Night of the Kings

Night of the Kings

Year: 2021

Runtime: 93 min

Language: French

Director: Philippe Lacôte

DramaFantasy

In the heart of Ivorian forest, "La Maca" prison holds its own dark magic. With the crimson moon rising, a young man is thrust into the role of "Roman," tasked with weaving an epic tale for the prisoners. As he recounts the mythical exploits of outlaw Zama King, he must keep his story alive until dawn's break, unaware of the fate that awaits him amidst the treacherous power dynamics and ancient traditions.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Night of the Kings (2021)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Night of the Kings (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events take place in a contemporary setting where the themes of prison life, authority, and storytelling intertwine amidst societal issues. The narrative captures the essence of struggle in a modern prison environment, with the red moon symbolizing both hope and terror.

Location

MACA Prison, Abidjan

MACA Prison is a notorious facility in Ivory Coast, where the inmates create their own governance and culture. Known for its harsh realities, the prison becomes a microcosm of power struggles, loyalty, and survival. Abidjan, the economic capital of Ivory Coast, serves as a backdrop to the struggles of the inmates, representing both decay and resilience.

🏢 Prison 🌆 City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

Main Characters – Night of the Kings (2021)
Meet the key characters of Night of the Kings (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Blackbeard (Steve Tientcheu)

Blackbeard, the ailing Dangôro, is a complex character torn between the pressures of leadership and the fight for survival. He embodies the weight of authority while struggling with despair, ultimately presenting a tragic figure in a ruthless environment. His decisions set off a chain of events that explore themes of legacy and sacrifice.

👑 Leadership 🥀 Tragedy

Roman

Roman is the new griot who reluctantly takes on the storytelling duty. Through his narratives, he seeks to captivate the prison audience while navigating the perils of inmate politics. His journey reveals strength and creativity, contrasting the harshness of his surroundings.

🎤 Storyteller 🎭 Ingenuity

Half-Mad (Jean Cyrille Digbeu)

Half-Mad is a critical character driven by ambition, seeking to claim the title of Dangôro. His determination illustrates the dangers of power lust, showcasing a blend of loyalty and treachery. His interactions with Blackbeard and Roman highlight the complexities of camaraderie and enmity within the prison.

🤪 Ambition ⚔️ Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

Major Themes – Night of the Kings (2021)
Explore the central themes of Night of the Kings (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

📖 Storytelling

Storytelling plays a central role in the movie, adding depth to the lives of the inmates. Roman's narratives not only entertain but also reflect their harsh realities and histories. This theme emphasizes the power of stories in preserving identities and legacies under oppressive conditions.

⚔️ Power Struggle

The film delves into the intense power struggles within the prison ecosystem, particularly the fight for the position of Dangôro. Blackbeard and his rivals learn that survival often relies on manipulation, betrayal, and the sacrifices one must make in the face of ambition and despair.

💔 Tragedy

Tragedy permeates the film, with the loss of lives underscoring the brutal reality of prison existence. The characters grapple with the consequences of their choices, leading to bittersweet moments that highlight the fragility of hope amidst despair.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

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