Washington, DC — The image of African women in the media has gone through several positive transformations over the years. African filmmakers are increasingly showing the diversity of African women and the idea of African womanhood.
Koundandi is one of those rare films that capture the complex, sometimes mystical, nature of female relationships in Africa.
This 2004 contribution by Burkinabe filmmaker Apolline Traore belongs among such groundbreaking works as Faate Kine (2001/Ousmane Sembene), Ndeysaan (2002/Mansour Sora Wade) and Moolaadé (2004/Ousmane Sembene). The fact that Traore is an African woman and that this is her first major film makes such a contribution even more relevant in a field dominated by men.
Lasting only 50 minutes, Koundandi is a relatively short film, but it has its place in African folklore.
The film is set in a pre-colonial West African village_ and tells a story of love, family and sacrifice. The story begins with the marital problems of Miriam, the unsatisfied wife of Moussa, whose impotence and drinking habit push his wife into the arms of another man.
Koundandi is a girl-child born under tumultuous circumstances. A dwarf, she is born to a mysterious woman who wanders into the village but dies while giving birth before anyone can find out who she is or where she came from.
At birth Koundandi is given to Miriam and Moussa, who, because of Moussa's impotence, are childless. Miriam's affairs do not end, however, and Moussa seeks revenge by fatally shooting Miriam. This leaves Koundandi on her own, and as dwarfs are thought to bring bad luck, she is kicked out in the street.
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Koundandi's life takes a turn for the better when she meets Karim, who befriends her and helps her build a miniature house. Koundandi sets upon making her own living by selling fried cakes, which become popular with everyone, especially Karim. Problems arise when Karim's wife, Awa, returns home from a trip. The feelings both women have for Karim are evident, as both women express their love for him. The dramatic, supernatural conclusion of this love triangle is what true African folktales are made of.
The twist at the end reflects the strength and determination of two women's love for a man and the power of belief.
The film can be purchased at California Newsreel
Koundandi
Director: Apolline Traore
50 Minutes, Burkina Faso, 2004
In Jula with English subtitles
