An enchanting, life-affirming animation of love and redemption, made with no small measure of maturity and care -- along with an all too rare respect for the art of storytelling.
Kirikou and the Sorceress (1998)
Runtime: 74 mins
Synopsis: The exceptional powers possessed by a young boy form the focus for this outstanding animated drama. The plot is based on stories that have entered into African legend as tales of a remarkably gifted child have been handed down through the generations. Physically strong, incredibly... The exceptional powers possessed by a young boy form the focus for this outstanding animated drama. The plot is based on stories that have entered into African legend as tales of a remarkably gifted child have been handed down through the generations. Physically strong, incredibly intelligent, and able to talk from an inexplicably early age, the boys talents are harnessed by local villagers in an attempt to lift a curse that has been placed on them. A noteworthy entry into the canon of animated features, KIRIKOU AND THE SORCERESS is an impressively rendered tale that should captivate young and old alike. [More]
Genre: Childrens
DVD Info
Release:
Dec 5, 2006
DVD Features:
- Region (unknown)
- Keep Case
Additional Release Material:
- Director's Comments
Interactive Features:
- Scene Access
Reviews
The two-dimensional drawings with the characters usually in profile look like folk art and have the feel of a children's book.
TAn enchanting, life-affirming animation of love and redemption, made with no small measure of maturity and care - along with an all too rare respect for the art of storytelling.
This charming animated feature is a welcome antidote to the relentless cutesiness inherent in so many child-oriented toons.
Kirikou and the Sorceress's surprising honesty about the banality of evil makes the movie -- even with all its magic -- feel truly authentic.
The soundtrack, by well-known African composer Youssou N'Dour, using only traditional instruments, lends to the film's timeless feel, like an age-old fable come to life.
Should appeal to younger children and to adults who can appreciate its quiet pleasures.
Kirikou's depiction of Africa and Africans is dignified, not Disneyfied, and though that may not help the film at the box office, it does make for a welcome change.
Definitely a sunny spot in the mire of frenetic, violent and often dopey cartoon films produced by Hollywood.
In addition to being an uplifting morality tale suitable for all ages, this refreshingly different work by filmmaker Michel Ocelot is an aural as well as a visual delight.
If the moral of this folk tale seems obvious -- and it won't be to most children -- watching it unfold is its own reward.
A gem of a film with important lessons that the whole family will enjoy.

Top Critic