In the previous edition, ‘Close’, directed by Lukas Dhont, managed to get a nomination for best foreign film. But this time, Baloji’s film failed to match that success. This year the shortlist consists of 15 films, but the Belgian film is no longer among them. Several European productions managed to get a place on the list and entries from Bhutan, Japan, Mexico, Morocco and Tunisia were also nominated.
The story of ‘Augure’ revolves around the main character, Koffi, who was rejected by his mother in Congo years ago due to alleged signs of a ‘zabolo’. In Swahili, ‘zabolo’ means something like sorcerer or magician, but with a negative connotation, referring to a demon or devil. Despite his better judgment, Koffi decides to return to the Congolese city of Lubumbashi with his pregnant girlfriend Alice to introduce her to his family. However, the couple is not warmly received, and Koffi personally experiences how deep-rooted traditions and persistent superstitions influence daily life.
The 96th edition of the Academy Awards is scheduled for March 10 next year in Los Angeles. The nominations for the film awards will be announced on January 23, 2024.
LOOK. These are the first images of ‘Augure’, the film by Belgian-Congolese director Baloji
2023-12-22 06:24:47
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