'On Becoming a Guinea Fowl' Tackles Sexual Violence

Rungano Nyoni's film 'On Becoming a Guinea Fowl' delves into sexual violence in Zambia through the story of Shula, a woman who returns home to confront her past. The film opens with a surreal scene involving Shula dressed as Missy Elliott, discovering her uncle Fred's body, a known sexual predator within her family. This revelation challenges the family's intent to lionize Fred despite his horrific actions, encapsulating the tension between cultural customs and personal trauma. The film explores themes of patriarchal conservatism and the silent suffering of women in a society that often discourages speaking ill of the dead. Shula's journey reflects a broader cultural shift as younger Zambians, influenced by global movements like #MeToo, begin to challenge traditional taboos surrounding sexual violence. Nyoni's work blends realism with magical elements, offering a poignant critique of societal norms and the power of silence in perpetuating abuse.