Director’s Quest to Reclaim Congolese History

Read Time:3 Minute, 49 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Colette and Justin
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2022, 2024 Icarus Films DVD
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Alain Kassanda
Where To Watch: available now here on DVD: www.amazon.com or stream via Icarus Films On Demand, www.amazon.com, Vimeo On Demand, and OVID

RAVING REVIEW: COLETTE AND JUSTIN captivates the heart, showcasing how Alain Kassanda marries personal stories with a sweeping historical scope. As he explores the lives of his grandparents under colonial rule in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kassanda doesn't just tell their stories; he uses them as a lens to scrutinize the broader, lingering shadows of colonialism that still affect modern Africa. This film goes beyond being a mere story of the past; it challenges viewers to confront the complexities of identity and legacy intertwined with the painful truths of imperialism.

The film dives deep into the identities of Justin and Colette, a couple who lived through the worst of their era—Justin navigating the rough waters between being a colonial administrator and a freedom fighter and Colette, whose existence underscored the stark gender dynamics imposed by Belgian rulers. Through their journey, Kassanda uses their experiences to discuss broader themes of resistance and identity, piecing together archival footage and personal anecdotes that enrich our understanding of how colonialism has molded individual and national identities.

One of the standout aspects of COLETTE AND JUSTIN is its poignant exploration of gender dynamics, mainly through Colette's experiences. The film portrays her as a symbol of resilience under the double dose of colonial and patriarchal oppression. It’s a compelling portrayal highlighting how deeply colonial policies seep into the fabric of personal lives, affecting individuals long after the supposed end of their rule. The subtle yet powerful use of archival footage illustrates Colette's life and emphasizes the pervasive control and exploitation masked by everyday colonial life.

The emotional core of the documentary is Kassanda's complex relationship with Patrice Lumumba's legacy. His admiration for the iconic leader is contrasted with his grandfather's actions, creating a narrative tension that mirrors the political upheavals of Congo’s journey to independence. This personal conflict deepens the film's exploration of legacy, offering a nuanced look at the emotional and political conflicts inherent in navigating post-colonial identities.

Kassanda's own story, straddling identities as both Congolese and French, adds a twist to the narrative, making it not just a historical documentary but a personal saga that resonates with anyone grappling with dual identities. This personal angle broadens the documentary’s appeal and bridges historical events with their long-lasting impacts on descendants.

Brilliantly scored and seamlessly edited, COLETTE AND JUSTIN redefine the boundaries of documentary filmmaking. It combines educational material with a dynamic narrative that engages viewers, urging them to reflect on the intricate aspects of historical and personal stories. Kassanda’s empathetic approach ensures that every scene contributes to the discourse on colonial legacies and personal histories.

Ultimately, COLETTE AND JUSTIN serves as a profound call to action. It invites viewers to ponder the interconnectedness of colonial history with personal identity and challenges us to reconsider how these stories are remembered and retold. Kassanda bridges generational gaps and intermixes a narrative that hits on universal themes of resistance and the continuous impact of colonial legacies. This film is a pressing reminder of the need to understand and reconcile with our histories for the benefit of future generations.

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[photo courtesy of ICARUS FILMS]

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