Ima is a 2022 French romantic comedy film directed by Nils Tavernier and co-written with Richard Bean and Laurent Bertoni, based on an original idea by the French-Congolese singer Dadju, who also stars in the lead role. The film was shot in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and released theatrically in France on 11 May 2022.[1][2][3]
Dadju, a popular French music artist, returns to his native Kinshasa for a concert. Laetitia, one of his most devoted fans, is disappointed to learn that tickets are sold out. She convinces her father to pull strings through his wealthy employer to arrange a private performance. The businessman agrees, hoping to impress Ima, Laetitia’s sister. During this intimate concert, Dadju is instantly drawn to Ima, setting the stage for a cross-cultural romance.[4]
The film was officially announced in July 2021 during the Cannes Film Festival, where Dadju revealed he was preparing his acting debut in a romantic comedy directed by Nils Tavernier.[8][9] Filming began later that month in Kinshasa and was completed in approximately 30 days. The production faced logistical challenges, including curfews due to the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme weather conditions.[9]
The cast was gradually revealed over several months. In February 2022, actress Karidja Touré joined the project,[10] followed by comedian Djimo in April 2022.[11][12][13]
Release
The first trailer for Ima was released in March 2022.[14][12] The film premiered on 5 May 2022 at the Gaumont Champs-Élysées cinema in Paris[15] and had its nationwide release in France on 11 May 2022.[16]
Music
The original soundtrack was composed by Dadju, along with Meïr Salah and Yaacov Salah. Music plays a central role in the film, blending narrative and performance elements to reflect Dadju’s musical identity.[17][18]
Reception
Ima received mixed reviews from critics. Véronique Cauhapé of Le Monde described it as “a photo-novel for fans of the rapper,”[19] while Nicolas Didier of Télérama noted that the film “turns into an exercise in self-celebration,” criticizing its flat direction and missed musical opportunities.[20]
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