Director
S. Pierre Yameogo
Cast list
Blandine Yaméogo ... Napoko
Claire Ilboudo ... Pougbila
Célestin Zongo ... Diahrra
Abdoulaye Komboudri ... Nonceur
Daniel Kabore ... Bancé, l'ancien
Jules Taonssa ... Raogo, le devin
Thomas Ngourma ... Elie, le fou
Credits
Written and Produced by S. Pierre Yameogo
Cinematography by Jürg Hassler
Edited by Jean-Christophe Ané
Production Credits: Dunga Productions, Les Films de l'Espoir, Thelma Film AG
Synopsis
Delwende draws on a true story of a mother and daughter who are accused of witchcraft following the death of a boy who had meningitis. Despite the knowledge that there is an epidemic of meningitis throughout rural areas of Burkina Faso, Napoko Diarrha is accused of eating the boy’s soul. The rumor of her witchcraft is disseminated by her husband, who is angry with her because she disagreed with the idea of marrying their daughter off. Fearing for her life, Napoko flees to a nearby town before her trial can take place. Just as Napoko is losing hope, her daughter Pougbila meets her in the neighboring town and they attempt to escape the traditional and male-dominated society.
Reviews
Catsoulis, Jeannette. “In Burkina Faso, Rebellion Stirs.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 7 Oct. 2008, www.nytimes.com/2008/10/08/movies/08delw.html.
Curiel, Jonathan. “'Delwende'.” SFGate, San Francisco Chronicle, 9 Feb. 2012, www.sfgate.com/movies/article/Delwende-3187710.php.
Weissberg, Jay. “Delwende.” Variety, 13 May 2005, variety.com/2005/film/markets-festivals/delwende-1200525893/.
Author – Chris Forget