Original subtitles

Okay...

Hello, Jacqueline. How are you?

- I'm fine, thank you. - Good?

I'm fine.

No, It's not torture.

I just don't like to be in the limelight.

That's mainly it

We're meeting people.

The first step is to make this family

It's going to be a real fake family.

There'll be actors, professional actors

and lots of others who haven't acted yet,

friends, family, that sort of thing.

If you want to invent things, you go ahead.

- At the intensity I want? - Exactly

True or not, that's up to you.

I want an exchange with you, but it will move into fiction

All right.

Who am I? I am...

I'm Francine Ayivi.

I'm the mother of three grown-up children.

I'm a woman...

French, of African origin,

living in the south of France, who is a mother, who works,

and who lives in an African community

that has expanded,

that has grown over time,

and that has shaped us, because it's part of our base.

When we watched Tarzan, the next day at school,

they would call you "Djudju Bwana. there were fights all the time.

Very early on I was aware

of the difference.

And then I got respect.

- You were good at fighting? - Very good.

At headbutting.

- Really? - Yeah.

We are from that first generation.

We're the children of the first generation of immigrants.

I remember that my father arrived by boat.

He hid in the hold of a ship.

He arrived in Marseille.

My father always thought big.

He took the bus to Paris.

On the way, the bus stopped in a tiny town

in Seine-Maritime.

The bus got caught in a snowstorm.

He spent the night in a café.

He was looking for a hotel.

He was told, "You'll never get a room because you're black."

It was the first time they had seen a black man.

Me? I could see myself playing a coach...

I don't know...

What wouldn't I like to play

A battered, submissive woman.

Except one who kills her husband.

That I could do!

A black woman

who is just as successful as an American or European woman.

I'd find that hard.

That said, I haven't tried.

I've never tried.

This is it.

Should I look at the camera?

Whatever.

I'm head of hygiene at a children's hospital.

Working with sick people can be tough.

But I've been there for 10 years...

I wouldn't want to change.

I have a daughter whom I've raised on my own.

Her father... abandoned us...

- I'll start again. - It's fine!

Just improvise.

- Improvise? - Yeah.

Oh man!

I'm a...

Let's just say I'm a single mom.

I'm raising my 22 y.o. daughter

I've taught her to rely on herself,

not to worry about men.

Unfortunately, when they leave,

they take the TV, their clothes,

and leave nothing but problems.

Sometimes I have visions, I sense things.

Now, I just let it happen.

I'm a bit of a healer. I think I can help people,

relieve pain... But I don't shout about it.

I hung on, and I'm here.

It toughens you up.

You become a crocodile, a dragon

But I'm trying to shed this armor.

It doesn't really help me.

My daughter wants me to settle down with someone.

So I'm not alone.

She's insisting. I don't know what will happen.

Anyway, if she has children, it will be a gift.

A blessing

My name is Gloria, I'm 50.

I have a daughter.

James has asked me to marry him.

Okay...

You're students. How will that work?

We want to get married.

But not tomorrow?

- Next year. - Wait.

No. Listen carefully.

You've got time.

Right, so why not now?

- Why wait? - Are you pregnant?

Are you pregnant?

Why do you want to get married?

Tell me.

Life is long.

You can't just get divorced...

- We won't. - I didn't say that.

Shit!

For my generation, marriage was like a ball and chain.

And then it was over.

All the beautiful things we used to share:

tenderness, relaxation, vacations, weekends...

Because once your relationship was sealed,

you were locked into it.

It's the other way around.

We promise each other our lives...

That's nice, but...

I don't...

I'm sorry.

It's not much further now.

- Do you recognize it? - Yes.

The village is easy to get to.

The name of the village.

Cacheu.

Benvenuto, bienvenue, welcome.

Stop here.

After you.

Welcome to the village of your ancestors.

It's okay.

It was worth the long trip.

You're here!

You've arrived!

This is my daughter.

Hey, cousin.

You've arrived safe and sound.

- You've come for the ceremony? - Yes.

This is my aunt.

- Do you recognize me? - Yes, I do.

How are the children? Where's your daughter?

There he is.

- How was your trip? - Fine. A bit long for her.

- Your grandfather's son. My brother. - Your brother?

- Your niece. - Here she is.

- This is my daughter. - Your daughter?

Go greet your uncles.

Is she your daughter?

What's your name?

- He's asking your name. - Nour.

Did you have a good trip?

Nour! You're here!

- We're home. - Good trip?

How are you?

It's been a long time...

Too long.

I've missed you.

We've missed you too.

Come here!

This is your grandfather's house.

What's the matter?

Stop crying...

This is a picture of your grandfather.

These are our ancestors.

Photos of our ancestors.

You recognize certain photos. You've heard about them.

She's your daughter?

You came for Dad's ceremony.

To make it happen.

And then we're going to do the custom.

We'll beat the drums and then do the Uchoss.

Plant the Uchap.

These are the customs of our village.

Then the Kut Kut will play.

That's our culture.

It'll be all right.

Don't cry.

No, wait. Stop exaggerating!

I always did the shopping.

Dad sent me all over.

You didn't do the dishes or the housework.

You didn't.

We weren't going to ask to do it!

Stop tormenting me!

- Tormenting you? - Yes.

When we went out,

we couldn't even dress like women.

Do you remember that?

That was part of the folklore.

To toughen you up.

If you call your sister "fat", it's insulting.

No, not insulting, just teasing.

It was not just between us

That stuff turns you into a rabid dog.

But weren't you the pissed one?

You bet I was pissed. You pressured us, admit it!

We were there to protect you.

Who messed with you?

Who? You did, with your shoe!

No, but you were...

I'm sick of them!

But look out, cousins! We're not girls anymore.

I mean it.

Let's take this outside!

But calm down though.

You weren't easy to live with.

It would be nice if you'd acknowledge it for once.

We're all adults.

- Was it too much? - I admit it.

You admit it?

What about you?

Pierre? It was both of them, right?

Do you admit you were a bit harsh?

