River Niger, Black Mother

River Niger, Black Mother follows the 4184-kilometer-long River Niger from its source in Guinea through Mali, Niger and Benin to Nigeria. A passionate ode to the river, the cultures that have arisen on its shores and its role in African history, accompanied by a lyrical commentary.

Directed by Ola Balogun, River Niger, Black Mother leans on a strong ensemble — Lamine Konte, Daniel Kamwa — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1989.