Congolese Film-maker Djo Munga wrote and directed the 'very' sexy 2010 drama-action-thriler entitled 'Viva Riva'; set in the Congo. I'd seen the snazzy posters last year at the Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival and missed out on seeing it, and although I found it quite gruesome and grisly, I applaud Munga for creating a gritty, and exemplary film.
Plenty of violence and sex, but once viewers get past that, they are able to enjoy a clever plot and touching story of a rat-race that always goes wrong. Lovely tight-framed and interesting shots, disturbing yet existing surroundings and heart-warming and thought-provoking dialogue, it was enough to get us all on the edge of our seats. Just think of an African-type Tarantino film laced in 'Scarface'-fueled splendour! Numerous amounts of new talent but they all delivered and kept the story moving forward; our main characters, Patsha Bay who plays the dapper and bad-boy everyone wants, Riva, and Manie Malone, born African raised in France, plays the spoiled and abused sex-bombshell, Nora. The story flowed because of the believability of the characters and the high intensity throughout.
With a humble budget of $10,000 USD, the film not only won awards and several nominations, but has been talked about as an African Action cult film and has doubled it's money in ticket-sales. If you like 'gangster', 'film noir', 'brutal charm' and 'seduction'; then you'll love 'Viva Riva'! :)
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