Rafiki

    Rafiki
    2018

    Synopsis

    Kena and Ziki long for something more. Despite the political rivalry between their families, the girls resist and remain close friends, supporting each other to pursue their dreams in a conservative society. When love blossoms between them, the two girls will be forced to choose between happiness and safety.

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    Cast

    • Samantha MugatsiaMakena Mwaura
    • Sheila MunyivaZiki Okemi
    • Jimmi GathuJohn Mwaura
    • Nini WaceraMercy
    • Dennis MusyokaPeter Okemi
    • Patricia AmiraRose Okemi
    • Neville MisatiBlacksta
    • Muthoni GathechaMama Atim
    • Nice GithinjiNduta
    • Charlie KarumiWaireri

    Recommendations

    • 83

      The Film Stage

      This is a contemporary slice of life drama that provides its central characters the agency with which to choose the existence they desire regardless of what cultural, societal, or familial traditions demand. These women aren’t merely bucking against the religious norms of gendered relationships, but the patriarchy at-large. They are here to be more than wives and mothers.
    • 70

      TheWrap

      Kahiu gives the film a brightness and vibrancy that works to counterbalance the perilous waters into which Kena and Ziki are venturing.
    • 70

      Screen Daily

      Charismatic performances by Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva make you believe in the characters and invest in the romance. When harsh reality inevitably intrudes on their dream love, the emotional impact is all the deeper.
    • 70

      Variety

      Even when Rafiki irons out its emotions a little too neatly, however, Mugatsia and Munyiva’s relaxed, sparking chemistry quickens its heartbeat.
    • 67

      IndieWire

      Wanuri Kahiu’s sophomore feature is just good enough to give its modest intentions a historic purpose, bringing fresh context to an old formula while hitting the expected emotional beats.
    • 65

      Vanity Fair

      If the film is uneven—with such an exuberant beginning and disappointingly rote climax—that may simply be because Kahiu wanted to communicate as many truths of her home country as she could.
    • 60

      CineVue

      While the premise of Rafiki is well-worn, the context of the film is not and Kahiu brings fresh zest to a familiar story which is told with spirit.
    • 60

      The Guardian

      What Kahiu’s film lacks in originality, it makes up for in its depiction of the giddy flush of first love. Mugatsia and Munyiva have an easy, unfussy chemistry that overcomes some creakier moments of dialogue.

    Seen by

    • Hella