Tåg i Afrika

About This Movie

Tåg i Afrika is this fascinating documentary shot in 1964, where Bo Bjelfvenstam takes us along for a long train ride across Nigeria. The train journey from Kano to Lagos stretches over 36 hours, and you really feel the essence of the places he passes through. The pacing is slow, almost meditative at times, allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of the landscapes and people. The lack of a conventional narrative lets the visuals tell their own stories, and it's interesting how the practical effects of the journey itself become a key player in the film. A unique slice of time, capturing both the beauty and complexity of Nigeria during this period. Definitely not your mainstream fare, but it has its own charm.

Tåg i Afrika remains a somewhat elusive title among collectors, often overshadowed by more well-known documentaries from the same era. Originally released on limited formats, it hasn't seen much in terms of reissues, which adds to its scarcity. The film's distinct observational style and historical context have garnered interest from those who appreciate authentic portrayals of mid-20th century Africa, making it a curious piece for collectors looking to expand their documentary library.