“Omen”: A Trippy Ensemble Drama Set in Kinshasa Takes Audiences on a Wild Ride
Halfway through “Omen,” a trippy ensemble drama set in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, viewers are transported into a world where superstition reigns supreme and reality blurs with magic. The film follows the story of Tshala, played by Eliane Umuhire, as she tries to reason with Alice, the white fiancé of her big brother Koffi, played by Lucie Debay and Marc Zinga respectively.
Directed by Bajoli, a multidisciplinary artist and rapper whose name means “sorcerer” in Swahili, “Omen” explores the frenzied, magical, and gender-bending world of Congolese society. The film weaves together four loosely connected stories, each offering a unique perspective on life in Kinshasa.
From Koffi’s bitter homecoming to Tshala’s polyamorous relationship, and Mujila’s struggles after her husband’s death, the film delves into the complexities of Congolese culture. The most chaotic thread follows Paco, an orphan who leads a gang of tutu-wearing street kids, adding a Grimms’ fairy tale-like element to the narrative.
“Omen” is ambitious in its storytelling, incorporating mystical symbolism and vivid imagery to create a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. While the film’s frenetic world-building may become overwhelming at times, moments of quiet absurdity and human drama ground the spectacle.
In its exploration of marginalization and family dynamics, “Omen” offers a unique and immersive cinematic experience. With a running time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, the film is a must-see for audiences looking to be transported to a world where reality and magic collide. “Omen” is currently playing in theaters, inviting viewers to step into the mystical realm of Kinshasa.
