The timeless significance of ancient custom to the Bambara peoples of Mali is explored in this haunting political fable from Souleymane Cissé. Having been threatened with death by his shaman father, Issiaka Kane goes into exile, where he learns the power and value of the magical gifts he will need to succeed in his Oedipal struggle. Although much of the symbolism is as obscure to non-Malian viewers as the story's historical background, there's no denying the simple poetry of the landscape or Cissé's technical mastery, as he explores in minute detail the secret Komo rituals that will ensure prosperity through self-sacrifice.