DAR NOIR
A classic thriller set in the
fastest growing capital in Africa, Dar es Salaam, DAR NOIR, portrays not only
the life of a working class detective caught up in a downward spiral
professionally and emotionally but current social issues such as drug and human
trafficking. The director, Hamadi
Mwapachu, packages all the above in a neatly explained story that doesn’t leave
much to the imagination but gives an accurate portrayal of an underworld life
where betrayal, love and forgiveness merge into a real life situation and
ending.
Documentary style street settings
run parallel with close to perfect cinematography of a modern Dar es Salaam:
setting a tone to the film that reflects the “ all that glitters is not gold “
relevance to the storyline. The script is simple and to the point and perhaps
more humorous in Swahili than the subtitles convey. The characters are comfortable in
their roles and act with an unnerving confidence and understanding of
themselves: an amazing well typed cast with strong lead roles.
DAR NOIR runs smoothly from scene
to scene using different camera angles to enhance and set the mood. The actor’s costumes are choice for a budget
movie and are referred to in a “tongue and cheek” statement by one of the
actors. DAR NOIR is set in real
locations which blend with the story line and situation. No glamour, pretence
nor unnecessary influences on its elements.
No diversions from the characters or the dialogue.
The strength of this film is also
in the soundtrack with its mix of modern cosmopolitan African sounds that
merges with the cinematography in not only highlighting the scenery but adding emotional relief to a film that keeps you in suspense throughout. It’s the soul of the film and the glue that
cements the story.
‘A breakout film that crosses over to all audiences and touches on a
hidden reality in a modern African city’
Lily An
‘ A new genre of African thrillers with artistic overtones and a
powerful soundtrack ‘ Lily An
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