This is the time of year when various countries around the world submit their picks to be entered into the Best International Film category for the Oscars. And for the Dominican Republic, the choice is none other than Ivan Herrera’s “Bantú Mama.”
As seen in the new trailer, “Bantú Mama” tells the story of a French woman who is on the run in the Dominican Republic. The only salvation she finds is with a group of children in the most dangerous district of Santo Domingo. While there, she becomes their maternal figure and her entire life changes.
“Bantú Mama” is directed by Ivan Herrera, who also co-wrote the film alongside Clarisse Albrecht. In addition to co-writing and producing the film, Albrecht also stars in the lead role. The film has been sitting on the shelf for a little bit, originally debuting at the 2021 SXSW Film Festival. However, more than a year-and-a-half later, the film is finally getting released for the world to see, and perhaps, it’ll even earn potential Oscars recognition.
“Bantú Mama” is set to arrive on Netflix on November 17. You can watch the new trailer below.
Here’s the synopsis:
In BANTÚ MAMA, a French woman of African descent manages to escape after being arrested in the Dominican Republic. She finds shelter in the most dangerous district of Santo Domingo, where she is taken in by a group of children. By becoming their protégée and maternal figure, she experiences an unimaginable change in her destiny.