Death and the King's Horseman

In British-occupied Nigeria, a Yoruba king, the Alafin, has died, and it is the duty of his horseman, Elesin, to accompany him into the afterlife. While lustily enjoying the pleasures of this world, Elesin proudly anticipates his transition to the next – but the sacred ritual is interrupted, resulting in unforeseen tragedy. Inspired by a real-life incident, this masterpiece from Nobel Prize winner Soyinka celebrates a community striving to uphold its culture in the face of colonial power.

Director: Tawiah M'Carthy

Cast: Anthony Santiago, Amaka Umeh, Graham Abbey, Kwaku Adu-Poku, Akosua Amo-Adem, Maev Beaty, Josue Laboucane, Pulga Muchochoma

Audience-only score — full critic data not yet in the ReelXO vault.