Brightness

Brightness, released in 1987 and directed by the acclaimed Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, is a riveting cinematic masterpiece that weaves myth, magic, and reality into a mesmerizing tapestry of African tradition. The original title, "Yeelen," translates to "brightness" or "light," synonymous with the knowledge-wisdom blend that illuminates the path towards enlightenment.

Set in the thirteenth-century Mali empire, Brightness forms a potent blend of ancestral custom and spiritual evolvement, provoking profound introspection on society's precepts versus individual's innermost beliefs. The film galvanizes a stylized allegory, projected through an engaging father-and-son narrative replete with multifaceted characters and a visually captivating cinematography saturated with rich and vibrant African hues.

The film’s protagonist, Nianankoro (Issiaka Kane), a young Bambara tribesman, possesses mystical knowledge passed down through the generations. Having inherited enchanted powers from his forefathers, he is etched as an essential figure in his community. The premise unfolds as Nianankoro embarks on an arduous life-altering journey, pursued by his power-thirsty father, Soma (Niamanto Sanogo), yet seeking refuge and guidance under the potent tutelage of his uncle, Djigui Diarra.

Soma, Nianankoro's father, serves as the prime antagonist, symbolizing the oppressive traditional authority resisting change. His lust for untrammeled power and fear of his son's potential to supersede him set the stage for a gripping saga of ideological conflict, generational struggles, and a quest for personal freedom.

In Brightness, the portrayal of a female character is not left in the dark. Nianankoro’s story is as much shaped by his distressing struggle with his father as it is by the independence and determination of the strong-willed, enigmatic woman named Attou (Aoua Sangare). Amid grave trials and tribulations, Attou’s character resonates with courage, proving instrumental in the propulsion of the narrative and Nianankoro’s progress.

Souleymane Cissé employs a kaleidoscopic mise-en-scene to illuminate the dichotomy between tradition and progress, shadow and light, and ignorance and wisdom. Africian landscapes are stunningly used to embody this metaphorical split; sterile deserts representing arid traditions are counterbalanced with dense, fertile forests symbolizing a more nurturing, progressive outlook. This visual dichotomy reinforces the film's philosophical underpinnings.

In weaving together themes of power struggle, human fears, ambitions, and the insurmountable power of truth, Cissé creates a holistic and culturally immersive viewing experience. The film focuses much of its attention on maintaining the integrity of the indigenous African culture. From the portrayal of African life and customs to the liberal use of Bambara language, Brightness prides itself on its authenticity.

Brightness also features a memorable soundtrack composed primarily of traditional African instruments, immersing viewers into the rich auditory landscape of African heritage. The primal beats and rhythmic ebbs and flows work in harmony with the pulsating narrative, underlining the emotional turmoil of the characters and the spiritual intensity of the plot.

Despite its historical and cultural remote context, Brightness continues to resonate with contemporary audiences's universal themes. Its exploration of power dynamics, the primal human fear of change, and the eternal quest for knowledge transcends cultural barriers, making it a thought-provoking watch for anyone intrigued by human psychology and societal organization.

Through his compelling, intricately constructed narrative and aesthetically captivating cinematic methods, Souleymane Cissé invites viewers into a transcendent exploration of power, spirituality, and wisdom through the lenses of time-honored African tradition and philosophy in Brightness.

While the film does require a thoughtful engagement from viewers familiar with western storytelling conventions due to its unique narrative structure, it is undeniably a visual spectacle and a profound reflection on societal and existential dilemmas universal in scope.