*Special “Cinema in Context” screening on Monday, May 13 at 7:00pm with Prof. Amah Edoh, Assistant Professor of African studies at MIT
2018 • dir Wanuri Kahiu w/Samantha Mugatsia, Sheila Munyiva • 83 min • DCP
Bursting with the colorful street style & music of Nairobi’s vibrant youth culture, RAFIKI is a tender love story between two young women in a country that still criminalizes homosexuality. Kena and Ziki have long been told that “good Kenyan girls become good Kenyan wives” – but they yearn for something more. Despite the political rivalry between their families, the girls encourage each other to pursue their dreams in a conservative society. When love blossoms between them, Kena and Ziki must choose between happiness and safety.
Initially banned in Kenya for its positive portrayal of queer romance, RAFIKI won a landmark supreme court case chipping away at Kenyan anti-LGBT legislation. Featuring remarkable performances by newcomers Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva, RAFIKI is a hip tale of first love that’s “impossible not to celebrate” (Variety)!
Staff Pick: Petra, Casey, Erica
“From its opening frames, Rafiki is bursting with life.”
– Katie Rife, AV Club
“A vibrant, pulsing piece of work, keying off the joy of young love and unexpected discovery.”
– Jason Bailey, Flavorwire
“A beautiful badge of courage and perseverance for the Kenyan LGBTQ community.”
– Tom Meek, Cambridge Day
Brattle passes accepted. Special, Usher, and Producer members may reserve seats in advance [instructions]. Regular & Dual Members may redeem passes at the box office pending availability.
Premieres Archive • Special Engagements Archive • Staff Picks (past events)
Rafiki
Theatrical Premiere Run!
Friday, May 10 – Thursday, May 16
*Special “Cinema in Context” screening on Monday, May 13 at 7:00pm with Prof. Amah Edoh, Assistant Professor of African studies at MIT
2018 • dir Wanuri Kahiu w/Samantha Mugatsia, Sheila Munyiva • 83 min • DCP
Bursting with the colorful street style & music of Nairobi’s vibrant youth culture, RAFIKI is a tender love story between two young women in a country that still criminalizes homosexuality. Kena and Ziki have long been told that “good Kenyan girls become good Kenyan wives” – but they yearn for something more. Despite the political rivalry between their families, the girls encourage each other to pursue their dreams in a conservative society. When love blossoms between them, Kena and Ziki must choose between happiness and safety.
Initially banned in Kenya for its positive portrayal of queer romance, RAFIKI won a landmark supreme court case chipping away at Kenyan anti-LGBT legislation. Featuring remarkable performances by newcomers Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva, RAFIKI is a hip tale of first love that’s “impossible not to celebrate” (Variety)!
Staff Pick: Petra, Casey, Erica