Watch Atlantics

Atlantics is a hauntingly beautiful film from 2019 that takes the viewer on a journey of love, loss, and longing in a small coastal town in Dakar, Senegal. The movie is directed by Mati Diop, the first black woman to compete for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The story revolves around a young couple, Ada (Mame Bineta Sane) and Souleiman (Ibrahima Traore), who are deeply in love but face many challenges due to their different economic and social backgrounds. Ada is betrothed to a wealthy businessman, Omar (Babacar Sylla), whom she doesn't love but is expected to marry. Souleiman is a construction worker who hasn't been paid for months and along with his colleagues, decides to embark on a journey to Spain by sea in search of a better life.

As the film moves forward, a tragic event changes the course of the story, and the spirits of the dead begin to return to the town, looking for justice and closure. Ada is haunted by the presence of Souleiman and his companions, who have drowned at sea in their attempt to reach Europe. The film delicately weaves a love story with a supernatural element that elevates it to another level.

The cinematography in the film is breathtaking, with stunning shots of Dakar's coastline and skyscrapers. The power and beauty of the ocean are captured in vivid detail, as it is an ever-present force in the movie that brings both turmoil and serenity. The use of color is also noteworthy, with a muted tone that reflects the melancholic undertone of the story.

Mame Bineta Sane delivers a powerful performance as Ada, showcasing her range from grief-stricken to determined. Her character's journey from a woman who is trapped by societal expectations to one who takes control of her life is one of the highlights of the movie. Amadou Mbow, who plays Issa, is also notable for his portrayal of a young man who is hopelessly in love with Ada but has to watch her marry someone else.

The film's soundtrack is a blend of traditional Senegalese music and contemporary beats, creating a unique and refreshing atmosphere. The use of music and song adds an additional layer to the movie's emotional complexity, giving it a soulful and authentic feel.

Overall, Atlantics is a deeply moving film that explores important themes such as migration, social inequality, and the impact of traditional customs on modern life. The supernatural element adds a mystical quality to the movie, making it a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. It is a testament to the talent of Mati Diop and the cast and crew that they were able to create such a beautiful and thought-provoking piece of cinema.

Atlantics is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 85.