Night of the Kings Poster

Night of the Kings 2021

★ 6.686 votes93 min📅 2021-02-26

"A film about resistance and the power of words in the face of violence."

Philippe Lacôte's *Night of the Kings* (2021) plunges viewers into the raw, pulsating heart of a West African prison where survival is dictated by tradition rather than law.

Director: Philippe Lacôte

Cast

Koné Bakary
Roman
Steve Tientcheu
Steve Tientcheu
Barbe Noire (Blackbeard)
Digbeu Jean Cyrille
Demi-Fou (Half-Mad)
Rasmané Ouédraogo
Rasmané Ouédraogo
Soni
Issaka Sawadogo
Issaka Sawadogo
Nivaquine
Denis Lavant
Denis Lavant
Silence
Abdoul Karim Konaté
Lass
Macel Anzian
Lame de Rasoir (Razor Blade)
Gbazi Yves Landry
Sexy
Umar Aïcha Lola
Albino Woman

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Night of the Kings (2021) about?

The film follows a young man sent to a notoriously brutal Ivorian prison, where he must keep the inmates enthralled by telling an unbroken story from dusk until dawn. His narrative weaves the mythic adventures of the legendary outlaw Zama King, blending folklore with the harsh realities of prison life.

Who directed Night of the Kings?

Philippe Lacôte helmed this gripping drama, known for his evocative storytelling and deep connection to West African culture.

Who stars in Night of the Kings?

The film features standout performances from Koné Bakary, Steve Tientcheu, Digbeu Jean Cyrille, Rasmané Ouédraogo, and Issaka Sawadogo.

Is Night of the Kings (2021) worth watching?

With its bold visuals and emotionally charged narrative, *Night of the Kings* is a compelling watch for fans of drama and African cinema. Though not yet rated on IMDb, its themes and execution make it a standout film worth seeking out.

How long is Night of the Kings?

The film runs for 93 minutes, delivering a tight and immersive experience.

🎥 Trailer

Night of the Kings (2021): A Gripping Tale of Survival and Storytelling — Full Movie Info

Philippe Lacôte's *Night of the Kings* (2021) plunges viewers into the raw, pulsating heart of a West African prison where survival is dictated by tradition rather than law. When a young inmate arrives at "La Maca," a remote Ivorian prison ruled by its own brutal codes, he's thrust into a deadly ritual. As the red moon rises, he's named the new "Roman," tasked with spinning a tale from dusk till dawn—or face the consequences. What unfolds is a mesmerizing blend of folklore and grit, as the protagonist weaves the legendary exploits of the outlaw Zama King, using words as both shield and weapon against the encroaching darkness.

This isn't just a prison drama; it's a visceral meditation on storytelling itself. Lacôte crafts an atmosphere thick with tension and magic, where every whispered word carries the weight of life and death. The film's themes of resistance and the transformative power of narrative resonate long after the credits roll, making *Night of the Kings* a standout in modern African cinema. With its hypnotic visuals and gripping performances, it's a cinematic experience that lingers like the echo of a story told just in time.