Home / Arts and Entertainment / Boy's Voice is Key to Gold in New Film
Boy's Voice is Key to Gold in New Film
10 Jan
Summary
- Short film highlights West African myths about albinism and gold.
- Child actor Boubacar Dembélé faced casting challenges due to superstitions.
- The film earned spots on the Oscars and César Awards shortlists.
French director Simon Panay's short film, "The Boy with White Skin," explores the complex relationship between albinism and artisanal gold mining in West Africa. The narrative is inspired by the belief that children with albinism possess voices that can attract gold, offering hope to impoverished miners risking their lives in dangerous underground galleries.
The film's casting in Dakar, Senegal, presented significant challenges. Amidst a presidential campaign, a dangerous myth emerged that sacrificing albino individuals could bring electoral success. This led to increased protectiveness of children with albinism, making the casting process difficult for the crew. Ultimately, Boubacar Dembélé was chosen for the lead role.
"The Boy with White Skin" has garnered critical acclaim, securing a spot on the 2026 Oscars shortlist and winning Best Film at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. Panay's work highlights the evolving perceptions of albinism across Africa, contrasting dangerous superstitions with growing community acceptance.