Admit what?

Look at his face!

Admit it? OK, fine.

No, it's not fine.

Say it. What do you admit?

I admit it, that's all.

I admit... There.

Time will tell.

Now you're not so angry.

- You'll pay for my transport? - If you want me to.

- Will you? - Yes.

Don't worry.

I'm tired of working in the fields.

If you're leaving, I'm coming with you.

That's fine.

When are you leaving?

Sunday.

- Next Sunday? - Yes.

We call her Assome.

Assome.

Auntie?

I'm home.

How are you?

This is my daughter. Nour.

You've come to introduce me to my granddaughter?

- Where is she? - This is her.

Get up and sit on my lap.

She wants to take you in her lap.

- I'm pretty heavy. - Gently.

Sit down.

You've come to introduce me to my granddaughter.

Here I am.

You've come to my house.

I'm so happy!

She's so happy!

That's nice.

Here are the graves.

You haven't seen them like this.

Salania tiled them.

The other one is our grandfather's.

And that one is our father's.

We came two years ago for your funeral.

Here we are again for your ceremony.

I wanted to tell you that...

Your granddaughter Nour is getting married in a year.

I know you would've liked to be there.

I can't...

You're pushing me with your feet.

Hey, not bad!

Long live the bride and groom!

A kiss!

Congratulations!

May God give you long life, many children.

- May God aid you. - Amen.

My daughter, you've come at the right time.

I wish you all the happiness in the world

and may life be easy for you.

Thank you.

Our blessings.

I've known you since you were little.

- I'm happy to see him married. - She saved my ass at school.

A-grade student!

She's so beautiful, really.

Long live the bride and groom!

Come over here!

Long live the bride and groom!

Congratulations, guys!

Oh, my darling!

Uncle...

Congratulations!

It's been too long!

- My girl! - Next it'll be me!

Easy, easy...

Smile.

Okay, very good.

Hand out of your pocket

Time to show us the cash.

It's gonna cost you!

Uncles and aunts...

Wait, I'm an auntie!

- Excuse me. - Annick, this is outrageous!

That's perfect.

Okay. One more.

The groom, big smile!

We're the stars!

Uncle! Come in here!

Grandpa Alphonse.

Here I am.

Some water for peace.

In Dad's name.

Amanian, here's the water.

Your grandchildren are here.

I'll pour.

Salania, we're listening.

Formose Amanian, your grandchildren are here.

We saw them arrive this morning.

We were sitting outside the house.

It was a moving morning...

They brought their father's possessions.

That's why we are here,

to tell you that they arrived safely.

We ask that you bring them peace and watch over them.

We pray that the ceremony starts and ends well.

We are here to ask Papa and our ancestors

to guide and protect us.

We want everyone to be well and at peace.

Did you hear, Lima?

I did.

We asked the children to come here before the Ichaps.

It's our tradition.

Formose Amanian, do you hear me?

Death is real, it is divine will.

So they're here for their father's ceremony.

Their father was born here,

and then he ventured abroad.

He had his children there.

And after his death

they have come back here for the ceremony.

We're glad they came.

You hear, Formose Amanian, we pray for health and peace.

I'll stop here.

When you have children abroad,

you have to make sure

they know where they come from.

So they can return one day and say,

"This is the village of my father".

It makes us proud

to hear our children say

they're going to their father's village.

And once they return abroad,

that luck and opportunities multiply for them.

I'm glad to see the family and to be here.

We got here a little later, but we're here.

I brought my daughter with me so she could meet her family

and understand our customs.

It's my first time here.

I'm very happy.

I loved it and cried with emotion.

I'm really very happy.

I also wish peace

to those who are with us

and those who have already left us.

So thank you.

I too wish only peace.

I pray for peace and health for everyone.

May everyone go about their business in peace.

That's all I ask.

Did you hear, Papa?

Did you hear, Amanian?

He's saying this is Amanian, your great-grandfather,

Louis' father.

And these little bits of wood...

these are your great-great-grandfathers.

Nobody remembers their names because it was so long ago.

We should have asked our fathers.

Nobody told us.

We have to thank our uncles...

The family, from generation to generation, has become intercontinental.

It's really wonderful to be together.

There are whites and blacks,

but it's all the same blood.

There's no... Never...

We make no distinction.

For that, we can thank French colonization.

No, boo!

No colonization

- The Portuguese were racist. - The French too.

I spent three weeks in an Airbnb in Caen for my show.

The apartment was great.

There were four paintings in the apartment.

There was a big black-and-white painting of a koala.

A painting of a horse, a painting of a bison

and a painting of a black woman!

You know, like a "giraffe woman' with huge earrings.

I'm struggling too.

I had to go to England looking for scraps.

There's nothing here in France.

We don't exist!

I'm a nuisance, that's a fact.

I bother everyone.

I'll bother you a bit more, in different ways.

It's tough!

I don't care. I wanted to see myself up there.

To see how it felt, to see if I could do it.

Congrats!

- Hi, Auntie. - Hello, you!

It's been a while.

How are you?

My God. you're men now!

We've grown!

Is it your son? Sure is!

Marie-Thérèse! It's been too long!

Marie-Thérèse!

Who is that?

Maïlane! You didn't recognize her?

The little ones are no longer little.

She was five!

You don't remember me?

Don't you remember?

So beautiful!

So grown up!

It's been a long time. Good to see you.

Everybody's fine.

All good?

We gotta be, right?

I started my own business.

I've had children...

How many kids do you have?

I've got six now.

Six!

Nobody would know!

- You're beautiful! - Thank you.

This makes me so happy.

- You made it, it's over. - Thank God.

- I'm happy too! - I'm so glad you came.

- How are you? - I'm fine. Thank God.

It's been an ordeal. But I'm delighted to be here today.

I really am.

And your daughter is beautiful.

This is such an extraordinary moment.

I feel like I'm dreaming.

I'm as moved from seeing you as I am by this whole day.

I'm here by the grace of God.

I'm just saying... Off the record.

Please, make sure you leave with the same one you arrived with.

