In Bamako, Mali, Melé (Aїssa Maїga) and Chaka (Tiécoura Traoré)’s marriage crisis plays out amidst their wider life of their community. A trial is being held in the courtyard of their shared house, where international financial institutions the World Bank and IMF have been brought up on charges against African society.
Disastrous economic policies have left the country in debt, with inadequate health and education services having a devastating effect on its population. Witnesses from all walks of life are called to testify, from a passionately eloquent politician to an unemployed teacher whose silence speaks volumes. As the debate continues and horrifying facts and figures are detailed, everyday life in the courtyard goes on.
Screened at the London Film Festival 2006 as part of the World Cinema Gala, and out of competition at Cannes 2006, director Abderrahmane Sissako’s fifth feature is a beautifully composed and lyrical film that explores the effects of economic mismanagement and corruption on individual lives.