Rafiki

Directed by Wanuri Kahiu
Wanuri Kahiu
Film Movement
2018
83 Minutes
Kenya
English, Swahili
Drama, LGBTQIA2S+, Black Cinema
Not Rated
Screening Formats:
Blu-ray, DCP, Proludio, CineConductor
Aspect Ratio: 2.40:1
Sound: 5.1 surround and 2.0 stereo
Theatrical booking
Erin Farrell
erin@filmmovement.com
Festival and non-theatrical booking
Erin Farrell
erin@filmmovement.com
Materials and print traffic
Erin Farrell
erin@filmmovement.com

Synopsis

Bursting with the colorful street style & music of Nairobi’s vibrant youth culture, RAFIKI is a tender love story between two young women in a country that still criminalizes homosexuality. Kena and Ziki have long been told that “good Kenyan girls become good Kenyan wives” - but they yearn for something more. Despite the political rivalry between their families, the girls encourage each other to pursue their dreams in a conservative society. When love blossoms between them, Kena and Ziki must choose between happiness and safety.

Initially banned in Kenya for its positive portrayal of queer romance, RAFIKI won a landmark supreme court case chipping away at Kenyan anti-LGBT legislation. Featuring remarkable performances by newcomers Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva, RAFIKI is a hip tale of first love “reminiscent of the early work of Spike Lee” (Screen Daily) that’s “impossible not to celebrate” (Variety)!

Hi Res Photos