Baloji’s debut feature film, “Augure (Omen),” premiered at the prestigious Un Certain Regard section of the 76th annual Cannes Film Festival and left an indelible mark, ultimately winning the festival’s coveted New Voice Prize. This groundbreaking film defies conventional storytelling, presenting a tapestry of magical realism and traditional African iconography, offering a nuanced portrait of the continent like never before. Through its fusion of Christian and shamanic beliefs, “Augure” delves into the struggle for existence in a society immersed in the vibrant colors, sounds, and urban legends of black magic and folklore. It masterfully captures the weirdness and mystique of a culture deeply rooted in myths and shamanism.
The narrative of “Augure (Omen)” meanders between a linear plot and a storytelling approach reminiscent of Gabriel García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” As a result, the film presents itself as a complex puzzle, pieced together from the perspective of a Western tourist. These fragments aim to illustrate the fabled practices and the fusion of African magic within this shamanic culture. We are transported into a universe brimming with stories and captivating activities. While the image of weeping women whose tears flow like rivers at their feet is commonly associated with Latin American tales, the film’s imaginative portrayal, cinematography, and lighting evoke Renaissance religious paintings depicting Christ.
The movie skillfully blends Western and African cultural elements, creating a confrontational dynamic that initially evokes fear but ultimately serves as a means to explore the uncharted allure of a civilization unscathed by the ravages of globalization. It challenges the simplistic notion of the Congolese people tormented solely by the ghosts of their history. Additionally, the depiction of a rivalry between two street gangs exposes the ugly face of violence in a poverty-stricken society.
“Augure (Omen)” envisions a society where ancient methods and beliefs persist, as if magic and myth are intrinsic to the very fabric of its people’s existence. Simultaneously, the story of a Belgian couple’s separation amidst the chaos and their subsequent misfortunes merely serves as a vehicle to explore this genuine and isolated primitive civilization.
While the first half of the plot draws parallels to films like “The Omen,” the latter half leans more towards narratives involving gang warfare. Baloji, the Congolese-born Belgian director, presents his first film as a captivating journey, akin to a vacation to the motherland, immersing foreign audiences in the richness and uniqueness of Congolese culture, steeped in tales of magic and myth.
Watching “Augure (Omen)” is akin to getting lost in an enchanting maze, wherein every twist and turn reveals a fantastical world pulsating with wonder. The film bridges the gap between the living and the ghosts of bygone eras, creating a region with a carnival-like atmosphere where the living, the dead, and the demons have somehow managed to coexist.
The stellar cast, including Marc Zinga as Koffi, Lucie Debay as Alice, Eliane Umuhire as Tshala, Yves-Marina Gnahoua as Mama Mujila, and Marcel Otete Kabeya as Paco, delivers powerful performances that breathe life into the film’s extraordinary vision.
Baloji, as both the writer and director of “Augure (Omen),” showcases his profound artistic sensibility and visionary storytelling. Benoit Roland’s production expertise brings the film to life, while Joaquim Philippe’s cinematography captures the essence of the narrative. Liesa Van der Aa’s original score adds a haunting layer to the film, perfectly complemented by the editing prowess of Bruno Tracq and Bertrand Conard.
In conclusion, “Augure (Omen)” is a mesmerizing cinematic experience that takes audiences on a journey through the intricate tapestry of African mythology and magic. Baloji’s directorial debut exhibits his mastery in crafting a visually stunning and intellectually captivating film, immersing viewers in a world where reality and fantasy intertwine. It is a triumph of storytelling, deserving of the accolades and recognition it has received at Cannes and beyond.
