Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai

Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai, also known as "Rain the Color of Blue with a Little Red in It," is a highly unique and innovative work of cinema. Directed by Christopher Kirkley and released in 2015, this film is described as the first-ever Tuareg-language fictional film. The film stars Fatimata Falo, Rhaicha Ibrahim, and Ahmoudou Madassane and was shot entirely in Niger.

The movie is a homage to the cult rock drama on which it’s based, Prince's "Purple Rain," only here we experience a whole other world and culture through Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai. The film draws viewers into the fascinating depths of struggles within the musical setting in the Sahara Desert. The title, which translates to "Rain the Color of Blue with a Little Red in It," is a reference to the linguistic feature that the Tamasheq language has no word for 'purple,' nodding to the film's tribute to "Purple Rain."

Ahmoudou Madassane, a notable figure in the Tamasheq music scene, both stars in and lends his musical talent to the film. In Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai, Madassane plays Mdou Moctar, a gifted guitarist who navigates the cultural sociopolitical landscapes and personal trials to try and make it to the top of Agadez's music scene.

Fatimata Falo portrays the aforementioned guitarist’s love interest, and Rhaicha Ibrahim is the antagonist, a brawny rival guitarist. Together, they bring a rich and authentic texture to the narrative that depicts the Tuareg culture in an unprecedented way within the film industry.

What sets this film apart is the tightly woven narrative crafted around a part of the world and a culture seldom seen on screen. Amongst the unmistakable rhythms and undulating guitar hooks of Tuareg Blues, the characters reveal human stories of love, rivalry, and music, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Saharan cityscape.

This film breaks new ground by being the first to introduce Tuareg culture to the broader world cinema audience in the form of a very accessible movie based on universal themes of music, love, and rivalry.

A standout feature of the film is undoubtedly its music. Mdou Moctar's songs, intense guitar sessions, and the buzzing energy of the local music scene, play an integral role in the film. The soundtrack blends beautifully with the scenes and becomes an inseparable part of the story, aiding the emotional communication and the portrayal of Tuareg culture.

Visually, Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai is a captivating exploration too, depicting the vibrant and sandy terrains of Agadez. The cinematography of the film involves naturalistic light, casting a comfortable glow over the rammed-earth architecture of Agadez and the radiant Tuareg garments.

The film plays out within this unique setting, underlying many social debates, as well as values shared universally. These include generational conflict over musical style and lyrical content, the implications of global digital technology on localized music forms, issues of caste and social status, and the role music has in agitating social and political change.

Although the film might remind viewers of other music-based dramas, Kirkley's film is a deep exploration of Tuareg music and culture. The characters are multifaceted and fascinating, and the music is stirring and exhilarating.

Moreover, Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai doesn't shy away from delivering the vibrant and energetic scenes expected from any film of a guitarist looking for recognition. The scenes, featuring Mdou and his raw talent, are power-packed. The performances are energetic, with cultural dances and highly electrified guitar sessions that are hard to forget.

Overall, the movie is an intriguing, captivating, and intimate look at an artist's journey through the lens of a unique cultural perspective. Akounak Tedalat Taha Tazoughai is a masterfully created film that adds a new and exciting facet to the world of cinema.