Sampha: Process

The film Sampha: Process, directed by Kahlil Joseph and released in 2017, is a deeply insightful and visually stunning cinematic experience that not only seeks to document but also to reveal the transformative journey of the eponymous artist, Sampha. Starring real-life singer-songwriter Sampha Sisay, better known as just Sampha, alongside Liran Nathan, this musical documentary transcends typical narrative boundaries to create an embodiment of the artistic process.

The film provides a multilayered look into Sampha's life and the significance it holds for his music, motorized by two interconnected components. It is a dreamlike fusion of live performance, personal exploration, and visual experimentation. Through the deft use of visual transformations, Sampha's work and artistic process are translated into a shared cinematic journey, capturing the vibrancy and vitality of his music.

The film starts in London where we're introduced to Sampha as a regular guy, not as the highly acclaimed musical artist. The intimate home videos and imagery provide a sense of authenticity and open up doors to Sampha's personality and musical origins. We get to sail alongside him in this journey of self-discovery and realization. From these London roots, the film takes us beyond the boundaries of this world and into the vibrant sphere of his motherland, Sierra Leone.

The juxtaposition of London and Sierra Leone is not only geographical but also emotional. Sierra Leone serves as the thread connecting the past sorrows, the present realities, and the future hopes for Sampha. The panoramic shots and the subtle details of the landscape in both worlds are a testament to Joseph's distinct oeuvre, foregrounding the profound impact these ecosystems have had on Sampha as a person and an artist.

Where Liran Nathan's performance offers contrast to Sampha's experiences, making their interactions pivotal to the film's narrative. He serves to spotlight Sampha's introspective nature and introspections into the impact of his origin, his craft, and his familial bonds. Nathan moves through the film as an observer, a reflective mirror image of Sampha, providing contrast and texture to his experiences.

Moreover, the movie showcases a number of Sampha's live performances, including renditions of his songs from his critically acclaimed album, also titled 'Process'. These performances give the audience an opportunity to apprehend the potent energy that Sampha's music possesses. It resonates with his emotional journey, creating a stirring synergy that transcends the screen and connects directly with the viewer.

While the music forms an integral part of the narrative, the themes of displacement, identity, and mortality are woven seamlessly into the film. As the narrative progresses, we're privy to the process of Sampha's growth – not just as an artist coming to terms with his international stardom – but as an individual navigating his ancestral roots and personal losses.

Moreover, the film delves into the raw soul of Sampha's music. His distinctive voice presents a hauntingly beautiful combination of soul, R&B, and electronic music, acting as the film's heartbeat. Along with the stunning visuals and sublime cinematography, Sampha's globe-trotting journey is characterized by his melodies, providing a soulful backdrop that amplifies the emotional intensity of the film.

A noteworthy element in ‘Sampha: Process’ is the profound vulnerability and openness of Sampha. His trials, triumphs, and tribulations are laid bare, culminating in a captivating and intensely emotional audio-visual experience. The movie uncovers the mysterious, soft-spoken figure behind the music, revealing an artist who is not only deeply grounded in his roots but also perpetually pushing creative frontiers.

The film, Sampha: Process is indeed a cerebral exploration of the connection between an artist’s music and his experiences, the transformation of personal grief into musical expression, and the struggle of balancing personal heritage with the demands of global stardom. More than a documentary about a rising star, it is a raw, intimate, and poetic exploration of artistry, identity, and humanity.

In conclusion, Sampha: Process is a masterwork of poetic storytelling. It perfectly intertwines the emotionally resonant themes of artistic creation, heritage, and personal loss with an adept visual style. Overall, Sampha: Process shines a vibrant light, not only on Sampha's music but on the experiences that truly make the man behind the music. The soulful melody, the stunning visuals, and the touching tale of growth in 'Sampha: Process' promise an evocative cinematic journey.