Yeelen
1987 · Movie · NR · 105 min · ★ 6.6 · 85% critics
In a pre-colonial African setting, a young man with mystical gifts sets out on a dangerous journey to seek help against his powerful father. The story unfolds like a mythic quest, blending family conflict, spiritual traditions, and a deep connection to the land.
Also known as Brightness
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Details
- Years
- 1987
- Release date
- 1987-07-01
- Language
- BM
- Rated
- NR
- Runtime
- 105 min
- Critic score
- 85/100
- TMDB rating
- 6.6/10 (75 votes)
About
You may like this if you enjoy mythic, slow-burning journeys and non-Western storytelling with a dreamlike feel, somewhere between Hanussen and Highlander: The Series; Not for you if you want a fast, clearly explained plot or need to avoid animal harm.
Pros: hypnotic visuals; rich cultural setting; mythic, compelling atmosphere | Cons: very slow pace; abstract storytelling; upsetting animal cruelty
Themes
- magic
- africa
- sorcerer
- based on myths, legends or folklore
- tribal customs
- tribal people
Cast & crew
- IK
Issiaka Kane
as Niankoro, the Son
- BK
Balla Moussa Keita
as Rouma Boll, the Fulani King
- AS
Aoua Sangare
as Attou, the Young Fulani Woman
- IS
Ismaila Sarr
as Bofing, the Uncle
- NS
Niamanto Sanogo
as Soma / Djigui
- ST
Soumba Traore
as Mah, the Mother
- KS
Koke Sangare
as The Chief of Komo
- YC
Youssouf Tenin Cissé
as Attou's Little Boy
- SD
Sidi Diallo
- BD
Bremira Dumbla
Directed by Souleymane Cissé