35 AMAZING African Movies Well Worth The Watch

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Earlier than going to Africa, studying just a little in regards to the continent is important. Among the finest methods to try this earlier than is to observe some motion pictures about Africa! From the lions within the Serengeti to a number of the worst civil wars on the continent, listed here are my favourite African motion pictures to observe earlier than going.

Finest Motion pictures About Africa

The Lion King

Set within the Savannah (Possible Kenya or Tanzania)

I grew up within the 90s, and I can’t consider the animals in Africa with out considering of the Lion King. That is simply probably the greatest motion pictures set in Africa. If you happen to haven’t seen this film but, it is advisable cease studying proper this second and get on Amazon, hop on Disney Plus, or go about your regular method of accessing motion pictures and watch this tonight.

I imply, cmon that opening scene? “NA SEE WANG YA” and Simba’s christening! I can’t even watch the primary 5 minutes and not using a tear in my eye. This film about Africa is perpetually liked, and despite the fact that it’s animated, it reveals the fantastic thing about a few of these international locations.

Gorillas within the Mist

Set in Rwanda

Certainly one of my favourite motion pictures about Africa that’s nonetheless very related at present. Seeing the mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda has been excessive on my record for years (UPDATE: We checked that off), however I by no means knew your entire story behind these stunning creatures. So when you’re off gorilla trekking in both Uganda, Rwanda, or DRC we suggest watching this film first.

Meet Dian Fossey, an American primatologist that devoted her life to finding out the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Gorillas within the Mist, starring the fabulous Sigourney Weaver, is an 80’s film documenting Dian’s struggles and achievements whereas in Africa.

Beasts of No Nation

No named setting

A Netflix unique film garnered worldwide recognition and gained many awards. Beasts of No Nation takes place in an unnamed West African nation and follows a younger boy who loses his household to a brutal struggle.

He’s quickly adopted as a toddler soldier right into a rising insurgent group. Though the movie stays ambiguous in regards to the location, it portrays the horrors the navy use of kids has on younger boys’ lives in Africa. To today, this isn’t solely probably the greatest motion pictures about Africa on Netflix however probably the greatest motion pictures on the entire platform.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

Set in Malawi

This is among the finest African motion pictures based mostly on precise occasions in Africa. I lately noticed this pop up on my Netflix options, and seeing that it was directed by certainly one of my favourite actors, Chiwetel Ejiofor, I knew I needed to watch it. Inside the first jiffy, I used to be fully mesmerized because the scenes introduced me again to our time in Malawi.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is based mostly on the identical e-book by William Kamkwamba, who can also be the movie’s primary topic. Kamkwamba lives in a rural Malawian village that’s experiencing a big drought. Wanting to avoid wasting his household and village from hunger and demise, he devises a plan to construct a windmill and energy a water pump to avoid wasting the land.

Virunga

Set within the Democratic Republic of Congo

One other Netflix unique, this documentary focuses on conserving the Virunga Nationwide Park within the Democratic Republic of Congo. Or no less than that’s how the documentary begins till the filmmakers and park rangers discover themselves embroiled in a civil struggle.

The movie showcases heart-stopping footage as conservationists work to guard the park, which is house to a number of the world’s final mountain gorillas.

Lodge Rwanda

Set in Rwanda

Known as the “African Schindler’s Record,” this movie is an absolute must-watch for anybody wanting to observe motion pictures about Africa. It’s deeply saddening to keep in mind that simply 30 years in the past, there was a genocide taking place in Rwanda, with the ethnic Tutsi being the victims of the Hutu militia, killing off 20% of the Rwandan inhabitants!

That is the true story of Paul Rusesabagina, who saved over 1,200 refugees by hiding them in a resort he managed. If you’re off to Rwanda, you’ll indubitably be reminded of this genocide and this film does an amazing job at organising the scene of what really occurred.

It’s a disgrace that Paul Rusesabagina was lured again to Rwanda from the US (the place he’s a resident), and kidnapped in 2020. He has since been sentenced to 25 years for terrorism by a Rwandan court docket. Supporters referred to as a sham trial, and the battle to free him is way from over.

Pores and skin

Set in South Africa

Starring Sophie Okonedo, the feminine lead in Lodge Rwanda above is a terrific biographical film about Sandra Laing. Among the finest motion pictures based mostly on precise occasions in Africa.

Sandra is a South African lady born to white mother and father; she was then categorized as “coloured” attributable to atavism throughout apartheid.

