DVD Spotlight - Kirikou And The Sorceress
I just received my copy of the special edition, 2-disc DVD package of the award winning, 1998 animated feature, Kirikou And The Sorceress, and I'm ecstatic (as Mike Tyson used to say).
If you haven't heard of, nor seen this film, you should do so pronto! And if you're thinking of purchasing it, may I suggest you do as I did, and get the special edition, which is actually not easily found.
Based on West African folklore, this fanciful, animated feature from French artist and director Michel Ocelot is based on a popular West African folklore. It's the story of a remarkable baby boy, the titular Kirikou, who is born with the ability to speak, amazing intelligence, resourcefulness, and incredible physical abilities.
After learning that his parents' village is being threatened by a sorceress with a taste for human flesh, Kirikou takes on the burden of village hero, and goes on a journey of discovery, encountering friends and foes along the way, including a monster who can drain waterfalls and lakes with his enormous thirst, and a wise man living on a magic mountain - all with the end goal of defeating the sorceress, Karaba, and undoing the deadly curses she placed on his village.
The film, by the way, features an extraordinary original musical score by Senegalese music icon Youssou N'Dour.
Easily one of the most enchanting animated features I've seen in awhile.
If you appreciated films like the Lord of The Rings trilogy, you'll like this one as well.
With the 2-disc special edition, you'll enjoy a second animated feature film by Michel Ocelot, titled Princes and Princesses.
I couldn't find a proper trailer for Kirikou, so the below clip will have to do. The film is in French, with several subtitle options, including English, of course.
ah this is a good one. i saw it at a film fest. then i think i saw it again recently on tv or something. oh yea me likey