I'll leave with my kids. Relax.

I see a little muffin top!

Are you kidding? Look who's talking!

My mother's been in Nanterre for years now.

I moved there in 1971.

Really? Wow!

I grew up there.

Then I moved to Mantes.

My father's gone now, sadly.

But my mother is still there.

I've no idea.

My son is over there.

- My daughter is... - On her phone.

Yes, for a change!

Beautiful.

Come on. What's your name?

Come on...

What's your name?

Are you okay?

Hello, little man. What's up?

Are you lost? Shall we go find your parents?

Are you Robin Hood?

Come with us.

Come on, let's find them.

Is your name Isaac?

His name's Adam.

His name is Isaac.

He's with his brother.

You have to master it.

Come over here.

- Smile... - Shit!

Like this?

...a meteorite, a shooting star...

Charmer!

Hello.

She's beautiful.

She's superb.

Could have been ours.

Hey, I'm kidding.

You won't upset me on her big day?

No, I won't.

You look great.

So do you. Very elegant.

You, more.

I made an effort.

It doesn't take much for you.

How's Soraya?

She's gone.

Hamdoullah.

- Right? - Yes.

May I?

A little strand.

I won't get in trouble for this.

No, go ahead.

A little strand in your hair.

In your hair... I mean over your eyes.

Funny though, isn't it?

Why do kids get married?

We didn't do that.

Maybe that's why. They want to do what we didn't

- Yes - That's why.

We were young.

in love... and you were beautiful.

- And you ran really fast. A sprinter. - You remember?

Could have won at the Olympics.

I did, in my head.

No, you actually did.

You run very fast.

Look, young people commit these days.

Yeah, yeah.

Take James and Nour.

Where did that come from? A big, glitzy wedding... Not from me!

Walt -fucking-Disney

Didn't you let her binge cartoons just to get some peace?

- Charming as ever. - It's true!

You doing OK?

Just doing.

He says hesitantly.

My ancestor,

your nephews have come to see you.

They've come a long way.

It's nothing serious, they've come to pour a bottle for you.

Because this is where their grandfather and father were born.

My ancestor, here is your niece.

She has come to ask

for good luck in her life.

Rub your hands together...

and wipe your face.

My ancestor, your niece is here,

she's come to ask you for luck

and to return home safely.

Wash your hands and clean your face!

My ancestor,

now it's the brother's turn.

Here he is.

OK, I'd like to be in the film.

- Do you want to film me? - Yes

Good. May the film be beautiful.

Yes, you can film the tradition.

- A real ceremony or a simulated one? - Simulated.

Simulated? OK.

Which role would you like to play?

I want to play the cook

Coordinating everything.

Setting the mood.

And dancing.

My favorite films are about culture.

Don't you like to watch sentimental films?

I've seen some.

So you don't like them?

Well...

I'm sitting here...

I'm on the bed here...

I love my husband.

love him and he loves me back.

It's me, Bolou.

I have a message

from France and Dakar.

Speak up.

There's a message from France.

Also from Dakar. They paid their contributions.

The people in Dakar contributed 200,000 francs.

Grandmothers, aunts, uncles...

We heard.

There's also more from people in Europe.

They sent, I went to collect.

It's 400,000.

We're not done.

Open the envelope.

Jean-Claude, you should come here.

Jean-Claude, the money is here.

The people in Portugal also sent theirs.

People from Dakar and France.

I feared for the ceremony...

But with all this, it will be a feast.

It's a lot.

God is with us.

Salania, you're the elder of the house.

You decide who keeps the money...

and then what we will do with it.

We've already discussed it.

As far as I'm concerned,

Alphonse is here, let him keep the money.

This is not a problem.

It was Jean-Claude who always kept the money,

and nothing went missing.

Since our father's time, Jean-Claude has kept the money.

So he's going to keep it.

The eldest has decided.

So he keeps it, and that's final.

It doesn't matter what you say,

you have to respect his decision.

Alphonse keeps the money.

Alphonse keeps it.

You think I don't recognize European money?

Count it, and give it to him.

That's all.

You've said nothing but the truth.

Louis has children, all grown up.

They're here for the ceremony. They could have just sent the money.

But since they're here,

you give me the money,

and I give it to his eldest son.

I count the money,

then I give it to him

and he's responsible for it.

- We'll give it to him tomorrow. - No, right now.

OK, we understand.

If you need to buy anything, you ask him.

Here's the money.

Mother, did you hear that?

Do you all agree?

- Shall I keep it? - Yes.

It's done.

- I'll keep it in here. - Good idea.

Tomorrow we'll buy the animals.

Are you still talking? It's done.

I'm very happy.

- Are you happy? - Yes. Keep it safe.

Are we done? Can we go now?

Are we done?

So...

we just had a meeting and we heard from everyone.

It was close!

Concerning the contributions...

As you saw,

without our vigilance, and especially Alphonse's,

we would've lost some of the money.

Now that we've added together

all the various contributions, plus the money we put in,

we have a budget of 3,600 euros.

Okay?

So now, we mustn't go over that budget.

Don't forget there will be a lot of people.

They're going to put pressure on us.

So, we have to stick together.

Papa was someone who...

He was first to leave for France.

He did a lot of work for this house.

He worked a lot.

So we must do everything we can

to make it a really big and beautiful ceremony.

Because he was big here.

Someone to be respected. A good man.

Yes, I agree with all of you.

We stick to what we said and we stay within the budget.

It's going to be tough for a couple of days,

but there you go.

So how do we divide up the tasks?

Because, as you saw, things can quickly get out of control.

We've made a list, to be as prepared as possible.

The list we have includes rice and oil.

As for the rest of the shopping, the fruit and vegetables,

Christine will handle that.

Don't forget to buy soft drinks and a few bottles of whisky.

Palm wine, about 300 liters.

Every day, 100 liters.

Three days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

That's a lot!

It's too much!

It is a lot actually.

What are we doing here?

Are we doing this to honor Dad or just to have a party?

