Unfortunately for most Americans, the name Ethiopia brings up images of “starving children in Africa,” from the 80s. Thankfully for those in the know, Ethiopia (and other countries in Africa) have been pushing filmmaking forward for the past decade with decidedly unique motion pictures.
Crumbs is no different. Set in a post-apocoptlyptic world, the film follows two characters–Birdy and Candy–as they navigate a decidedly jarring version of the future. The film, whom the Hollywood Reporter calls “outlandish” may not be for everyone, but it’s overwhelmingly positive reception at the Rotterdam Film Festival (and tentative US-distribution rights) will ensure the film will continue to gain buzz at film festivals for the coming year.
While US-based adaptations of Black culture are stuck in the past–check 12 Years a Slave or Selma–Africa is definitely looking toward the future. Films such as Chigger Ale, and Pumzi are getting shine, and the wider distribution of white South African Neill Blomkamp (Chappie, District 9) are opening up doors to the continent.
We’ll let you know when you can access Crumbs soon.
[vimeo]https://vimeo.com/116239059[/vimeo]