Woubi Chéri
Woubi Chéri

Movie spotlight

Woubi Chéri

1998
Movie
62 min
French

This documentary shows a few days in the life of various members of Abdijan, Ivory Coast's gay and transgender community. We get to meet a variety of woubis, yossis, etc. The hero/heroine of the film is a statuesque young man named Barbara who is organising the annual year-end party of the Ivory Coast Tranvestite Association, to be held December 27, 1997.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Laurent ChevalierGenres: Documentary, LGBTQ+

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the vibrant and often hidden world of drag queens in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. It offers an intimate look at their lives, performances, and the challenges they face in a society that often misunderstands or condemns their lifestyle. The film explores themes of identity, community, and resilience within this unique subculture.

Critical Reception

Woubi Chéri received critical acclaim for its sensitive and respectful portrayal of the drag queen community in Abidjan. It was praised for its insightful look into a subculture rarely explored in Western cinema, highlighting the performers' artistry and their struggle for acceptance. The film is noted for its vibrant energy and its ability to connect with audiences on a human level.

What Reviewers Say

  • A visually striking and empathetic exploration of Abidjan's drag scene.

  • Offers a rare and important glimpse into the lives and struggles of its subjects.

  • Praised for its celebratory yet honest depiction of identity and performance.

Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available from Google reviews for this specific documentary.

Awards & Accolades

Screened at various film festivals including the Toronto International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The term 'Woubi' in the film's title refers to a type of spirit or supernatural being in West African Vodun culture, often associated with transformation and the unseen.

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