Review of Desert Flower (2009) by Phil B — 16 Feb 2011

Like the searing 'Moolaade' before it, Desert Flower deals with the barbaric and unconscionable practice of female circumcision. This film details a real life - that of Waris, the Somalian nomad, circumcised at 3 and fleeing to the West, finding fame on the fashion catwalks. If it is faithful to the autobiography, the film suffers by trying to cover too many, interweaving story lines. Initially, as expressed by Waris, there is her desire to be 'better than a cleaning lady'. From here, the film takes a 'Pygmalion' path, detailing her transformation to fashion ace (and to achieving permanent citizen status)and this is both fascinating and entertaining. Then, without forewarning, Waris declares her intent to take on the role of political campaigner. This distinct change of direction makes for a somewhat jumbled feel to the film.

Liya Kebede is drop-dead gorgeous as Waris but it is the supporting cast that strengthens the film - Sally Hawkins as the wonderfully engaging friend, Timothy Spall as the celebrated photographer and Juliet Stevenson as the humorously impassioned model agency boss.

There is a reluctance to offer any criticism of a film that has such a devastating message. Already, in real life, Waris has done much to stamp out this dreadful practice. If a burgeoning audience is the way to further strengthen the case, I urge every viewer to see this important film.