Benda Bilili!

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Benda Bilili! is a 2010 documentary film that follows the journey of the Congolese band Staff Benda Bilili. The film was directed by Renaud Barret and Florent de La Tullaye and provides an in-depth look at the lives of the band members, who are primarily paraplegic and homeless, as they rise to international fame.

Plot

The documentary begins in the streets of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It introduces the members of Staff Benda Bilili, a group of street musicians who use homemade instruments and perform a unique blend of Congolese rumba, soukous, and other African musical styles. The band members, many of whom are disabled due to polio, live in extreme poverty but are united by their passion for music.

The film follows the band's journey from their humble beginnings to their discovery by the filmmakers, who help them record their first album, Très Très Fort. The documentary captures the band's struggles and triumphs as they navigate the challenges of recording and promoting their music, ultimately leading to their international success.

Band Members

• Ricky Likabu - The leader of the band, who is determined to make a better life for himself and his fellow musicians.
• Coco Ngambali - A guitarist and vocalist who plays a key role in the band's sound.
• Theo Nsituvuidi - A percussionist who contributes to the band's rhythm section.
• Roger Landu - A young prodigy who plays the satonge, a single-stringed instrument he invented himself.

Production

The film was shot over a period of five years, from 2004 to 2009. Directors Renaud Barret and Florent de La Tullaye first encountered the band while working on another project in Kinshasa. They were struck by the band's talent and resilience and decided to document their journey.

Reception

Benda Bilili! premiered at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival in the Directors' Fortnight section. The film received critical acclaim for its inspiring story and the powerful music of Staff Benda Bilili. It has been praised for its honest portrayal of the band's struggles and the vibrant culture of Kinshasa.

Impact

The success of the documentary brought international attention to Staff Benda Bilili and helped them secure tours and performances around the world. The film also highlighted the challenges faced by disabled individuals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and brought awareness to the power of music as a tool for social change.

See Also

• Staff Benda Bilili
• Congolese rumba
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• 2010 Cannes Film Festival