Night of the Kings

This captivating hybrid of a movie mixes fairy-tale and storytelling elements with a vividly drawn backdrop of heightened realism" 

"Though hampered by some shaky third-act visual effects, 'Night of the Kings' is through and through an intoxicating and immersive visual experience even as it unfolds almost like a filmed play." 

"Lacôte’s film features stories within stories and can be downright confusing to follow, but is never less than mesmerizing" 

"Though Lacôte’s deft juggling of multiple interweaving stories is impressive, what ultimately makes 'Night of the Kings' so special is how clearly the director depicts the power in telling a story" 

"The film most likely work better for those with knowledge of the Ivory Coast (...) but that doesn’t mean those like me who are ignorant to that strife outside of what Lacôte and Roman provide can’t still enjoy the magic on display" 

"That a film so frequently harrowing can so often feel joyous without every trivializing the state of its characters’ imprisonment is a testament to the way that Lacôte resolutely finds the meaning embedded within ritual (…) Rating: ★★★ (out of 4)" 

"The mystery and vitality of 'Night of the Kings' makes it a near-singular viewing experience. It’s a challenge, but one worth taking."