Bienvenue à Marly-Gomont

A film for our times, though based on true story decades ago. A black Congolese doctor relocates to French countryside with his family and face racial distancing by the locals. It's an uplifting story on how the father and the kids turn both the locals and their mother too with their talents and unconditionality. In current times when divisive tendencies are on the upswing, we need more such reinforcements.

The movie is a simple one, perhaps made with modest means. But it is highly effective at what it attempts.

The acting, especially of the female lead is very good. And the kids as well as the male lead are delightful. The villagers all play their role well.

The African Doctor nicely depicts the struggle in which a late 20th century African immigrant may find himself while trying to settle in provincial Europe. The cultural clashes are very funny to watch, but sometimes they seem a bit overdone. Nonetheless I think the struggle hits pretty close to reality. Without being a depressing movie, The African Doctor delivers quite a touching story.

A great family movie to depict a very difficult start for this family. Great writing to describe humble pride, lightness and forgiveness. The lead character is excellent. The build-up of his emotions is very well built. I just shouted of rage at the same as he did in complete symbiosis with his struggles! Haha

This film is based on the real story of Seyolo Zantoko, a doctor of Congolese origin who installed his doctor's office in the village of Marly-Gomont amnd stayed there with his famille from 1970 to 2009. A touching story telling the integration of this family in this village with humour (the white cows looking at Anne , the man explaining what is a leek): little by little the family begins to be accepted and appreciated by the people of Marly-Gomont. The performances of Marc Zinga (Seyolo Zantoko) and Aïssa Maïga (Anne Santoko) are excellent, so as the performances of the French actors and actresses.

Such a beautiful heartwarming French film. If you like 'Doc Martin' and French comedies, then you'll love this, which is like a combination of them both.

The fact it's based on a true story just makes it even more enjoyable. The performances were great, and while it took me a little to get into, once I did, it was like being wrapped up in a comfy blanket. It has a lighthearted vibe and managed to juggle humour with sensitive racial issues effectively.

At times it even reminded me of 'The Vicar of Dibley' - if the village had received an African doctor instead of female vicar. It has a really nice score throughout, and enough emotional scenes to ensure Kleenex never runs out of business. The final scenes in particular were a fitting climax and great way to finish what was an enjoyable story.

I'm a sucker for triumph over adversity stories, and The African Doctor is a fantastic little film with a big heart.