Neither Channels nor Masters, available on VOD, deserves to be seen, discussed and celebrated for what it is: a cry for freedom and a lesson in hope.
French cinema, often criticized for its lack of diversity and its reluctance to confront major historical questions head-on, found a powerful voice in Neither chains nor masters. First feature film by Simon Moutaïrou, the film is a milestone in the representation of historical stories linked to slavery and browning. By recounting the quest for freedom of Massamba and his daughter Mati in the Île de France (now Mauritius) of the 18th century, the director offers a work that is both poignant and essential.
Presented in world premiere at the 2024 Deauville Festival in the “Window on French Cinema” section, Neither chains nor masters immediately captivated critics and spectators. Journalist Falila Gbadamassi, from France Info, speaks of a “ powerful chronicle of resistance to slavery » where the staging mixes “ action, thriller and fantasy “. For Eva Sauphie of Young Africathe film is a “ necessary story testifying to the process of freeing slaves by themselves “, while France Antilles describes the work as “ raw and powerful fiction in the service of History ».
With an average of 3.4/5 on Allociné, the film is part of a rare but important tradition of French stories exploring the scars left by slavery. These reviews highlight not only the historical importance of the film, but also its ability to reach a wide audience thanks to immersive production and unforgettable acting performances.
Neither chains nor masters stands out for its carefully thought-out aesthetic. Director Simon Moutaïrou juxtaposes the idyllic landscapes of Mauritius – the vibrant greens and deep blues – with the brutality of slavery. This powerful contrast echoes the words of Moutaïrou, who describes the island as an “Eden sullied by an original crime”. This care given to the cinematography is reinforced by the music of Amine Bouhafa, which transcends the scenes, transforming each sequence into a poetic meditation on resilience and the quest for freedom.
The casting choices also enhance the emotional impact of the film. Ibrahima Mbaye embodies with rare intensity the character of Massamba, whose determination to protect his daughter transcends the visible and invisible chains of slavery. Thiandoum Anna Diakhere, who plays Mati, brings freshness and depth to her role as a young woman ready to brave the unimaginable to escape oppression. As for Camille Cottin, her interpretation of Madame La Victoire, a slave hunter, is chilling, reminding us that History is also shaped by antagonistic figures.
Neither chains nor masters tackles head-on a historical memory that has long been marginalized in French cinema. Where Hollywood has long explored stories of slavery, this work ventures into territory that is still little explored in France. Inspired by the research of historians such as Amédée Nagapenthe film manages to balance historical fidelity and dramatic storytelling, providing a nuanced reflection on the struggles of Maroon slaves.
The film doesn’t just tell history; it resonates with contemporary debates on inequalities, colonial memory and the place of Afro-descendant narratives in the arts. By centering its story on black characters, Neither chains nor masters reverses traditional perspectives, reminding us that slaves were not simple victims, but also agents of their own liberation.
-Upon its release, the film recorded promising performance at the box office, attracting 13,338 spectators from day one and accumulating 119,285 entries in the first week. These figures demonstrate the public’s appetite for works that explore complex and emotionally rich subjects. Its selection at Deauville and its broadcast at other prestigious festivals confirm its status as a major production.
The work has also sparked discussions outside of cinemas. Academics, such as Emmanuel Garnier of the CNRS, have praised its quasi-documentary approach, while activists have highlighted its role in deconstructing Eurocentric narratives.
Neither chains nor masters is much more than a film. It is an invitation to reflect on the legacies of the past and their resonance in the present. By diving into a dark period in history, it illuminates the struggles for dignity and freedom, reminding us that these struggles are not confined to the past.
In conclusion, this first feature film by Simon Moutaïrou marks a turning point in French cinema. Through its visual power, its committed narration and its unforgettable performances, Neither chains nor masters positions itself as an essential work for anyone interested in History and humanity.
This film, available on VOD, deserves to be seen, discussed and celebrated for what it is: a cry for freedom and a lesson in hope.
