Film
Kirikou and the Sorceress

Introduced by Michel Ocelot


Friday, January 25, 2019
7pm
Followed by Opening Night Party
Ages 6+
FIAF Florence Gould Hall



Kirikou and the Sorceress
Dir. Michel Ocelot, France, 1998.
70 min. 35mm. Color.
In French with English subtitles

Animation First celebrates the 20th anniversary of Kirikou and the Sorceress, one of France’s most iconic animated films, with a special screening introduced by the film’s director, Michel Ocelot.

When it was released in 1998, the film marked a turning point in the industry, unleashing a renewed interest for original and audacious animated filmmaking in France. Fusing African myth, stunning imagery, and a sophisticated sensibility that attracted both adults and children, Ocelot broadened the scope of what animation could accomplish on screen.

Steeped in popular African folktales, director Michel Ocelot—who spent his childhood in Guinea—brings to life the exquisite adventures of little Kirikou, a smart and courageous boy who must save his village from a flesh-eating sorceress and her terrible curse. As he sets on this journey, Kirikou encounters friends and foes including a monster, a skunk, squirrels, wise men, and the sorceress Karaba’s army of watchmen.

The film’s gorgeous animation is accompanied by an original score by acclaimed musician Youssou N’Dour.

The screening will be followed by the festival opening night party.

Preceded by:

Le port de la Lune
Dir. Aymeric Castaing, 2017.
2 mins 10 secs. No dialogue.
VR short produced by Umanimation
Go on a skateboarding adventure around Bordeaux! Enjoy a virtual reality experience by Unanimation, presented as part of Highlights from Bordeaux.