An adaptation of Sembène’s own 1973 novel, Xala offers a hilarious, caustic satire of political corruption under an inept patriarchy.

On the night of his third wedding, government official El Hadji (Thierno Leye) is rendered impotent. After suspecting that one of his other wives has placed a curse (xala) on him, El Hadji must face the possibility that he deserves the infliction for his part in the embezzlement of public funds and for helping to keep Senegal in French hands.

Combining elements from African folklore and popular cinema, Sembène uses Xala to indict the immoral hubris of entitled male authority figures and Senegalese sell-outs.

Screening as part of the Ousmane Sembène: The Father of African Cinema season.