The movie follows Sandra and her household, who’re divided by the colour of their pores and skin. It’s a captivating story that reveals a deeper have a look at apartheid South Africa.

The Colour of Friendship

Set within the USA and South Africa

One other film is about apartheid in South Africa and its results. I watched this film as a younger lady on the Disney Channel, and it by no means left my thoughts. It paints an image of apartheid within the Seventies and the way it impacts two younger women in two separate international locations.

All through the movie, the 2 should overcome their variations. I like this film because it’s appropriate for youngsters with vital messaging. In case you have Disney Plus, you’ll be capable of discover this movie there!

The Fixed Gardener

Set in Kenya

This was in my Netflix queue perpetually and is now certainly one of my favourite thriller motion pictures set in Africa. Though I like Ralph Fiennes, I by no means introduced myself to observe it. I lately sat down to observe this political thriller and LOVED it and have since learn the e-book and rewatched the movie many occasions.

Rachel Weisz and Ralph Fiennes are an unlikely couple dwelling and dealing in Kenya. Tessa (Weisz) is a diehard Amnesty activist who’s uncovering massive secrets and techniques within the pharmaceutical trade. After her demise, her husband units out to find the reality.

What drew me extra in was that this film was loosely based mostly on a real story in Nigeria.

The English Affected person

Set in North Africa

This romantic drama was nominated for 12 Academy Awards in 1996 and featured younger Ralph Fiennes in his prime. Did I point out I like Ralph Fiennes? Set throughout WWII, The English Affected person tells the story of a widowed nurse caring for a severely burned affected person.

This injured man is understood solely as “The English Affected person” for his distinct English Accent and has an fascinating life story. It’s probably the greatest Hollywood motion pictures based mostly in Africa.

A United Kingdom

Set in Botswana

A United Kingdom is a movie based mostly on the true-life story of Seretse Khama, inheritor to the throne of Bechuanaland (now Botswana), and his romance with Ruth Williams Khama, a white English lady, post-WWII. The movie follows their courtship, eventual marriage, and the hardships they endured due to their racial variations in Bechuanaland and Southern Africa.

Seretse Khama turned the primary president of Botswana and, to today, is a well-loved determine in Botswana. Throughout his presidency, the nation underwent constructive social and financial adjustments. Their son, Ian Khama, was even lately the President of Botswana and was additionally beloved by the nation.

Mandela: A Lengthy Stroll to Freedom

Set in South Africa

This film about Africa relies on Mandela’s autobiography. A Lengthy Stroll to Freedom lends viewers a deeper understanding of the politics of South Africa.

This African film does an amazing job at showcasing historic occasions however nonetheless mixes in a little bit of Hollywood to maintain viewers engrossed within the story. Throughout our three months in South Africa, we noticed photos of the anti-apartheid revolutionary in all places. From statues and vital buildings to avenue names and avenue artwork, you may really see the affect of Mandela.

The Good Lie

Set in Sudan (Get a field of tissues for this African film!)

A feel-good film a couple of group of Sudanese siblings who escape the brutal Second Sudanese Civil Warfare that was a battle from 1983 to 2005. These brothers win a lottery to relocate in america, and the movie follows their integration into American tradition and takes audiences on a rollercoaster trip of feelings.

Tsotsi

Set in South Africa

Set within the Johannesburg slums, this movie follows Tsotsi. A younger avenue prison steals a automotive, finds a child within the backseat, and should navigate the night time with the new child. This movie obtained widespread important acclaim and gained the 2006 Academy Award for Finest International Language Movie! It was the primary South African movie ever to win this award!

I Dreamed of Africa

Set in Kenya

This movie didn’t deserve any academy awards, nevertheless it managed to get me enthusiastic about going to Africa and Kenya. The movie tells the true story of Kuki Gallman, an Italian lady who relocates to Africa to run a farm. It’s like Underneath the Tuscan Solar however set in Africa.

The movie is customized from Kuki’s memoir, I Dreamed of Africa, and is heartbreaking at occasions and uplifting at others. I beneficial studying each her reminiscences, I Dreamed of Africa and Night time of the Lions as they’re much higher than the film.

