The Kings (2021) | Night Of

Bakary Koné, Steve Tientcheu, and Jean Cyrille Digbeu. Genre: Fantasy / Drama. Language: French / Dioula. Runtime: 1 hour 33 minutes. Reception and Awards

It was Côte d'Ivoire's official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards. Night of the Kings (2021)

The film was highly acclaimed for its unique narrative structure and cinematography: Bakary Koné, Steve Tientcheu, and Jean Cyrille Digbeu

Reviewers from Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic praised it as an "almost mythical" celebration of imagination that feels unlike contemporary cinema. Runtime: 1 hour 33 minutes

(French: La Nuit des rois ) is a 2020 fantasy drama film that saw its wide release in 2021. Written and directed by Ivorian filmmaker Philippe Lacôte, the film is a vibrant exploration of the power of storytelling set within the confines of a notorious prison. Plot Summary

The story follows a young man who is sent to , an Ivorian prison ruled by its inmates rather than guards. Upon his arrival, the prison's leader, known as the "Boss," designates him the new "Roman" during the rising of a red moon. Under the threat of death, he is tasked with telling a story to the other prisoners that must last the entire night.

The protagonist recounts the legend of a legendary outlaw named Zama King, blending history and myth through a performance that incorporates song, dance, and ritual. Release Date: February 26, 2021 (Digital/VOD). Director: Philippe Lacôte.