating performance that anchors the film in humanity. Blending comedy and drama, *Niiwam (1988)* navigates the fine line between despair and fleeting moments of levity, offering a glimpse into the cultural fabric of Senegal. The film's understated yet powerful storytelling lingers long after the credits roll, making it a compelling watch for those interested in African cinema's ability to blend personal stories with broader social commentary.