I don't get it.

That's usually how it works.

You have to try...

This is not about me, it's about you.

You have to honor your father as best you can.

What about the sacrifices?

For the cows, it's up to you to decide

how many cows you want to buy.

Six, seven, eight... Ten?

That's a lot!

How much does a cow cost?

We figured 1,000.

- 1,000 euros? - 1,000 euros?

That's 600,000 CFA.

That's a lot!

That's what we said, now we have to stick to it.

I suggest we do whatever we have to,

it's only money after all.

We'll honor our father and organize a beautiful ceremony.

Agreed?

Yes.

If we do it right, we can all rest easy.

Gloria!

You have all the money!

You all right?

It's expensive.

Why are you the captains?

Because we're the best... and the oldest.

- No, you're not! - Yes, we are.

- That doesn't matter. - It does.

- We're the oldest, so we decide. - That sucks!

Caly, come on.

Khadim.

Izia.

I'll take Adam.

Shael.

I'll take... Isaac.

Salomé.

Then I'll take Sewan.

Come on, pass it!

Caly, stop hogging the ball.

I've no defense!

Who remembers the look on their dad's face?

When he looked at you like that...

Who could forget that?

That's the question.

Just doing it now, makes me want to be good.

Before making any mischief, you'd check if he was looking.

You'd even start to cry sometimes. We've all been there.

I use the same look on my kids.

You had it bad.

And the whip, remember?

The threat of the whip.

It was mainly the boys though, right?

No, my sisters and I too... The whip?

You were talking about the whip...

No whip for me. Fingers were enough.

What whip?

We even got an explanation:

"This is only because I love you."

"Then you must love me a lot!"

Looks like a traumatized generation.

I hear people whining:

"My dad punched me in the stomach and I screamed..."

Get up, Isaac.

- Huh? - Get up!

- But... It's my strategy... - Wake up!

- He's only little! - Shut up. Who asked you?

"I'm telling you: what you did was very bad."

"So, tomorrow, to eat... nothing."

He freaked me out.

He was a cheapskate!

- Spanking is a crime now. - Scared of jail?

I am afraid of jail.

Seriously, the law has changed.

Yes!

But the laws at home...

- We educate children differently. - But at home?

At home, there are no laws.

The whip, the belt...

Forget it.

It's over... What?

There's still the look. With the little sound...

The worst violence isn't physical, it's mental.

He took something like this.

A lamp.

He ripped the wire out of it,

he pretended to plug it in,

then put the two wires on my knees.

I was so scared, to me, it was real.

I felt a shock, even though there wasn't one.

I became the man I am today...

I wish he could be here today,

to see my children, and so I could thank him.

I would say thank you to my father every day.

But that was the old way.

Yes... different times.

Who got beaten by Jean-Pierre? Show of hands.

He's the one who beat the most people here, and now...

We're here for a party.

But believe me, the hatred of Jean-Pierre runs deep.

But his experience is invaluable.

He's walked paths before us, and now it's him, the elder,

the old father, nearly 80...

80 years old.

He's had many lives, this gentleman.

He could die at any moment.

- You're not playing! - Can we play?

No, you can't.

- You'll tackle us. - We won't.

OK, but not him.

Where's the line for marriage for us? Tell me.

What are the limits?

If I, Étienne...

told you that me and Djibril...

- We're more than just friends. - Don't start!

So I'm no longer part of the family?

Please. I'm talking from the heart.

What if I told you that me and Djibril

have a strong bond?

Please, please!

Can you answer me honestly?

I'm here because I love my family.

I haven't seen many of you in years. I live further away.

My life, Hamdoullah, is much more beautiful than yours!

Now you're looking for trouble! You are!

I'm joking! But I wasn't kidding before.

I'm asking: Am I still family? Yes or no?

Yes.

He's your family too!

Why? On what grounds?

Of course you are!

I'm not immediate family,

but if we're talking about love...

Let's all calm down. The bride's mother is here.

Let's all... Etienne!

Where's Djibril?

We want to see Djibril.

I didn't hear.

You're deaf, but soon you'll be mute.

You haven't answered.

If I answer your question, will you agree to speak today?

Tomorrow, even, if you like.

Tomorrow? No, today.

- Talk about your life. - No problem.

Be my guest.

So let's talk about your two wives.

You're a polygamist.

It's called polygamy. Seven children.

- Eight. - Eight? OK.

- You don't pay the alimony. - Etienne, easy!

You've gone too far.

You see?

That's too much.

I'm just saying. It's true.

That isn't true.

You called him a polygamist.

- What? - Tell him.

Stop that...

Don't start.

Show some respect.

You're calling me a polygamist! No, I'm serious!

Leave the old man.

- You stop it! - Let's go!

I'm not playing anymore!

What? Where do you want to go?

He's kidding.

Man, where are we going?

Give each other a hug.

- Now you chicken out? - I'm here.

Stay away from me.

Keep your distance.

Hug! Hug!

Here's to family!

One, two... Veterans...

We're here!

Hey! Did you get permission to leave the hospice?

I showed them the way!

They're assassins! Watch out.

No goal.

Hold your position

- But what do I do? - You defend!

They bruised my feet.

It's nothing. That's soccer

Leonardo!... Leonardo!... Leonardo!

You see, I didn't know my dad.

Once in a while, he'd come and see us and then leave.

I just wandered...

There were two of us,

but one ended up dying.

I knew he had other children,

I knew their names.

But them?

Did they ever know I existed?

It was painful... It hurts badly.

I liked my father best at the end of his life.

He was tough.

It was probably to do with the fact that he left.

That he stayed in this country

He hoped... or he expected his children to succeed in life

But we didn't know that.

In the end, he almost apologized.

He said he was sorry.

He said it in Nour's presence.

He appeared...

almost small.

And I think I loved him even more.

Whoever catches it...

We'll eat. We'll eat and drink.

For dad's children, we'll eat and drink...

What can we do for them?

These fish are beautiful

Yes, mixed with bissap leaves.

