“A director’s poetic gaze at people he knows and a place with which he is emotionally connected.” —Kamera

A teenage boy, likely a future filmmaker, visits his mother in Mauritania on his way to Europe. As in his previous films, Abderrahmane Sissako moves us with exquisite imagery rather than with narrative drive. Although Waiting for Happiness never leaves Africa, its treatment of migration and diaspora is more profound than that of many “immigration” films. Focusing on slow but crucial processes such as learning a language or practicing a musical instrument, the film meditates beautifully on its subjects with captivating light and framing, and masterly filmmaking. Music by Oumou Sangare and Anouar Brahem. Winner of the grand prize at FESPACO 2003. 2002, France/Mauritania, 35mm, in French, Hassanya, and Mandarin, with English subtitles, 90 minutes.

Meet the Filmmaker

This screening is introduced by Abderrahmane Sissako. Join the director for a post-screening discussion led by Cherif Keita, Carleton College.