Synopsis.

In a vibrant urban neighborhood, the paths of Damas, Rosa, Nelson, Marcus and other identity-seeking souls intertwine, each facing personal challenges representing the black community's struggles against the oppressive dominant norms of society.

Rosa continually struggles with pressures to fit predominant beauty standards and seeks to break free from these expectations, seeking to redefine her own concept of beauty.

Nelson, an aging newspaper delivery boy, expresses the frustration of a generation faced with unfair working conditions and disillusionment with shattered dreams. His anger reflects the unease of those whose aspirations have been stifled in a world defined by restrictive standards.

Marcus, as the spiritual leader of the “red cap gang,” embodies resistance to assimilation. His group actively fights against oppressive influences, advocating emancipation through direct action rather than conforming to established norms.

This short film highlights the crucial importance of taking action to defend a threatened cultural identity and to free oneself from the constraints imposed by society. Each character represents a facet of this struggle, challenging established norms and positioning themselves for a future where the freedom of the black community is preserved, affirmed and celebrated.

Official preview

Director

Kossi A. SOSSAH

born in 1984 in Lomé, Togo, emigrated to Belgium in 1992. After studying political science and finance, his passion for cinema was born and he self-trained in this field.

For more than ten years, Kossi lived in Belgium without papers. During this time, he explored his love for cinema by directing music videos. His journey led him to create his first short film, “Pigments”.

Through cinema, Kossi explores crucial themes such as the life of the African diaspora in the West and questions around cultural identity. Its humble goal is to give voice to underrepresented stories and engage in meaningful discussions on these topics through cinematic art.

Photos.

from poems to short-film

Taking as inspiration the essence of Damas's work, this short film aims to free black men and women from any grip of guilt, thus encouraging them to act and engage in a fight against all forms of 'assimilation.

This short film seeks to empower the black community by challenging stereotypes and burdens imposed by history. It navigates between surrealism and reflection, offering a rereading of the current challenges faced by people of African origin (religion; cosmetics; job market; etc.). By breaking conventional norms while using established codes, it awakens critical consciousness and inspires the preservation of cultural identity without compromise.

It is a call to action, an artistic provocation aimed at stimulating awareness, pride and resilience within the community.

“PIGMENTS” thus presents itself as a means of emancipation, rooted in the spirit of rebellion against all forms of marginalization and standardization, offering a committed vision.

On festivals road...

Technical Team