Five million was spent on today's ceremony.

Five is not much. I'd say more like eight million.

The Manjak children never came here before.

If they get sick, they won't want to come back.

But if everything goes well, in peace,

they'll want to come back.

- You tease me, I'll throw your hat away. - Whatever!

When your father comes, I'll tell him what you said.

Don't wait for him, he's under the mango tree.

I'll go tell him.

No need to call him. Go over there.

Did he give you any money?

Five hundred, and he turned him down!

We don't know when you're going back.

Me neither, but I'll tell you before I go.

Don't worry, I'll tell you.

Until the day after tomorrow...

We continue with Dad's ceremony.

We're all happy because we're his "children"

and we want everything to go well.

The children from France...

You girls from the house are working.

And that's good.

We are the nieces of the house.

You must do our share of the work.

- Where are you going with that? - I'm taking it home.

I'm going to cook it.

I'm not here to fight.

Put it down! We need it.

You're hitting your "mother"?

You're not taking the fish.

She's too fond of fighting

May the good Lord show them the way.

May they move forward.

We wish them

all the best.

You have enough there.

Help me!

On the day of the ceremony,

the mother and father of the deceased come to collect their child.

The mother... The mother and the father come?

The two of them come to collect the child.

They come together?

They pick him up and take him away.

If you're close to death, it's your parents who come.

As if you were a child?

Yes, your mother will put you on her back like a child.

Your father will be in front, guiding you.

The Bangourans will accompany the dead person.

That's why we buy them a rooster.

If it's all white inside, it means the person was pure.

Is the ceremony just for my father?

No. The ceremony is for all the dead.

Come on, hurry up...

We're gathered here today...

for the wedding of James and Nour.

Love the subway controller suit!

You're so controlled!

Bravo for this magnificent Chanel gown!

Quality, quality!

Tell me Nour's best quality.

Nour is faithful.

We all are!

Tell me James' best quality.

My boy James can cook!

Let's go!

At night...

All cats look gray...

But James and Nour are full of color, and that fills us with happiness.

Happiness, happiness...

I can't hear you. Louder!

Go on, brother.

I can walk...

It's a miracle!

I can see!

You're free!

My brother! My brother!

Yes!

My brother! My brother!

Tell us...

Tell us James and Nour's best quality.

Benevolence!

Peace.

No problem.

Enjoyment.

All that's good. Coolness.

That's what we pray for.

I want a dress like that

- Like hers? - Exactly the same.

What for?

To wear.

- How old are you? - 17.

You're really 17?

- You were born in. - 2006.

- I didn't notice... They're pretty. - Yeah.

They're Mom's.

Does she know?

- Are you sure? - Yeah.

What do you make of the bride?

- She looks nice. - Just "nice"?

- Pretty. - Very pretty.

Yeah.

Can I bug you a bit now?

Take it easy.

Think you'd look good in that dress?

- No? - No.

See those kids over there?

Pierre's daughter?

They're calling your father's spirit.

They're calling him?

I ask you to protect everyone.

So that everything goes well.

Hold the mouth closed.

Don't let it cry.

Hold its mouth closed.

I ask the spirits to reconcile me with my children

so they will get along well with me and the whole family.

That's my daily prayer.

Peace to everyone.

And if I die, I want the funeral ceremony done right.

And don't cry over my death, I am old enough to leave.

At home, you're there to work, that's all.

- Being a woman makes you a servant? - Yes.

You're the servant.

You do everything for him... Except bathe him.

I'm sorry, but that's terrible.

It's terrible.

I shouldn't laugh, I know...

All that's left is to take a sponge and give him his bath.

You'd still be doing the "laundry".

You should punch him instead.

Don't wash him, punch him.

A good punch.

Or use a whip.

You hit him good.

And he'll punch you to the floor.

If you dare to hit him,

like you do over there, with a slap...

He'll hit you until you're numb

and then take you back to your mother's house.

If you're late bringing his food, he'll hit you.

Tell Gloria how even when you're pregnant

you still have to work in the fields.

You work right up until you go into labor,

and only then can you rest.

Some women give birth on their way home.

That's what we do here, nothing else.

There are some men who treat women with respect...

And treat them properly.

Yes, there are.

But there aren't many!

- That's over now. - It's finished.

All that stuff... is over.

Don't let them do it anymore.

Are you OK?

Lift your feet.

Yes.

I made beautiful children,

and grandchildren.

And...

I'm exhausted.

I'm tired. People looked at me the wrong way.

I don't speak French that well.

And when you don't speak it well,

people assume you're...

nothing at all.

But we... Where I am right now,

there are things... I try to forgive.

I try to let go.

But certain things I can't erase from my heart.

It is said that men become nicer with age

and women become angry.

When grandchildren come along, the men are suddenly nice.

So that makes me an angry woman

because I have to do everything.

It's no wonder I'm a little angry.

He doesn't do anything, it's not the same for him.

People think that having children and grandchildren

should be enough for us.

But sometimes our hearts ache.

Ibara was a hard worker

He's lying down and resting now

Hello, Amalia.

Hello.

I've arrived...

Anybody home?

What's the matter?

I'm telling you I've arrived.

Where are you?

- Where are you? - We're here.

Leave her alone!

Anybody home?

We're here!

Don't touch her.

Jean...

Nicolas.

Where are you?

I'm here.

Gloria, where are you?

- Diminga? - I'm here.

- Pierre? - I'm here.

I've arrived.

What's the matter?

I've worked a lot for this house.

I've worked a lot for the house, a lot, a lot, a lot...

Until I was exhausted.

Give the guests rice, so they can eat well.

Who are you?

Give them something to eat and drink!

Who is talking to us?

Tell us your name?

What are you called?

It's me, Louis.

Ah, that's right, he was a real hard worker.

From a young age, even as a child,

he worked for this house.

Even after he left,

and up until his death.

Let everybody feast.

Tell them to bring the alcohol.

We didn't know it, but we were wrong.

You mustn't punish your children.

If they make a mistake, you must forgive.

