by Eleanor Mannikka
synopsis
Following a storyline that emphasizes oppression of the pygmy clans on all sides, director Raymond Adam focuses on Ekoma (the actor's real name) and his battle for survival. After Ekoma's father dies from the bite of a poisonous snake, the young man heads out to marry his love Zaba. She, in turn, is owned by a cruel village boss (pygmies are often "owned" by African and white overlords alike, who use them for their knowledge of the jungle and hunting). Ekoma marries Zaba and gets his chance to improve their livelihood when he saves the life of a French forester. Set up with cash and material goods, Ekoma suddenly becomes the target of jealous villagers and danger looms large on his horizon.
