How to Become a Pearl: A Surreal Exploration of Family Secrets

In the realm of cinematic storytelling, few films manage to combine surrealism with the raw, unfiltered truths of family dynamics like Becoming a Pearl. This vivid story takes place on an empty road in the middle of the night, where a young woman, Shula, discovers the lifeless body of her uncle. As the film unfolds, viewers are drawn into a web of hidden secrets that encompass the complexities of a middle-class Zambian family. This unique perspective offers a compelling exploration of the lies we tell ourselves and the haunting truths that lie beneath the surface.

Setting: A Night of Revelations

The film opens with a haunting atmosphere that immediately captivates the audience. Shula’s encounter with her uncle’s body is the catalyst for the unfolding drama. The empty road symbolizes a journey not only through physical space, but also through emotional landscapes of grief, denial, and revelation. The stark contrasts of the night and the vibrant colors enhance the surreal experience and invite the audience to delve deeper into the story.

Character Dynamics: Unraveling Family Secrets

Shula and her cousins play a pivotal role in unraveling the intricate tapestry of their family history. Their interactions span love and resentment, highlighting the complexities that often exist in family relationships. As the funeral procession begins, the cousins begin to confront long-held secrets that have shaped their identities and shared family history. This exploration of character dynamics is essential to understanding the film’s main themes.

Shulo’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
The influence of family expectations on personal decisions.
Confronting past traumas and their consequences for the future.

Thematic elements: lies and truths

At its core, “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” is a film about the lies we tell ourselves and the truths we often avoid. The title itself suggests a transformation, perhaps reflecting the characters’ struggle to come to terms with their reality. The symbolism of the guinea fowl, a bird often associated with family and community in Zambian culture, emphasizes the importance of connections and the importance of family obligations.

Throughout the film, the characters struggle with their identity. to their family history. The secrets they uncover are not only personal, but also resonate with broader social themes and invite viewers to reflect on their own stories. This universal exploration of truth and deception is what has made the film so captivating to audiences across cultures.

Cinematography and Style: A Visual Feast

One of the standout features of Becoming a Guinea Fowl is its stunning cinematography. The visual storytelling complements the surreal elements of the narrative and creates a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The use of color, light, and shadow adds emotional weight to the film and draws the audience into Shula’s world.

Rungano Nyoni’s distinctive style is drawn from a variety of influences, making the film unique and engaging. . The mix of humor and tragedy adds depth to the story and allows the audience to connect with the characters on multiple levels. Surrealist elements emphasize the absurdity of certain situations, while vivid imagery keeps the story grounded in reality.