Ceddo

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William L Ceddo is an interesting depiction of cultural clash - the traditions of Senegal contending against both the invading militant nature of Islam, and the presence of Western nations, represented both by a duality - the established, quieter Christian sects (which have less of the 'convert-or-die' elements given their longevity in the region) and their more impactful counterparts - merchants that seek profit through the selling of weapons and the exchange of slaves. It touches deeply on the methods of assimilation, both quietly and through force. Really unexpected soundtrack, as well; alongside the instrumentals, I was surprised to find that African American spiritual hymns had been used in more than one instance. Sembène clearly delivers a film that has more thematic complexity than might be expected in its distinct treatment of external influences that began to change the traditional political and religious structure of Africa. However, the film is also exceptionally long for its actual content, the majority of the content is traditionally structured meetings, the technical limitations are rather evident, and the acting is tough to get through at times. Well-realized in many ways, tough to enjoy in others, but certainly one of the great early pieces of culturally introspective from an African film industry that was just beginning to find both its own feet and an international audience. (3/5) Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 08/01/21 Full Review s r 1001 movies to see before you die. This was certainly original and gave the perspective of Africa coming to terms with Islam and other beliefs. It was a bit tedious though. It was on Youtube. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 03/31/23 Full Review Audience Member Set sometime in the past 17th or 18th century, Ceddo refers to a group of Africans who refuse to become Islamic like their king. They have kidnapped and hold hostage the king's daughter to help persuade him from persecuting the people who resist becoming Islamic. Meanwhile the Imam continually spouts out that anyone not with us is against us and wages a Holy War. One of the Ceddo asks "Is religion worth a man's life?" which tends to be the theme in the film. The Ceddo wish to continue their way of life as they have over the years. However, the Islamic group refuses this requiring all Ceddo to become Islamic and adhere to their religious tenets. Meanwhile, there is a white Christian minister also among the villagers as well as a white trader who is all to happy to provide arms in return to slaves. A well observed portrait of history by Africa's finest filmmaker. The film does succumb to using badly dated 70s music that is not suited to the film (Sembene was seemingly trying to link the past being depicted in the film with more modern music, thus stating how similar the two times are). Nevertheless, Sembene's straightforward storytelling and camerawork demonstrate his points clearly. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/09/23 Full Review Audience Member An African village is torn between Islam and those with traditional beliefs. Sembene weaves a complex and fascinating tale, loaded with symbolism and metaphor. The filmmaking craft is not especially dazzling, but it's done quite capably, and the incongruous score is the only sour note. The simple approach to the material allows the viewer to become fully immersed in the story, and it's a very compelling situation. Memorable and satisfying. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/17/23 Full Review walter m [font=Century Gothic]"Ceddo" starts with Princess Dior(Tabara N'Diaye) being kidnapped by a group of escaped slaves with the hope that they will not be forcibly converted to Islam. Meanwhile back at the village, instead of quick and resolute action to rescue her, there is debate now that the king(Makhouredia Gueye) has fallen under the sway of an Iman(Goure) and converted. The old rules no longer apply. So while Madir(Moustapha Yade) can marry Dior, he cannot succeed the king since Islam frowns upon matriarchy. He is so incensed that he renounces Islam and trades in a servant girl for a jug of wine which he consumes in front of everybody.[/font] [font=Century Gothic]"Ceddo" is an intelligent allegory from Ousmane Sembene about what it means to be truly free. The film is set in the colonial era of Senegal, when not only Islam was making inroads but also France, represented by the slave trade and a Catholic priest who simply watches while dreaming of future glory. All of this outside influence deeply divides the kingdom.(In Sembene's "Faat-Kine," there is peaceful coexistence between religions in modern day Senegal.) So, as the conflict continues on the home front, Dior's plight is occasionally forgotten in the process.[/font] Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 03/31/23 Full Review Read all reviews

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