Atlantics

| 2019

Directed by: Mati Diop

Main Plot

Atlantics follows the story of a group of young men in Senegal who embark on a perilous journey across the ocean in search of a better life in Europe. Among them is Souleiman, who leaves behind his love, Ada, as he seeks to escape the economic hardships of his homeland. When the men go missing at sea, Ada is left to navigate her grief and societal expectations. As the narrative unfolds, Ada is forced into an arranged marriage with a wealthy suitor, while she secretly longs for Souleiman. The film intertwines themes of love, loss, and the struggle for freedom, as supernatural elements emerge, reflecting the deep emotional and cultural ties that bind the characters to their homeland. The story ultimately explores the impact of migration on personal lives and the haunting memories of those who seek a different destiny.

Characters

  • Mame Bineta Sane plays Ada, a young woman in Dakar torn between love and societal expectations, whose lover's mysterious disappearance drives the film's supernatural and emotional narrative.
  • Amadou Mbow plays Issa, a construction worker who dies at sea. His spirit returns to seek justice for unpaid wages, driving the supernatural elements of the story.
  • Traore is a police officer investigating the mysterious disappearances and supernatural occurrences linked to migrant workers in Dakar. His role is pivotal in uncovering the truth.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Atlantics, the narrative culminates in a powerful resolution that intertwines themes of love, loss, and resilience. After the tragic disappearance of the fishermen, including Souleiman, the film shifts to the aftermath of their presumed deaths. Aisha, left to navigate her grief, finds herself in a forced marriage with another man, which symbolizes societal constraints and the struggle for autonomy. The climax occurs when Aisha confronts the reality of her love for Souleiman, leading to a surreal and poignant moment where she encounters him in a dreamlike sequence. This moment blurs the lines between life and death, highlighting the emotional and spiritual connection that transcends physical absence. The film's resolution is marked by Aisha's defiance against the oppressive structures surrounding her, as she ultimately seeks to reclaim her agency. The final scenes reveal the consequences of the fishermen's journey, as the community grapples with loss while also igniting a sense of hope and resistance. The ending encapsulates the broader themes of migration, identity, and the fight for personal freedom, leaving viewers with a haunting yet hopeful reflection on love's enduring power amidst adversity.

Mati Diop Drama Fantasy Mystery Mame Bineta Sane Amadou Mbow Traore