Atlantics

Atlantics 2019

Directed by

Mati Diop

Mati Diop

Made by

Netflix

Netflix

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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of Atlantics (2019). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.


In a vibrant suburb of Dakar, positioned along the picturesque Atlantic coastline, the anticipation of a new era looms as a futuristic tower is set for its grand unveiling. However, the construction workers, who tirelessly labored on this monumental project, find themselves in a dire predicament as they have not received their wages for months. Frustrated and desperate, they devise a plan one fateful night to escape their hardships by heading to Spain via the sea, in search of a hopeful future. Among these brave souls is Souleiman, the devoted lover of Ada. Yet, tragedy ensues as Ada is already bound to another through an arranged marriage to the wealthy Omar.

As the days inch closer to her wedding, Ada is engulfed in worry concerning Souleiman’s destiny, anxiously awaiting news of his well-being. On what should be the happiest day of her life, disaster strikes: Omar’s bed unexpectedly ignites in flames during what appears to be an arson attack. This shocking event prompts the allocation of a young detective, whose job it is to delve into the intricate mystery surrounding the incident.

In the aftermath, Ada finds herself embroiled in suspicion, subjected to relentless interrogations and a virginity test that compound her distress. Simultaneously, Fanta, a close friend, along with the young detective, begins to exhibit strange symptoms linked to an inexplicable illness. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes evident that something more sinister is occurring; the spirits of the men who perished at sea have returned, seeking revenge for their lost wages by possessing the inhabitants of Dakar each night. Their primary target? The affluent tycoon who denied them their hard-earned pay—a man whose actions forced them into the treacherous waters of the Atlantic. They threaten the destruction of the towering monument unless their grievances are addressed.

Ultimately, the now-possessed tycoon finds himself coerced into digging their graves as a means of granting peace to the vengeful spirits, but amid this chaos, Souleiman’s yearning is singular— to reunite with Ada. Unfortunately, he now inhabits the body of the young detective, inducing fear in Ada initially. However, as she confronts and interacts with the returning spirits, including Fanta who has also become a vessel for one of the souls, she gradually begins to empathize with their plight, leading to a poignant, final night together with the new Souleiman.

In an intense twist, while reviewing footage from the unsettling wedding, the detective unveils the startling truth—under the influence of Souleiman’s spirit, he inadvertently set the fire. With this revelation, he resolves the mystery and lays the spirit’s restless soul to rest.

This gripping narrative intertwines themes of love, loss, and the struggle for justice, showcasing the poignant experiences of its characters as they navigate the challenging waters of both the living and the spirit world in their pursuit of peace and closure.

Timeline

Track the key events of Atlantics (2019) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Construction of the Tower

In a suburb of Dakar, a futuristic-looking tower is nearing completion. This structure represents progress and hope for the community but comes at a cost to the workers, who remain unpaid for their hard labor.

Dakar

Desperate Escape

Faced with financial despair, the construction workers, including Souleiman, decide to leave the country by sea. Their goal is to find better opportunities in Spain, seeking a brighter future away from their struggles.

Dakar Coast

Ada's Heartache

While Souleiman embarks on his perilous journey, Ada, his lover, is left behind, troubled by uncertainty and longing. She is committed to another man, Omar, but her heart stays with Souleiman as she awaits news of his fate.

Wedding Day Tensions

On the day of Ada's wedding to Omar, strange and concerning events unfold. Omar's bed catches fire, suspected to be an act of arson, leading to chaos and raising suspicion about those around Ada.

Ada's Wedding Venue

Interrogation of Ada

After the fire incident, Ada is subjected to intense interrogation and a humiliating virginity test. The scrutiny adds to her distress, as she grapples with the loss of Souleiman and the pressure from society.

Police Station

Mysterious Illness

As the investigation unfolds, Ada's friend Fanta and the young detective both fall ill with a mysterious sickness. Their symptoms serve as a harbinger of the supernatural events about to unfold in Dakar.

Return of the Spirits

It becomes evident that the spirits of the construction workers who perished at sea have returned to the city. Each night, these spirits possess the bodies of the living, primarily targeting the tycoon responsible for their suffering.

Dakar

Demand for Justice

The spirits, fueled by anger and a sense of injustice, confront the tycoon, demanding the payment that was unjustly withheld from them. They threaten to burn down the tower if their rightful dues are not paid, creating an atmosphere of fear.