Half of a Yellow Solar

Set in Nigeria

One other certainly one of my favourite African motion pictures. Half of the Yellow Solar is a Nigerian movie that opens viewers’ eyes to a number of the terrifying atrocities of the Nigerian Civil Warfare. Interweaving two love tales, household betrayal, and an undiscovered thriller, this movie relies on the 2006 novel by African feminist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Casablanca

Set in Morocco

This is among the many motion pictures we watched in movie faculty, and it will be onerous for me to not point out it on this “motion pictures about Africa” record. Ranked as one of many best American movies of all time, this 1942 romance takes place in Casablanca, one of many largest cities in Morocco. Rick and Ilsa are star-crossed lovers in the course of the second world struggle.

The First Grader

Set in Kenya

If you happen to’re on the lookout for a tear-jerker film that takes place in Africa, I like to recommend this one. I can’t rely the variety of occasions I cried from disappointment and pleasure in The First Grader.

Telling the true story of Kimani Maruge, an 84-year-old Kenyan farmer that enrolled in elementary faculty in 2003 after the Kenyan authorities granted residents free common major training. As we speak, Maruge nonetheless holds the Guinness World Document for the oldest pupil in major faculty.

Madagascar

Set in Madagascar

If you happen to’re on the lookout for African motion pictures accessible to stream, one of many Madagascar movies is at all times sure to be there. I needed to throw this one in with so many critical movies on this record! Madagascar 1, 2, and three are a number of the funniest animated movies I’ve seen and have some sensible music and dance scenes from some very cheeky lemurs (I Prefer to Transfer it Transfer it!).

Madagascar tells the story of 4 zoo animals who escape Central Park and get stranded on the island of…Madagascar! You’ll giggle your method via this 90-minute movie with an all-star comedic solid.

Sembene!

Set in Senegal

It is a nice documentary film about Africa from a celebrated African filmmaker. Ousmane Sembene is taken into account the “father of African cinema,” has made many improbable motion pictures like Ceddo, Camp de Thiaroye, and Guelwaar. This documentary is in regards to the story of his life and is heartwarming and intriguing.

Final King of Scotland

Set in Uganda

One of many extra critically acclaimed movies on this record, The Final King of Scotland, is an intense thriller set in Seventies Uganda (not Scotland).

Forrest Whitaker provides a stellar efficiency as Idi Amin, the third Ugandan president, was closely criticized for human rights abuse. The movie reveals Amin’s harsh ruling from the eyes of his private doctor.

Blood Diamond

Set in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone went via an atrocious civil struggle simply 20 years in the past. This movie, that includes my boy Leo, follows one native fisherman’s gut-wrenching hardship in the course of the battle. It’s a wonderful African struggle film with a compelling storyline. Blood Diamond primarily focuses on simply that, a “blood diamond.”

Blood diamonds are the harvesting and mining of diamonds in struggle zones, bought by warlords to intermediaries to finance their wars. The diamonds are then labored into the authorized circulation of diamonds via a number of middlemen, and will finally find yourself on someones ring finger. Fortunately, the diamond trade is ready to stricter requirements now, however that also doesn’t imply the Blood Diamonds have been eradicated.

District 9

Set in South Africa

Motion pictures about Africa don’t get rather more entertaining than District 9. An alien species makes contact in Johannesburg and should stay there till they will repair their craft. The aliens, “prawns,” are then subjected to dwelling in horrible circumstances and ghettos, and face day by day discrimination. The movie could look like your typical Alien movie, however District 9 holds a a lot deeper that means than a bunch of invasive “Prawns.”

The South African director attracts on a lot of South Africa’s apartheid historical past, together with the notorious clearing of District Six in Cape City. The narrative extends to present points dealing with South Africa at present. It manages to do all of this whereas making a massively entertaining alien thriller.

Born Free

Set in Kenya

Born Free is probably probably the greatest African motion pictures of all time. That is the true story of the lives of Pleasure and George Adamson, who raised Elsa the Lionness after she was orphaned as a cub.

They raised her to maturity and launched her into the wild. The 1966 film set in Africa relies on Pleasure Adamson’s 1960 e-book below the identical identify, Born Free. If you’d like an inspiring feel-good story, this film is for you!

Out of Africa

Set in Kenya

Oh, Merryl Streep and Robert Redford, you each produced one nice African safari film collectively if you had been younger. Out of Africa is a movie set in colonial Africa and garnered seven Academy Awards, together with Finest Image. The movie follows the lifetime of Karen Blixen, who establishes a espresso plantation in Africa.

