5 African Coming of Age Films You Should Watch | by Umaimah Adan

One of my favourite genres of film to explore the seemingly contradictory themes of hope, angst, resilience and anticipation. A reminder of what we've overcome while keeping the child in us alive.

1. Dhalinyaro (Youth) 2017

Still from Lula Ali Ismaïl's <i>Dhalinyaro</i> — Still from Lula Ali Ismaïl's *Dhalinyaro*

Set in present-day Djibouti, Dhalinyaro is a visually captivating depiction of the friendship of three teen girls. The film explores themes of class, teen romance and familial obligation against the back-drop of the inevitable ups and downs of friendship. A much-needed account of girlhood.

2. The Valley of a Thousand Hills (2022)

Still from Bonie Sithebe's<i>The Valley of a Thousand Hills </i> — Still from Bonie Sithebe'sThe Valley of a Thousand Hills

A South-African tale of unrequited queer love that explores the struggle between cultural expectations and following one's heart.

3.Touki Bouki (1973)

Still from <i>Touki Bouki, </i>directed by Djibril Diop Mambéty — Still from *Touki Bouki,* directed by Djibril Diop Mambéty

A classic of African cinema, Touki Bouki follows a pair of lovers disenchanted with post-independence Senegal. They seek to leave Dakar and embark on a journey to France, imagining a future of glamour and ease.

4. Rocks (2020)

Still from Sarah Gavron's <i>Rocks </i> — Still from Sarah Gavron's *Rocks*

Written by Nigerian-British playwright/screenwriter Theresa Ikoko, Rocks follows Shola, a 15-year old teen attempting to protect her younger brother after they're abandoned by their mother. An earnest, refreshing diasporic representation of girlhood that Ikoko calls "a love letter to Black and Brown girls".

5. I Am Not a Witch (2017)

Still from Rungano Nyoni's <i>I Am Not a Witch </i> — Still from Rungano Nyoni's *I Am Not a Witch*

Set in Zambia, this captivating tale critiques gender norms, superstitions, and the struggle for identity within a magical realist framework.

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