Kirikou And The Sorceress

Told in a very simple style, using traditional animation techniques, Kirikou and the Sorceress recites a southern African legend about a very small boy whose intelligence, determination and fleet feet carry him forward on a quest to save his village. Though Hollywood children's films may be louder, brighter, and technically more sophisticated, few have such strong, assured stories. This will appeal to children who like to read and who have an interest in mythology. There's also some beautiful artwork. The depiction of the sorceress' fetishes is particularly interesting, their unnatural mechanical movement giving them a real creepiness. These features serve to make the film interesting to an adult audience.

Although the traditional ending of this story has been altered to make it more comfortable and more satisfying for a youthful audience, it does latterly move away from childhood issues, which may disappoint. Parents who feel uncomfortable discussing issues related to growing up may wish to keep their children away, as may those likely to be offended by the bare breasts of the African women, especially as the sorceress' are rather spectacularly displayed. Otherwise, there are elements here which would not have been out of place in an early Disney animation; cute animal friends, a strong sense of adventure, and a brave and charming hero who is still small enough to need a hug and a nap from time to time. Kirikou and the Sorceress is a rare treat.