Part documentary, part fiction - this short film addresses the history of the two African Congos as they achieve their own independence. The narrator, Sasheer Zamata, leads us through the history, while sharing the story of a fictional eight-year-old who's able to time travel and experience the independence. This short is Part III of a series, and hence that may be why it's a bit confusing at times.
I like the content; history can be boring but the filmmaker spiced it up with this presentation. The weakness is in the presentation which jumps between fiction and nonfiction too quickly. The host, Sasheer Zamata, stands in front of a green screen for her presentation, with some archival images popping up behind her at times. Sasheer Zamata was a cast member on Saturday Night Live, so she is recognizable to many. The animation is simple 2D, but colorful and has the texture of a watercolor painting. I love the colors used. There is one scene on a boat where the sky is an interesting spiral pattern, which is reflected in the water and is gorgeous. The celebratory scenes are full of life and color. There is a good distinction between the past and present as well. The background music is appropriate; it feels typical of the regions the film discusses and suits the emotions of the various scenes. The main character is Akesi, the eight-year-old who time travels. His character develops throughout the film and shows his strength. He starts out unclear of how to confront bullies and ends up beating them at their own game. There is one technical error, around 8 minutes, when two audio tracks play simultaneously. This needs to be fixed prior to exhibition. I applaud the music director as there are some great beats! My favorite part of the film is the boat scene early on; it's very visually appealing.
The message of the film is that the way to win is by working together.
I give Akesi And The Fight For Independence 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Rupeshi S. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Part documentary, part fiction - this short film addresses the history of the two African Congos as they achieve their own independence. The narrator, Sasheer Zamata, leads us through the history, while sharing the story of a fictional eight-year-old who's able to time travel and experience the independence. This short is Part III of a series, and hence that may be why it's a bit confusing at times.
I like the content; history can be boring but the filmmaker spiced it up with this presentation. The weakness is in the presentation which jumps between fiction and nonfiction too quickly. The host, Sasheer Zamata, stands in front of a green screen for her presentation, with some archival images popping up behind her at times. Sasheer Zamata was a cast member on Saturday Night Live, so she is recognizable to many. The animation is simple 2D, but colorful and has the texture of a watercolor painting. I love the colors used. There is one scene on a boat where the sky is an interesting spiral pattern, which is reflected in the water and is gorgeous. The celebratory scenes are full of life and color. There is a good distinction between the past and present as well. The background music is appropriate; it feels typical of the regions the film discusses and suits the emotions of the various scenes. The main character is Akesi, the eight-year-old who time travels. His character develops throughout the film and shows his strength. He starts out unclear of how to confront bullies and ends up beating them at their own game. There is one technical error, around 8 minutes, when two audio tracks play simultaneously. This needs to be fixed prior to exhibition. I applaud the music director as there are some great beats! My favorite part of the film is the boat scene early on; it's very visually appealing.
The message of the film is that the way to win is by working together.
I give Akesi And The Fight For Independence 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Rupeshi S. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
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