Film. ‘Akounak.’ This Nigerien Remake of Purple Rain is a ‘Must See.’

Akounak


“A revolutionary story of guitars, motorcycles, cell phones – and the music of a new generation” is how director Christopher Kirkley describes Akounak, a West African reimagining of the iconic Prince film Purple Rain.

Set in the Saharan city of Agadez in Niger, Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai, the film’s full title, translates to “Rain the Color of Blue With a Little Red in It.” While the country’s official language is French, there is no word for “purple” in the Tuareg language spoken by the people who primarily inhabit the Saharan desert.

The film stars Mdou Moctar, a self-taught guitarist, who travels through the desert on his signature purple motorcycle. Kirley discovered Moctar’s music while he was collecting songs from northern Mali, during a time period before Islamist militants banned secular music in the region.

Released through Sahel Sounds, Akounak‘s soundtrack features music from Moctar, alongside other West African artists. Watch a clip and trailer from the film below and follow Sahel Sounds on Facebook for updated screening information.


Akounak Teggdalit Taha Tazouhai Trailer from sahelsounds on Vimeo.

akounak from J. Sprig on Vimeo.