The Senegalese film Faat Kiné is an honest look at the fine line women walked in society. Can’t be too naive and you can’t be too frank. I’m not sure how much things have changed for women around the world since then, but by American standards, Faat Kiné has become the rule. The average American woman can stand on her own, pay her bills, and all that jazz. The film celebrates women’s liberation or at least I think it does. That being said let’s get it!

Twice an unwed mother, Faat Kiné is forced
into the male-dominated world of business. Despite the odds, Faat is successful as a petrol station manager to the extent that she has become the object of most men’s wet dreams. Except for the fact that she is frank to the point of vulgarity. Further, now that her children are successful in their chosen paths they feel they must find their mother a suitable lover before they scurry off into their own lives.

First, Eastern countries are not known for their love for women, so it wasn’t a stretch to believe her father would openly shame her, maybe even disinherit her, but trial by fire? But then I thought about it. And yeah that shit’s pretty common. Had she been burned instead of her mother, Faat would’ve probably been getting off easy as others have died for less. But it’s still shocking. So I found it very curious that her kids called by her first name without repercussions. Of course, one could say Faat is not the conventional African woman, but still a little jarring. As an African who grew up in the States, I don’t think I would have survived with the mindset I have today back then in Africa. There were a lot of things I got away with by virtue of growing up in America that would have gotten me stoned or concussed had I lived in Africa. For example, talking back to elders. Not only would my parents have gotten their licks in, but the community as a whole would have made it their business to put me in my place. Further, there was a visceral instinct to drop-kick the shit out of Aby when she talked back to her mother (even though I’ve been guilty of the same behavior). Thankfully times have changed and I’m not that person anymore- I think. But that vein of disrespect runs pretty deep in the movie, to the point it made me fear for Faat’s life in some instances. Though sometimes deserved, she disrespects folks simply because she has cash. But I can’t blame her too much. You can’t be too nice or people will take advantage of you.

Other than the fact that she is essentially a home-wrecker and nearly killed an asthmatic woman for her worthless husband, I think she’s pretty okay. Lol. Faat’s honesty, though not entirely my cup of chai, is refreshing. She is honest about what she wants and doesn’t sugarcoat shit.

My main concern is why couldn’t they- her family- leave her alone? Why must she be in a relationship? Also, was I the only one who thought Aby and Djib were a little too close for siblings?

Anypoops, I give Faat Kiné 4 out of 5 rose petals.