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Jonah

Jonah (2013)

Jan 16, 2013 17m Fantasy

Mbwana and his best friend Juma are two young men with big dreams. These dreams become reality when they photograph a gigantic fish leaping out of the sea and their small town blossoms into a tourist hot-spot as a result. But for Mbwana, the reality isn't what he dreamed – and when he meets the fish again, both of them forgotten, ruined and old, he decides only one of them can survive. Jonah is a big fish story about the old and the new, and the links and the distances between them. A visual feast, shot though with humour and warmth, it tells an old story in a completely new way.

Directed by Kibwe Tavares

Cast

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Daniel Kaluuya
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Daniel Kaluuya

as Mbwana

Malachi Kirby
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Malachi Kirby

as Juma

Louis Mahoney
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Louis Mahoney

as Old Mbwana

Crew

Director
  • Kibwe Tavares
Writer
  • Jack Thorne
Producer
  • Fiz Oliver
  • Ivana MacKinnon
  • Sarah Wheale

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Thematic Analysis

Jonah represents a fascinating example of Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Kibwe Tavares brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Jonah took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 17 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 37 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1622 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 229 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2013, when this film is released:
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Jonah shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Castling (An Aquarium Confession), which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Jonah subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Der lange Weg ans Licht and The Snows of Kilimanjaro explore similar territory, Jonah stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 16, 2013
  • Runtime: 17m

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Castling (An Aquarium Confession)
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The Snows of Kilimanjaro
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