This is among the motion pictures on this record that portrays components of an African safari and relies on an autobiographical e-book of the identical identify that reveals Karen’s sophisticated life in Kenya, with a facet twist of a younger love affair with Robbie Purple.

The Burial of Kojo

Set in Ghana

Wow! The Burial of Kojo is a improbable African film shot completely in Ghana on a small finances. Even a number of the actors are first-timers! (However you’d by no means be capable of inform.

The movie follows Kojo, who’s left to die in an deserted gold mine whereas his household should discover him. It obtained 9 nominations on the Africa Film Academy Awards, successful two! The African movie is on the market on Netflix and is among the solely Ghanian movies on the streaming service.

Queen of Katwe

Set in Uganda

Chess is the escape from poverty for a younger Ugandan lady dwelling in Kampala. This film relies on precise occasions in Africa and tells of a woman defying the percentages and her story of changing into a prime chess champion. It is a must-watch film about Africa earlier than heading to Uganda!

Into the Okavango

Set in Botswana and Angola

This visually stunning Nat Geo documentary uncovers the reality in regards to the Okavango Delta water scarcity. This is among the planet’s final wetlands and various wildlife areas.

The expedition takes them 1500 miles throughout three African nations over 4 months. Apart from improbable truthful storytelling, you’ll additionally get beautiful visuals of Angola, Botswana, and Namibia.

The Gods Have to be Loopy

Set in South Africa

The Gods Have to be Loopy is the highest South African movie of all time. Though the story is ready in Botswana, this film tells the story of a rural village with little information of the skin world. At some point a glass bottle of coke falls from the sky, and the villagers take it as an indication from god. Solely a comedy can ensue from there!

7 Days in Entebbe

Set in Uganda

I had no thought about this historic occasion till watching this film about Africa. 7 Days in Entebbe is in regards to the true story of Operation Entebbe.

In 1976 terrorists hijacked Air France Flight 139 from Tel Aviv to Paris and held the passengers and crew hostage in Entebbe whereas demanding a ransom finish launch of 53 Palestinian prisoners. The federal government steps in, and nicely, until you already know the story, I can’t share anymore!

Tarzan

Set in Presumably Cameroon

We’re not completely positive the place Tarzan takes place, however it’s assumed it’s in Cameroon’s lush rainforests. There are various renditions of Tarzan, however my private favourite is the Disney model with all of the Phil Collins jams.

The Girl King

Set in Benin

Within the 1820s, this historic action-adventure African film unfolds, narrating the inspiring story of the Agojie, an all-female warrior unit that valiantly defended the esteemed West African kingdom of Dahomey in the course of the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries.

On the coronary heart of this epic, Viola Davis portrays a exceptional basic, entrusted with the pivotal process of coaching the subsequent era of warriors to bravely confront their adversaries on the battlefield. It provides a glimpse into what tribal West Africa was like, and naturally, reveals the brave tales of the one feminine military in fashionable historical past.

Escape from Pretoria

Set in South Africa

The true life story of Tim Jenkin and Stephen Lee – two white South Africans who’re arrested for finishing up anti-apartheid missions within the 70s. They’re given harsh jail sentences at Pretoria Jail and try an elaborate escape.

The Purple Sea Diving Resort

Set in Sudan

It’s actually not the perfect Africa film on this record or going to win any Oscars, nevertheless it actually is entertaining.

The Purple Sea Diving Resort is loosely based mostly on the occasions of Israel’s Operation Moses and Operation Joshua in 1984-1985. That is the place the Mossad (nationwide intelligence company of Israel) rescued Jewish-Ethiopian refugees who suffered from persecution in Sudan. They had been smuggled to Israeli utilizing an deserted dive resort off the Sudanese Purple Sea.

Beast

Set in South Africa

Maybe not probably the most reasonable of the Africa motion pictures, however actually an entertaining one with heartthrob Idris Elba because the lead man.

The story revolves round a father who has misplaced his partner and his two adolescent daughters on a visit to a recreation reserve in South Africa. Their tour takes a harmful flip when they’re pursued and assaulted by a fierce, rogue lion with a historical past of attacking people. This survival story is a thriller safari film, so long as you bear in mind that may be a Hollywood film, and never indicative of how a real-life safari would go.

Motion pictures About Africa on IMDB

To study extra about these Africa motion pictures, verify them out on IMDB. It’s in all probability our favourite website unrelated to journey. Just about the bread and butter of any die-hard film fan.