French Club's Debut: A movie day with KIRIKOU
The French Club's inaugural event on May 9th (2024) at the French & Francophone Department, was a momentous occasion filled with excitement and cultural enrichment. As students gathered eagerly, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, marking the beginning of a journey to explore and celebrate French & Francophone culture. Led and organised by the Department alongside the enthusiastic M. Paul Ledin (French 3 student), the event aimed to immerse students in various facets of French culture, primarily through the medium of films, music and literatures. Welcoming both French and non-French students from Rhodes University, the French club sought to create an inclusive space where everyone could appreciate and engage with the richness of French and Francophone heritage.
The highlight of the event was the screening of “Kirikou,” a captivating film directed by Michel Ocelot. Set in an African village, the story follows the adventures of Kirikou, a clever and courageous young boy who embarks on a quest to save his people from the clutches of an evil sorceress. Drawing inspiration from West African folklore, the film not only entertained but also imparted valuable lessons of bravery, resilience, and the power of community. As the lights dimmed and the movie began, a hush fell over the audience, anticipation visible in the air. From the opening scenes to the climactic finale, “Kirikou” held the audience spellbound, eliciting gasps of wonder and laughter in equal measure. The colourful animation and enchanting storytelling transported viewers to a world filled with magic and adventure, leaving a lasting impression on all who watched.
Throughout the screening, the audience thoroughly enjoyed it. For Paul Ledin, witnessing the joy and engagement of the attendees,
he felt a sense of fulfilment, knowing that the event was a resounding success and a promising start for the French club. “I was very happy and excited about the event, it went very well, and I thought it was a great start to start the club,” he said. Amidst the cinematic
experience, attendees indulged in snacks and popcorn, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event. The aroma of freshly popped corn mingled with the sounds of laughter and animated discussion, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment among the students.
Following the screening, the room buzzed with conversation as attendees exchanged thoughts and reflections on the film. Many expressed admirations for Kirikou's intelligence and bravery, while others marvelled at the film's vibrant animation and captivating storytelling. Through these discussions, connections were forged, and friendships were deepened, underscoring the transformative power of cultural exchange. For Theo, a student who attended the event, Kirikou’s story left a lasting impression. “I really liked the movie,” he said, his eyes alight with enthusiasm. “Kirikou is such a smart boy, and his adventures were so exciting” he added. As the event drew to a close, there was a sense of anticipation for the future of the French club. With its successful debut behind them, the club members looked forward to more opportunities to explore and celebrate French culture together.
By Urielle Kayumba