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Sambizanga is a 1972 film directed by Sarah Maldoror and set in Angola, one of the countries which was a Portuguese colony for several centuries till 1975. The movie is about the protracted and brutal war that Angola endured for independence. It takes place in the early 1960s when the country was still under Portuguese rule. The narrative revolves around the story of a young black Angolan man named Domingos, played by Domingos de Oliveira. The movie starts with Domingos being arrested by the Portuguese for his involvement in the pro-independent movement called MPLA (People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola).

Domingos, a worker in a factory, is taken to a police cell and brutally tortured. He is accused of being a member of the MPLA and plotting against the Portuguese government. Despite his repeated denials of the allegations, the Portuguese authorities continue to abuse him until he finally cracks and agrees to sign a confession that incriminates his wife, Maria, played by Elisa Andrade, as well as his comrades in the movement.

The rest of the movie is about Domingos' attempts to find his wife and tell her what he had been forced to do. He escapes from prison and embarks on a journey, which takes him through several towns and cities in Angola. Along the way, he meets other victims of Portuguese brutality, including peasants, students, and other activists.

Through a series of flashbacks, we learn more about Domingos' past and the circumstances that led him to become involved in the independence struggle. We see his interactions with his wife, Maria, and their children, as well as his dedication to the MPLA cause.

The movie is a heart-wrenching portrayal of the atrocities committed by the Portuguese in Angola during the 1960s. It is a bitter indictment of colonialism and reveals the struggle, bravery, and suffering of those who fought for freedom.

The movie is unique because it was the first full-length film made by a black African woman. The director, Sarah Maldoror, was an Algerian-born activist and filmmaker. Sambizanga was her first feature film, and she displays tremendous skill in creating a powerful and inspiring narrative about the struggle for freedom in Angola.

Sambizanga was filmed in Angola and features an entirely African cast. The film captures the mood and atmosphere of the country during the period of struggle for independence. The music and scenery are authentic and convey the pain and sadness felt by the people.

The film's performances are convincing, and the cast does an excellent job of bringing the story to life. Domingos de Oliveira is impressive in the lead, and Elisa Andrade gives a heart-rending performance as Maria.

In conclusion, Sambizanga is a gripping and emotionally charged film that tells the story of Angola's quest for independence from Portuguese colonial rule. It portrays the brutal and cruel treatment of the Angolan people by the Portuguese, as well as the courage, resilience, and determination of those who fought for freedom. Directed by Sarah Maldoror and starring Domingos de Oliveira, Elisa Andrade, and Jean M'Vondo, the film is an important contribution to African cinema and a testimony to the pain, suffering, and triumph of the human spirit.