aKasha (2018)

LOST IN THE DESERT OF MISFIRED PUNCHLINES

Weaving a story of personal struggles, cultural clashes, and unexpected connections, aKasha is an interesting film that takes a shot at combining humour and action in a unique way, but unfortunately, ends up firing blanks more often than hitting the target.  

Set against the backdrop of a remote desert town, the film follows the journey of Adnan (Kamal Ramadan), a young and inexperienced rebel soldier, as he finds himself entangled in a delicate situation during a tense ceasefire. Adnan's path crosses with Absi (Ganja Chakado), a seasoned war veteran who carries a heavy burden from his past. Absi is on a mission to retrieve a stolen truckload of weaponry that could reignite the conflict. However, he's not alone in this endeavour. His wife, Fatima, reluctantly accompanies him, her presence a constant reminder of the fractured relationship between them. As Adnan, Absi, and Fatima navigate the harsh terrain, their interactions are a blend of awkward humour and simmering tension. The dynamic between them resembles a delicate dance, each step fraught with the potential for disaster. The trio's journey takes unexpected turns as they encounter various challenges – from rival soldiers and nomadic tribes to sandstorms that seem to mirror the turmoil within.

aKasha plays out like an offbeat comedy. Writer and director Hajooj Kuka shows that he possesses some comedic ammunition, however most of the humour falls flat, failing to hit the mark. This could be down to punchlines misfiring somewhere in translation. The action sequences aim high, but the delivery often lacks the bang we've come to expect from modern action films. While there are some moments that get your heart racing, most of the time you're left waiting for that adrenaline rush that never quite arrives.

The film does however manage to capture the essence of Sudanese culture, painting a vivid picture of the setting and providing a glimpse into a world that's not often explored in mainstream cinema. The cinematography, at times, hits the mark, capturing breathtaking landscapes and intimate moments with precision. It should also be noted that writer/director Hajooj Kuka is also on cinematography duties, is there anything this man can’t do?

In the end, aKasha is a poignant exploration of the human experience within a landscape scarred by conflict. It showcases the power of unexpected connections and the potential for change, even in the midst of desolation. Through its beautifully shot desert landscapes and well-crafted characters, the film invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of identity, loyalty, and the search for inner peace. Unfortunately, the film does struggle to find its rhythm though, leaving you with a sense of missed opportunities. While it's not a complete misfire, it's far from a bullseye. If you're looking for a film that has its moments, a few laughs, and a smattering of action, aKasha might scratch that itch. Just don't expect it to blow you away.

★★★☆☆

10 JUNE 2019