71
Metascore
9 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 83IndieWireSophie Monks KaufmanIndieWireSophie Monks KaufmanBanel & Adama is a striking debut that puts Sy on the map as a purveyor of deceptively gorgeous visions that show flimsy desires at the mercy of the social, and literal, weather.
- 81TheWrapSteve PondTheWrapSteve PondAt an hour and 27 minutes, the film has the feel of an exquisite miniature, succinct and evocative.
- 80The Irish TimesTara BradyThe Irish TimesTara BradyEvery beautiful frame casts a spell.
- 80Time OutPhil de SemlyenTime OutPhil de SemlyenFrom sombre Islamic prayers to café-touba-fuelled socialising, Banel & Adama is stitched beautifully together from the fabric of rural Senegalese traditions.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterLovia GyarkyeThe Hollywood ReporterLovia GyarkyeWith Banel & Adama, Ramata-Toulaye Sy has conjured a stunning world in need of a sharper story.
- 70VarietyJessica KiangVarietyJessica KiangSy’s film is a curious little fable, not quite fully formed in its final stages, and occasionally so sedate and opaque, under Bachar Mar-Khalifé’s melodic, piano-forward score, that it feels like it is drowsing. But it’s a striking debut nonetheless, especially as it revolves, with graceful poetry around the inner experiences of such a curious, unknowable woman.
- 70Little White LiesFatima SheriffLittle White LiesFatima SheriffWhile beautiful, the impression left by Banel & Adama is confusing.
- 60The GuardianPeter BradshawThe GuardianPeter BradshawWhile it is flawed, this film finds an assured place in the quietist tradition of African cinema with beautiful images and strong moments, and with relevant things to say about community, a woman’s place and the climate crisis.