The Evolution of Ghanaian Cinema: Must-Watch Films Since 2010

Ghana’s film industry has evolved significantly since 2010, producing noteworthy films that blend traditional and modern storytelling. This article highlights key films with cultural significance and global appeal, including ‘Ties That Bind,’ ‘The Destiny of Lesser Animals,’ ‘Contract,’ ‘Silver Rain,’ ‘The Cursed Ones,’ ‘Children of the Mountain,’ ‘Keteke,’ ‘Azali,’ ‘The Burial of Kojo,’ ‘Gold Coast Lounge,’ and ‘The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later.’

Ghana’s film industry has made notable strides since 2010, delivering an impressive array of films that skillfully blend traditional narratives with contemporary themes. These films not only reflect the cultural fabric of Ghana but also resonate on an international scale, showcasing the evolution of storytelling within the industry. Highlighted below are some of the most significant Ghanaian films released post-2010, selected for their cultural relevance and global appeal.

Ties That Bind (2011)
This poignant film tells the story of three women–played by Kimberly Elise, Omotola Ekeinde, and Randall Batinkoff–who lose children and undertake a journey of redemption while renovating a clinic in a village. Featuring John Dumelo, it won nine awards, including ‘Best Feature Film’ at the 2011 Ghana Movie Awards.

The Destiny of Lesser Animals (2011)
In this compelling narrative, Inspector Koomsin, a police detective, strives to reclaim his aspirations while confronting a world rife with crime and corruption. The film boasts a strong ensemble, including Fred Amugi and Edinam Atatsi, contributing to its dramatic depth.

Contract (2012)
This story centers on a wealthy bachelor seeking fatherhood without marriage, leading him to hire a surrogate. As their arrangement develops, unforeseen emotions surface, complicating their relationship. The film garnered multiple nominations, winning Best Film and Best Writer at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.

Silver Rain (2015)
Directed by Juliet Asante, this film explores the friendship between Adjoa, a street girl, and Bruce, an affluent heir. Their connection ignites a class struggle as they navigate social barriers and personal quests for identity. The film achieved nominations at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.

The Cursed Ones (2015)
This film addresses themes of superstition and social hypocrisy through the tale of a journalist and a girl labeled a witch by a corrupt pastor’s community. The narrative, featuring notable actors like Oris Erhuero, critiques societal issues and received accolades for its human rights commentary.

Children of the Mountain (2016)
In this heart-wrenching film directed by Priscilla Anany, Essuman, a mother facing overwhelming stigma, seeks a cure for her son’s disabilities after being abandoned by her husband. The film won first prize at the Tribeca Film Festival, highlighting its impactful storytelling.

Keteke (2017)
Director Peter Sedufia presents a comedic drama set in the 1980s, following a pregnant woman and her husband as they navigate a chaotic journey home for their child’s birth. The film was celebrated at international festivals, showcasing its unique cultural narrative.

Azali (2018)
Highlighting the grave issue of child trafficking, this film follows Amina, a teenage girl escaping an arranged marriage, only to fall victim to traffickers in Accra. Selected as Ghana’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 92nd Academy Awards, it delivers a critical societal message.

The Burial of Kojo (2018)
Written and directed by Blitz Bazawule, this film captures a girl’s reflections on her father’s tragic fate intertwined with elements of magical realism. Garnering the Best Narrative Feature award, it became the first Ghanaian film to premiere on Netflix, showcasing its international reach.

Gold Coast Lounge (2019)
This film depicts a family’s struggle to legitimize a private lounge amid bureaucratic pressures. Directed by Pascal Aka, it blended crime and drama, securing seven awards at the Ghana Movie Awards, including Best Feature Film, upon its release in December 2019.

The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later (2019)
A sequel to the beloved original, this film follows three now-older women navigating new life challenges. It was notably recognized at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2020, with Gloria Sarfo winning ‘Best Supporting Actress’ for her performance.

In conclusion, the evolution of Ghanaian cinema since 2010 reflects a rich blend of emotional depth, cultural storytelling, and increased international visibility. The films highlighted in this article showcase a diverse array of themes, addressing critical social issues while appealing to both local and global audiences. As the industry progresses, these notable films not only entertain but also educate and inspire, marking significant milestones in Ghana’s cinematic history.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com