Cycles

About This Movie

Cycles, a 1989 film by Zeinabu Irene Davis, offers a deeply personal exploration of womanhood through the lens of African spirituality. The pacing is contemplative, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the protagonist's rituals and emotional landscape. The film’s atmosphere is a blend of tension and serenity, mirroring the character’s internal struggle as she awaits her period. The use of practical effects to depict the spiritual elements feels almost grounded, enhancing the dreamlike sequences where she connects with the Orishas. Performances are intimate; the lead captures the nuances of anxiety and hope with subtlety. It's distinctive in how it weaves cultural practices into a narrative that feels both timeless and very much rooted in the personal.

Unique blend of African rituals and personal narrative.Intimate performances that draw you into the character's psyche.Contemplative pacing allows for deep emotional engagement.