If they come to apologize, you must forgive.

We have heard your message.

We must now eat, drink and celebrate.

We are going to enjoy ourselves.

I'm so glad.

I'm very happy about what you have just done.

I'm very happy.

What you've done has made me very happy.

May God give you peace.

We must do it together.

We're going now.

He's gone.

Thank you. Thank you, my daughter...

It's very complicated.

We've been made to believe that our animistic beliefs

are evil.

For me, believing that the dead are all around us...

That isn't...

But in today's world, even here in Africa,

many young people are completely disconnected from that.

I don't know if people will be able to see it the way you want them to.

Because it's powerful.

It can also seem like

a kind of fair, where you show...

extraordinary people.

Sometimes, when you talk about certain things,

people think you are...

weird.

It depends who's watching.

To be worthy, you have to love yourself.

You have to know yourself

Some people don't love themselves enough,

or know themselves enough, to have that level of dignity.

Having said that, I only have one child.

I'm entrusting her to a man.

I want to know who he is,

what he's going to give her, and I don't mean material things.

How he'll accompany her through life.

That's much more important than the ceremony,

the party afterwards, the venue, or the wedding cake...

I'm entrusting her to a man.

That man has to be worthy of my daughter.

Because she's a good person.

Good evening.

What time do you call this?

I thought you might be a little tense.

So I decided not to warn you.

Figured you'd be more pleased to see me.

But I'm glad to be here.

It's beautiful.

- The place is beautiful. - Yes.

Do you know everyone here?

Pretty much.

Is it the whole family?

Most of it.

And some you haven't seen for a long time?

- Some of them. - Yeah?

I don't know anybody, but it's OK

I'm fine with that.

Honestly.

Go ahead, if you want to mingle.

I'm here, I'm fine.

See you later.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

François.

Slimane.

I'm a friend.

So am I.

From way back?

Since...

We were 20.

- Really? - Yeah.

Hello.

She's...

She's fulfilled.

Do you think so?

- Today? - Yeah.

Is she happy?

- Is she happy? - Yes.

She sure is.

She's glowing.

Because you know her better than me.

I don't know...

If you were 20 when you met, you know her better.

Right.

I only met her recently.

- Cheers, Pierre, was it? - François.

François!

Monsieur Slimane.

- How are you? - And you?

It's been a while.

- A long time. - Yes.

Why is the champagne warm?

Is the fridge broken?

Do I detect a bit of tension?

- No. Why? - I dunno...

One might think... Just asking.

- What's that look? - What?

- I don't know. - Nothing.

I think you have some news for me.

I have news for you?

We always have things to tell each other.

You got anything to tell me?

I'm delighted the wedding is going well.

- We're having a great time. - Yeah.

- So that's all... - OK.

- And? - I'm really happy.

It's just that, earlier, I saw...

I saw this gentleman just walking around...

I don't know... He looked relaxed.

Yeah, he's more relaxed than I am.

- A lot more than me. - He is?

So what's going on there?

- How did that happen? - Is it going well?

Listen...

We're still getting to know each other.

You mean mentally, or has there already been...

- Convergence? Kissing... - We're adults.

- There's been convergence. - There has...

OK. You don't give much away.

But convergence...

- He's digging! - Cutaneously?

- Epidermally. - Epidermally. Yes?

Anyway, you don't seem to be against it.

It looks good, he seems nice...

Looking at you now, you look well.

"Well"? I don't know.

I don't know.

I've told you to stop drinking. But you refuse.

It destroys your body. Look at you...

A good man has to respect himself.

If people see you drinking all the time,

you'll get labelled as the kind of man

who doesn't work and who doesn't do anything.

He's young.

You need to get to work and provide for your family.

You can have fun, but you've got to work.

Guys here want to work, but there are no jobs.

There's nothing to do here, so I sleep all day long

and then I go to see my friends.

If you don't have a job, you just hang around

drinking and talking.

But it doesn't mean we don't work.

If I get a job, I'll stop drinking.

There's nobody left here.

They're here now, but tomorrow they'll leave.

I'm the only one left.

I want two men, but four could work too.

I can have two, but I will hide one.

As you serve the meal, check if they have already eaten.

Pass the plate.

- The food? - Yes.

- To eat? - To serve it.

I refuse.

Don't insist, I'm not giving it to you.

I refuse.

- She's already taken it. - Let her carry it.

You can take it.

- I refuse. - Give me the plate, please.

- Please. - OK, I'll give it to you. Go on.

Go ahead.

Where? Over there?

You OK?

I'm tired.

We're almost there.

Only two days left. You'll be fine.

The hardest part is over.

How long ago did he start grilling?

Louis, for God's sake, hurry up.

- Move! You're too slow. - It's you! You talk too much.

Are you with me?

You won't let go of my hand?

I won't.

I won't let go either.

We've leapt.

Into space.

We're falling.

Falling...

We're falling.

Falling...

I want you.

Is everybody OK?

All good?

Perfect.

Oh, my gosh! Look who's here!

- It's me... - I don't believe it!

- How are you, cousin? - Calypso.

Nice to meet you.

I'm Charlotte.

How are you?

- Good. - Well, it's visible!

You've met Calypso.

No room for doubt.

- So what do you think? - You're due soon?

- Very soon. - Three weeks.

Boy or a girl?

- We don't know. - A surprise.

Uncle David!

My nephew!

- Say hi to your new auntie. - Hello.

I'm Calypso.

- A baby! - Yes, it's a baby.

- Are you happy? - Yes.

- Long time no see! - Hello, Antoine.

- Damn! Antoine... - It's great that you came.

How could I miss this?

Haven't you two met?

I've heard a lot about you...

- Good things, I hope. - Yes!

- We'll do the same. - No, better.

- We'll be by the sea. Right.

Let's mingle.

Hi, guys. How are you?

You good?

- Yes, and you? - We're improvising.

- Send us news sometimes. - I do.

- What's become of you? - A nice guy!

I'm a good man now.

And it feels good.

A girl or a boy?

