Bamako

Aroview: A mock trial of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank – whose representatives must defend charges of reckless lending and debt-making in a makeshift outdoor court – forms the core of this shrewd, often scathing critique of third world exploitation.

Through humour, culture and political farce, dir. Sissako achieves an unusual and satirical blend lush with atmosphere and enriched by the Mali’s colourful, everday life (contrasted against heated courtroom proceedings). Meanwhile, Africa’s economic plight is foregrounded innovatively and rather angrily too, with damning evidence that’s hard to deny.

NZ International Film Festival 2007