Sukari Review: A Refreshing Take on Intimacy in Marriage

I’m a big fan of short films. I love to see how well a writer can tell a story with the limitations of time – a challenge Sukari takes on and executes spectacularly.

Sukari is a thoughtful and culturally resonant Kenyan short film that explores the intimate struggles of a middle-aged Muslim couple from the coastal region. Directed with sensitivity and nuance, the film tackles the often taboo subject of sexual satisfaction within marriage, particularly from a traditional perspective.

The story centers on Abbas, portrayed with compelling authenticity by Jumaa Mdoe. His journey from embarrassment to enlightenment forms the heart of the narrative. Sukari skillfully uses allegory, such as the sweetness of tea, to mirror Abbas’s personal growth and the state of his marital intimacy.

One of the film’s strengths lies in its honest depiction of a man grappling with societal expectations and personal inadequacies. The progression of Abbas’s attempts to address the issue, from misguided internet searches to well-meaning but problematic advice from colleagues, spotlights the challenges faced by many Kenyan men in similar situations.

The chemistry between Abbas and his wife Qadra, played by Mumtaz Dhulfiqar Ibrahim, is clearly evident and adds great depth to their on-screen relationship. Their interactions feel genuine, allowing the audience to empathize with their struggle.

Despite the short runtime, Sukari excels in its portrayal of the supporting characters. Musa and Suleiman serve distinct purposes in Abbas’s journey, each offering very different approaches to addressing marital issues. The film subtly critiques the notion of quick fixes and magnifies the importance of open communication between partners.

Visually, Sukari is a delight. The Director of Photography, Mohamed Zanudin, captures the coastal setting masterfully, including the Swahili house designs and the picturesque sunsets. The attention to detail in framing the characters and focusing on subtle expressions without relying heavily on dialogue really stood out for me.

I’m wary of films that focus too much on themes rather than entertainment, yet Sukari manages to balance between the two effortlessly. It bravely addresses the lack of education and open discussion about intimacy in Kenyan society without taking away the fun factor of the misguided attempts Abbas uses to fix his marriage.

The screenplay by Omar Hamza and June Wairegi deserves a lot of praise for its wholesome character development and well-paced narrative. In a short runtime, they manage to create fully realized characters and a compelling arc that feels neither rushed nor incomplete. I’m eager to see future projects that Hamza and Wairegi are cooking up.

Sukari is more than just entertainment; it’s a conversation starter, a gentle nudge towards more open discussions about marital intimacy in traditional societies. The key ingredient to a happy marriage isn’t found in X-rated videos or well-meaning advice from friends. It’s all about communication, seasoned with a generous helping of love and understanding. You’ll get that last part once you watch the final scene.

If you missed the premiere of Sukari on September 6, you can watch it on September 20 at 7 PM on Docubox.