Something Necessary is a 2013 Kenyan drama film that tells the story of a woman named Anne who tries to rebuild her life after the violence and destruction caused by the 2008 post-election violence in Kenya. The film stars Sue Wanjiru, Qdamah Kipchumba, and David Kiprotich Mutai in lead roles. The film opens with a heart-wrenching scene of Anne lying unconscious in a hospital bed, surrounded by her family. The flashbacks reveal that Anne had suffered from brutal injuries during the violence, and her husband was killed. After her release from the hospital, Anne returns to her farm, determined to rebuild her life despite the trauma and devastation she has endured.
However, the reconstruction of her farm is a daunting task, with the missing husband, scarce resources, and the ever-present threat of the government's eviction notices to farmers. The film portrays the struggles of Anne, as she attempts to reclaim her land, find a means of income, and come to terms with her painful past.
The film is beautifully shot and captures the scenic beauty of rural Kenya's landscape. The audiences get a glimpse into the daily life of a Kenyan farmer, from the hardworking laborers in the fields to the bustling marketplace where Anne makes a living selling her produce. We see the vibrant cultures and the strong sense of community that unites the cast and crew.
Apart from the central theme of post-electoral violence, the film delves into the psychological impact of trauma and how it affects people, their families, and communities. It also exposes the bureaucracy that affects the daily lives of people in rural settings, particularly those trying to rebuild after a violent conflict.
The lead actors, particularly Sue Wanjiru as Anne, and Qdamah Kipchumba as her successful but estranged cousin, provide excellent performances that reflect the resilience and vulnerability of their characters. David Kiprotich Mutai, who plays Joseph, the murdered husband, is limited to the flashbacks, but his presence has weight in the film's central theme.
Something Necessary was directed by the German filmmaker, Judy Kibinge, who co-wrote the script with Sarah Bouyain. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2013, where it was received positively by the audience and critics alike. It has since screened in various film festivals worldwide and won several awards, including the Sembene Ousmane Prize at the Luxor African Film Festival in 2014.
In conclusion, Something Necessary is a poignant drama that portrays the aftermath of violence and conflict in Kenya. It is a film that not only captures the beauty of the Kenyan landscape but the resilience of its people in the face of adversity. It is a must-see for anyone interested in African cinema or those seeking to understand the human cost of violence and trauma.
Something Necessary is a 2013 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.
