Review of Viva Riva! (2010) by Eric G — 08 Jul 2011
My first african film noir (no pun intended). Taking place in Congo (ex Zaire), it also incorporates elements of the blaxpoitation genre, exploring the seedy aspects of Kinshasa (the capital) and follows gangsters fighting to profit from the shortage of oil.
The film is raw and gritty, and sometimes reminded me of Tarantino, but without the humour. It explores the rampant corruption in the country, the disregard for human life, relations between men and women.
What is striking in the film is the mix of the various languages spoken in the region: french, portuguese, and various congolese languages, all mixed together. The acting is terrific, especially the main character, a gutsy and reckless young thug, and the beautiful femme fatale played by Manie Malone.
A very good film.
This review of Viva Riva! (2010) was written by Eric G on 08 Jul 2011.
Viva Riva! has generally received mixed reviews.
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