Rungano Nyoni has emerged as one of the most talented filmmakers currently, having directed "I Am Not a Witch" and winning the BAFTA for Outstanding debut in 2018. Now, her focus shifts to "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl", a family saga set against the backdrop of a middle-class Zambian family with a wicked uncle. This film offers a unique perspective on tradition and modern identity.

Unraveling Tradition in "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl"

The Premise and Subversion

Many films begin with the premise of a young person returning home to confront family traditions and the clash of modern identity. However, "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" subverts this formula. It shows that one can never truly go home again, as the family's secrets and the unchanged dynamics become evident. The pain running through Shula's character, brought to life by Susan Chardy, is palpable beneath her stoic facade. She is capable of restraining her emotions even as her family falls apart around her.This film challenges our notions of tradition and the idea that everyone should be remembered fondly. It highlights the harsh reality that not everyone is perfect and that some secrets should be examined.

The Power of the Final Shot

There are louder and shoutier films, but the final shot of "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" lingers in the mind for years. It is a powerful and quiet moment that conveys a sense of anger and warning. Shula has tried repeatedly to warn the family about Uncle Fred, but they have ignored her. As more people come forward with the same story, the anger grows. The film veers into dark bleak comedy at times, as seen in the opening scene where Shula tries to call her dad for help with Fred's corpse.This shows how Zambian culture often takes precedence over reason, and how tradition can protect the wrong people.

The Uselessness of Elder Characters

The elder characters in the film offer no solutions to the problem. Their patronising comments only add to Shula's anger, as her own father would rather party than mourn Uncle Fred. They are protected by tradition, and this highlights the flaws in the system."On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" is quiet enough to make the audience angry. It is not a Hollywood film with a happy ending; instead, it shows how tradition can let down the younger generation. Shula's embracement of American self-help podcasts and modern work culture serves as a gateway to the bleakness that follows.

The Blend of Tragedy and Comedy

This film is a masterful blend of tragedy and black comedy. There are touches of "Uncut Gems"-level stress in its frantic and buzzy screenplay, which adds to its strength. It takes risks where most dare not and shines a spotlight on tradition.Forget the Oscar frontrunners; "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" is one of the best films of the year. It defies tradition in Zambian culture and in filmmaking, and is worthy of being remembered.