Had to see it on the big screen so I waited for a one-off screening at Vancouver Intl. Film Centre instead of watching at home. Diop, a wonderful actor who made a strong impression on me with just two roles (35 Shots of Rum and Simon Killer) proves to be just as interesting a director. Always ahead of the audience, not afraid of long takes and tangents and tackling the issue of immigration in a profound way. Very strong debut.
Very pretty cinematography by Claire Mathon who captures the ghostly, silvery night scapes of Dakar.
Panasonic Varicam 35, Zeiss Ultra Speed and Angenieux Optimo Lenses
Red Weapon, Zeiss Ultra Speed and Angenieux Optimo Lenses
Check out this interview... she mentions that Diop cited several of Carpenter’s films (Fog, Assault) for the look.
www.afcinema.com/Claire-Mathon-AFC-discusses-her-work-on-Mati-Diop-s-film-Atlantique.html?lang=fr
Mati Diop is the first black woman director in history to compete in Cannes competition.