We don't know yet. Chef's surprise.

- A surprise? - From the chef.

And given the chef, it'll be a masterpiece.

- You think? - He better!

- With you, it's bound to be. - Stop...

Let's go see my mom.

- See you later. - See you, guys.

Good evening!

Hello, my Manjak family!

How are you?

All good?

Hello, Mom.

It's me, it's me...

- How are you all? - Good.

Meet my future wife and baby. Another Manjak is coming.

Hello, Mom.

May I introduce you to my girlfriend?

Mom?

Okay...

Hello, Manjako!

Have a nice evening.

- Let's go. - OK, darling?

Families can be complicated.

Hello.

Come... This is someone very important to me.

- David? - My big sister.

- Are you OK, Annik? - I'm not sure.

Hug me, you'll feel better.

- I missed you. - Who's she?

"She" is your new sister-in-law.

Good of you to tell me!

This is Calypso.

- Calypso? Nice to meet you. - Original, isn't it?

Well, since everyone asked...

I didn't ask.

But your eyes did.

I can't not see it.

So tell me...

Three weeks? Two weeks?

Three weeks.

So... Congratulations, first of all.

Thank you.

And welcome to the family.

Can I just borrow him for a sec?

- Sure. - We won't be far away.

- Hello, bro. - All right?

Cool.

- Hadn't you noticed? - What?

Your little bro's here.

- Do I get a hug? - Yeah.

Hang on.

I missed you too, bro...

- OK, that's a bit too much. - But it's true.

- So all good? - Yeah, all good.

Wait, my girl's around here.

You see, I'm in love.

This is my big brother, Pierrot.

- Nice to meet you. - The patriarch.

I've heard a lot about you.

Only good things.

Only good?

- Tell him. - Yes.

Only nice things.

- But... - Are you OK?

No, I don't think I am.

Surprised?

Yes, I am.

It's a nice surprise.

It's not a surprise.

Come on... It's life.

I have nothing against you...

She's adorable.

She's adorable, she seems very intelligent.

But perhaps there's a limit to your intelligence.

- What does that mean? - Forget it.

Seriously, though... What is all this?

- Just happiness. - Happiness?

- I'm back... - I'm shocked.

- I'm shocked. - But happy?

Don't worry, it's nice to meet you anyway.

- Seriously... - Thanks, bro.

- But... - It's life.

It was a shock.

Hey, cousin!

See you soon. And sorry.

Good luck. I'll be thinking of you.

- You OK? - Not at all.

- I can tell. - Me too.

- I'll just collapse then. - Relax.

Yes, better to relax.

Remember I told you about my little Lou?

- Yes. - Now he's big Lou.

- Louis. - Louis? Right.

- And you are...? - Calypso.

- Calypso? Nice to meet you. - Yes.

Wait, I saved the best for last.

My big brother Bernard.

Nice to meet you.

My darling niece.

- You OK, Emma? - Yeah. And you?

Come here...

Look what's in there.

And the big little guy.

Neither little, nor big, just me.

- All good? - Yeah.

All good, little bro?

So what's that look for?

- Like I owe you money... - No, you're funny.

You show up like this with your pregnant girlfriend...

How should I show up?

- You could've called. - Don't be upset.

I'm not.

- What happened while I was gone? - Nothing.

- You could've called me to check in. - True.

But where I was, it wasn't easy to call.

You could've called too.

- Life choices. - Yes, and I accept them.

Anyway, it would be nice if we could talk.

OK, take your hand off me.

Take your hand off me.

Don't be like that.

- Calm down. - Let go of me.

Calm down.

Why are you playing the tough guy?

See you.

- It's only small. - Yeah...

See it?

Is it coming?

Is it out?

I don't know why I'm worried.

I don't know what's going to happen.

Be our guide for the ceremony.

We'll follow you.

Louis will guide us

at the interrogation ceremony known as Ushoss.

Ushoss?

I never heard of that.

The day of Ushoss is the day of truth.

You'll know everything that day.

You will communicate with your father.

He will tell you what you must do.

You're not married...

You're beautiful and you're not married.

You're more beautiful.

Marriage isn't a question of beauty.

It's a question of luck.

Just luck. Nothing more.

Marriage is complicated.

- Are you tired? - If you really want...

It's a job.

You don't have a choice, you just have to look for it.

If you worry too much, you won't be able to commit.

When you're married,

you'll see.

Married or not, you have to get on with your partner.

It's as simple as that.

These days,

marriage doesn't guarantee anything.

Married or not married, it's the same thing.

It's all the same.

Very nice!

I'm very happy.

We need to seat people. Can I leave it to you?

Really beautiful.

- Was it the kids' idea? - They chose it.

Oh lé lé! Oh la la!

What just happened?

They just got married.

Oh lé lé! Oh la la!

What just happened?

They just got married.

Louis Mendy...

Louis Mendy, I pour for you.

Help us.

Nothing but peace.

This is the cemetery.

- The village cemetery? - Yes.

This was the old road, before colonization.

This was the old route to the city?

- Yes, before the colonists - OK

- And you know it by heart? - Yes, I know it well.

I walked this road three times a day.

- Are you tired? - No, I'm fine.

- And you? - I'm OK.

- You want to stop? - No, it's fine.

MEMORIAL TO SLAVERY AND THE SLAVE TRADE

They came here.

First, the Whites came,

without making a war.

And they left.

Then they came back with guns.

That's when they started the war.

They destroyed all the villages.

They killed many people here

After the war, they stayed and colonized all the Blacks.

They invaded all the villages and started giving orders.

The men dug sand and the women carried it.

For the construction of a road

from the port.

It was forced labor.

If you refused, they beat you.

That's how people lived, like slaves

In '58, Kankoila started calling us to meetings.

The year my second child was born.

We held meetings until 1961.

He attacked the San Domingo camp.

But unfortunately,

they didn't have enough automatic weapons.

That was also why Amilcar Cabral was forced to...

Yes, Auntie. I'm just...

