Review by Justin Bateman
Stars Eriya Ndayambaje, Roger Nsengiyumva, Sanyu Joanita Kintu, Yves Dusenge, Sherrie Silver, Emmanuel Jal, Presley Chweneyagae, Rapulana Seiphemo, Patrick Mofokeng
Written by Rhidian Brook
Certification UK 12A
Runtime 88 minutes
Directed by Debs Gardner-Paterson
Shown as part of the 2010 London Film Festival, Africa United tells the tale of two Rwandan boys, Fabrice (Nsengiyumva) and Dudu (Ndayambaje). While the former comes from a wealthy family and possesses some truly silky football skills, the latter lives in poverty with his young sister Beatrice (Kintu) and makes whatever money he can from the streets. When a FIFA scout spots Fabrice in the village, as his self-appointed manager Dudu is on hand to guide the would-be star to a trial. But when they get on the wrong bus the race is on to reach the opening ceremony of the World Cup thousands of miles away in South Africa.
In recent years, films set in Rwanda have been almost universally bleak and with good reason. So it's wonderful to see such a positive film come out of the war-torn country. Essentially a road movie, this has the distinction of having kids as the stars which ensures this will have a wide audience beyond football fans. For although the World Cup is the ultimate goal (ha ha), this is really a story about friendship and overcoming obstacles as a team - "the team of the dream."
As well as the stunning scenery that central Africa has to offer, interspersed into the film is an animated story told by Dudu and inspired by stories and ideas from African children providing it with an extra slice of visual life. The actors, and in particular Ndayambaje are excellent and helped by a witty script from Rhidian Brook which not only delivers character-based humour but also has plenty to say about the modern game for the cognoscenti. As Dudu says when they lose their stash of cash, "Money isn't everything. Just look at Real Madrid."
Amongst all the fun and sunshine are woven more serious messages and HIV is given particular prominence as their makeshift football of choice is made using an inflated condom. There's also a short-lived sub-plot regarding being forced into being a child soldier which feels slightly forced and in terms of tone is at odds with the upbeat vibe. But simplistic though it is at times, this is a funny and entertaining film with a heartfelt and uplifting message.
• Africa United at IMDb