Graves for the Lost

Upon receiving their payment, the spirits compel the tycoon to dig their graves as a final gesture, allowing them to find peace. This eerie event highlights the unresolved grievances of the lost workers and the heavy toll of their sacrifices.

Possession and Connection

Souleiman's spirit possesses the body of the young detective, leading to a complicated reunion with Ada. Despite an initial fear, Ada comes to understand the spirits and the need for closure, spending a final moment with the new Souleiman.

Revelation of the Arson

As the detective reviews footage from the wedding, he uncovers a shocking truth: while possessed by Souleiman's spirit, he was the one who set the fire that disrupted Ada's wedding. This revelation brings the investigation to a surreal conclusion.

Police Station

Closure of the Case

With the understanding of his actions while possessed, the young detective closes the arson case. This decision not only resolves his inner turmoil but also allows the community to begin to heal from the events that transpired.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring Atlantics (2019) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Souleiman (Traore)

Souleiman is a passionate young man driven by his love for Ada and a desperate desire for a better life. His decision to leave for Spain showcases his hope and determination, but his ultimate fate adds a haunting aura to his character as he transforms into a spirit seeking connection. His love story is both tragic and ethereal, bridging the gap between life and the afterlife.

👨‍❤️‍👩 Love 🌊 Migration 👻 Spirit

Ada (Mame Bineta Sane)

Ada is portrayed as a strong and resilient woman caught in the turmoil of love and societal expectations. As she grapples with her feelings for Souleiman and her impending marriage to Omar, her character embodies the struggles of women in her society. She evolves from despair to courage as she confronts both the living and spirits from beyond.

👰‍♀️ Marriage 💔 Heartbreak 🌹 Resilience

Fanta (Aminata Kane)

Fanta serves as Ada's supportive friend, experiencing her own challenges amidst the unrest. Her character reflects the broader impact of grief and mystery within the pulse of Dakar. As she becomes possessed, her journey reveals a deeper connection to the supernatural struggle, symbolizing the bonds of friendship against adversity.

🤝 Friendship 👻 Possession 💕 Support

Omar (Babacar Sylla)

Omar is portrayed as a wealthy man betrothed to Ada, embodying privilege and societal pressure. His character acts as a foil to Souleiman, highlighting the conflicts between love and duty. The fire incident linked to him adds layers of suspicion and intrigue, suggesting the darker sides of wealth and entitlement.

💰 Wealth 🔥 Suspicion ❤️ Love

Detective (Ibrahima Mbaye)

The young detective becomes an unwitting medium for Souleiman's spirit, adding complexity to his character as he navigates the investigation. His journey intertwines personal struggles with professional duty, especially as he grapples with the supernatural consequences of his case. His character arc moves from authority to vulnerability as he confronts haunting realities.

🕵️‍♂️ Investigation 👻 Possession 📜 Mystery

Setting

Uncover the settings of Atlantics (2019), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.


Time period

The movie does not specify a particular time period but presents a contemporary setting that reflects current socio-economic issues in Senegal. It deals with themes of migration, economic hardship, and social injustice prevalent in modern times.

Location

Dakar

Dakar is a vibrant city on the Atlantic coast of Senegal, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. The suburb where the movie is set contrasts the luxurious new tower with the struggles of its working-class residents. The coastal city is also often a launching point for those seeking better opportunities abroad.

🏖️ Coast 🌆 Urban

Themes

Explore the core themes of Atlantics (2019). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


🌊

Migration

The theme of migration is central to the film, illustrating the desperation of young men like Souleiman who seek better lives far from home. The emotional toll of leaving loved ones behind is palpable through Ada's relationship with Souleiman. The narrative explores the risks and uncertainties associated with seeking a future across the sea.

💔

Love and Loss

Love is a driving force in the story, particularly through Ada's bond with Souleiman. The pain of their separation highlights the depths of her emotional struggle during her wedding to another man. Loss takes on a supernatural element as the spirits of the departed seek resolution, pushing the characters to confront their feelings and desires.

👻

Supernatural

The supernatural theme is vividly illustrated as the spirits of the lost workers return to seek justice. This element intertwines with the earthly struggles of the living, blending a haunting narrative with the social commentary of financial exploitation and the quest for closure. As the spirits possess the living, it reflects the unresolved grievances that echo in the community.

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