My father was in the bush

on a mission to collect weapons

for the PAIGC

When they went to Kombongor,

They came across an ambush and the Whites' mines

Jon stepped on a mine.

He cried out, "Uncle, I stepped on a mine.

My leg's gone!"

My father couldn't just leave him.

He ran to help him.

The Portuguese had laid mines everywhere.

When my father went back for him,

another mine exploded and he was killed instantly.

Many brothers and sisters died.

Helicopters were firing at us from the sea.

That's how our brother Joachim

lost his life.

My brother Armando was shot in the neck by a helicopter gunner.

One bullet in the neck, another in his head.

Have you told your children this story?

No, I haven't told my children this story.

It's something you bury in your heart.

They know we took part in the fight for national liberation,

but not about the hardships.

This is the first time I've told that story.

Is that you, Papa?

Are you all right?

What can I get you?

Would you like a drink?

Some wine?

Some whisky?

Dad, do you want to drink?

Gloria will get a bottle.

Where's Gloria?

She's here.

Give her the bottle.

Take the bottle and open it!

Who has the bottle?

It's here.

Fill this and pour it behind you.

That's fine.

Gloria, give him a drink.

Pour, Gloria.

Go ahead

Under the Butchegal.

In there.

That's perfect.

Drink a little.

Daddy, did you come to greet us?

We're very happy.

Are you happy

We've danced with the other women

and given them some money.

Did you see us?

We're all fine.

Louis...

Go find the little Louis.

Where's the bottle?

My namesake, I'm very happy.

Nothing but peace.

Go behind.

Nothing but peace.

That's good.

Get some rest.

No meetings planned...

Empty pockets, but we party 'til dawn!

One thing's for sure, we're here!

God protects us, sooner or later.

- Did you fall? - I fell!

Watch out,

the bride's about to cut the cake!

Your guy seems great.

Yeah, I think he's all right.

I'm not marrying him!

No, but he's classy.

- I like him. - Handsome, elegant...

He talked to me... I like him.

He makes an effort.

He likes to surprise himself.

That's good.

That's great. So it's going well?

Very well.

You're always with...

Men.

Yes, men...

What? Men kind of like you?

Yes, with White guys.

We could say that, no?

You seem surprised.

He can be nice...

He's not on home turf.

With White girls, you're at their beck and call.

With us, you're more like... Feet up on the table,

"Honey, move, I can't see the TV!"

I say that, but I don't care.

It doesn't feel like it.

Then why are you getting angry?

You make me angry.

Why do you say that?

Because you piss me off!

Why?

He wants to know why?

Yes, why?

Just kidding.

We're joking, right?

- It's not funny. - Isn't it?

- No. - Then we won't laugh.

You can't always stereotype people.

The Arab, the Black man...

As if they were all the same.

I'm not stereotyping anybody.

Stereotyping my ass! OK?

Black... White... you... us...

It's a nice, polite way of not saying "you".

Because the one I'm talking about is you.

The asshole I'm talking about...

is you.

- Yes. - That's all.

What a mess.

- Who are you talking about? - I'm kidding.

What are you talking about?

Why do you pretend you don't understand?

I need to hear the words.

Say them and I'll understand.

We didn't used to talk so much.

It's called maturity.

- Maturity is talking? - Expressing yourself.

Love someone other than you.

It'll be good for you and the whole planet.

I swear. Give it a try.

That's fairly direct.

You know,

I would've done it.

If you'd stopped looking at other people looking at you.

Looking at us.

I loved you so much.

Now I'm happy.

OK, let me see.

It hardly shows.

It's early days.

But, hey...

I got ash on you.

It doesn't show at all.

I'm in pain...

I'm suffering...

A little too much.

François...

How does it go?

Leave him alone.

Who hurt you like that?

See you later.

Don't be mad.

Give me a hug.

- That's it, my brother. - OK, I hugged you.

- Let me go. - Come on...

Let go of me! Are you crazy?

Let go!

It's him!

David, drop it.

It's OK.

It's nothing! What do you want?

What are you gonna do?

Get off me!

Lil' Lou, I'm talking to you!

I'm not afraid of you!

What? Go on, hit me!

Jean, he should respect you...

Who the hell are you?

Sit down.

The ceremony's over. It's time for the Uchoss.

We'll summon the Butchegal.

We'll find out what Louis died of.

We'll see if he did something wrong or not.

Let's get started.

Louis?

Is that you in the Butchegal?

Today is the Uchoss.

As tradition dictates,

I'm going to ask you questions.

Sometimes we hurt each other.

Did you ever steal from anyone?

You didn't take anything?

And at home,

where we were all born?

Did you hurt anyone?

Did you cause harm?

You didn't hurt anyone?

Did you touch someone's child?

And your death?

Was it God?

Was it illness?

I'm happy.

He died of disease.

That says it all.

It's over

Did you hear Salania?

Can you confirm it?

The children heard it.

Tell the children to come.

The children are here.

Now, whoever wants to speak may speak.

We're all very happy.

- Gloria, did you hear your father? - I did.

What do you want to say now?

I'm very happy.

I'm at peace.

My father was a good person. Clean.

It's OK, I'm happy.

- Diminga? - I heard too.

My heart is not ready to speak.

You all heard.

We heard.

Shall I pour here?

Boys, come pour over here.

Are we done?

Do you want to go to lie down?

Go and rest in peace.

Let's change his position.

That's better.

A little to the left, facing the front door.

There. That's good.

There you are, by the door.

Now you're the owners of the house.

Don't stop, fill the calabash.

Pour it all, don't leave any inside.

But you never call after you leave.

You don't think about us until you return.

When you're here, we say: "Our father is home."

We only call when we really need you.

It would be good for the development of the village.

We are growing in numbers. May we remain united.

So we can join forces

and move forward together...

- It's good here too. - I want to leave.

Bissau is also good.

Portugal...

And New York.

Have you heard of New York?

It's in America.

Give me the cloth.

We had a fight.

My oil is getting hot.

I didn't hear.

Move over.

Keep sorting like this...