»Mama Afrika – Miriam Makeba«

Miriam Makeba: singer of the century

She was the voice of Africa. For more than half a century, Miriam Makeba (1932–2008) sang all around the world in opposition to racism and poverty, and for justice and peace. »I don’t sing politics«, Makeba once said. »I simply sing the truth«. The Finnish director Mika Kaurismäki has now captured her eventful life and powerful music in a compelling documentary. The film features concert recordings of global hits such as »Pata Pata«, and documents her battle against the apartheid regime and her escape into exile in America, complete with contributions from friends and companions. »This moving homage vividly brings the memory of Miriam Makebe to life«, writes the Berliner Zeitung. The film is now being broadcast as part of the »Reflektor« festival curated by the star singer from Benin, Angélique Kidjo, another tireless campaigner for human rights and self-determination.