African Giants

Embarking on what feels like a deeply personal film, Omar S Kamara plunges for the first time into feature filmmaking, exploring brotherhood and African identity. His protagonists, two brothers of Sierra-Leonean descent, have much to say but little to disclose. Through minimalist filmmaking, the director delves into the depths of their shared history, unveiling untold truths and unresolved emotions. Heavy on nuanced dialogue, this small-scale cinematic gem has a lot of genuine heart, giving it an endearing authenticity.

Alhaji (Dillon Daniel Mutyaba) lives in Los Angeles, trying to break into the acting world. When he receives a visit from Sheku (Omete Anassi), his younger brother, he plans the ideal weekend for their time together. There's even cause for celebration as the younger sibling, a law student, has just obtained a lucrative internship offer. But something is off. Hesitant gestures and odd glances signal the following days have more in store than drinking, partying and video games. As it becomes apparent these brothers haven't had a heart-to-heart in a while, a tangible tension gradually mounts.

Kamara employs a simplistic style of filmmaking, focusing on the two brothers who dominate the narrative. Over four days, the siblings discuss their upbringing in an African household and quickly discover their contrasting opinions on heritage and fulfilment. Some moments feel artificial at times but the central performances resonate with palpable chemistry, embodying the tension of two brothers who have difficulty understanding each other’s points of view.

Between each day, the first-time feature director inserts oneiric scenes in which the two men offer glimpses into their upbringing and their parents. The flickering lights and the meditatively slow camera work make for a welcomed departure from the overall visual modesty of the debut. This bold stylistic choice, paired with the brothers' voices, highlights some families' inclination to leave matters unspoken - words that, once uttered, arrive too late.

While it may lack refinement in its production, Artificial Giants compensates with a robust identity. The two brothers look inwardly to find answers to their disagreement, uncovering how their different paths came to be. Alhaji, outspoken and indignant, holds a grudge against his disapproving father for not supporting his artistic endeavour. Meanwhile, Sheku, timid in nature, hides a secret that, if exposed, could further strain his relationship with his brother. Paired with the dream-like scenes, the protagonists' heated exchange makes a compelling point about how parental relationships shape our understanding of cultural inheritance and influence how we see ourselves as we age.

As the youngest in my family, African Giants feels genuinely intimate to me. It navigates the sometimes complex brotherly relationship, understanding that even a casual basketball game can fuel a growing sibling rivalry. The two leads click, creating a tension that synchronises with the unpleasant familial baggage they're exploring. The result of their back and forth is a deep exploration of brotherhood which highlights that sometimes, your sibling is the right person to confide in.