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Martine Syms,Rocket Caleshu

The African Desperate

The African Desperate

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  • Condition: Brand new
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  • More about The African Desperate


The African Desperate is a debut film by acclaimed visual artist Martine Syms, following Palace Bryant on a long day in 2017, navigating self-actualization and the art world's fallacies. Shot through with Syms' conceptual grit, humor, social commentary, and vivid visual language, the film leads us through picturesque landscapes and artists' studios.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2022
Publisher: Nightboat Books


The African Desperate, the debut film by acclaimed visual artist Martine Syms, is a razor-sharp and deeply personal screenplay that delves into the comedic and intimate realms of its characters' lives.

The film follows Palace Bryant, a young artist navigating the complexities of self-actualization and the treacherous terrain of the art world. Set against the backdrop of a lush late summer, Palace embarks on a journey that takes her from her MFA graduation in upstate New York to a Chicago Blue Line Station.

Throughout her journey, Palace encounters a series of characters who reflect different aspects of her own identity and experiences. From academic critiques to backseat hookups, from the night of a wild graduation party to the morning of a lonely trip back home, the film explores the gamut of human emotions and relationships.

What sets The African Desperate apart is its celebrated conceptual grit, humor, social commentary, and vivid visual language. Syms' unique filmmaking style brings a fresh and innovative perspective to the screen, capturing the beauty of picturesque landscapes and the inner workings of artists' studios with a keen eye for detail.

The film's characters are well-developed and relatable, with their flaws and insecurities making them all the more human. Palace, in particular, is a compelling protagonist who struggles to find her place in the world and navigates the challenges of pursuing her artistic dreams while dealing with personal setbacks and relationships.

The African Desperate is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on the struggles and triumphs of young artists navigating the world of art. With its sharp screenplay, stunning visuals, and memorable characters, this film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling and the complexities of human relationships.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 134 x 214 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643621708

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