TERI DJOUGOU

Each week at the Teri Djougou maquis, the community comes together to share meals and laughter under the umbrellas. Yet, beneath the apparent conviviality, provocations and teasing emerge. Among elephants, hyenas, and crocodiles, tempers flare, and tensions explode, exposing a hidden cruelty masked by smiles.
In this electrifying atmosphere, where unsaid truths inevitably resurface, the weekly gatherings reveal a complex tapestry of conflict and concealed animosities beneath the surface of shared laughter.

"TERI DJOUGOU is an exhilarating, vividly rendered short that masterfully transforms a weekly community gathering into a simmering cauldron of tension, humour, and hidden emotion. Set in a maquis beneath colourful umbrellas, what begins as a scene of joy and togetherness slowly unravels into something far more complex - an allegorical exploration of rivalry, pride, and the masks we wear in public.
Visually, the film is nothing short of spectacular. The animal characters - each carefully designed with expressive faces and meticulous detail - bring a surreal energy to the piece. The contrast of bright colours, nuanced facial movements, and choreographed glances create a cinematic rhythm that mirrors the pulse of unspoken conflict. Every frame bursts with personality and layered symbolism.
The film’s use of music and sound design is equally impressive, with the score driving the tempo of the interactions and deepening the emotional landscape. The beat rises and falls in sync with the shifting dynamics of the group, creating a seamless fusion between visual storytelling and sonic atmosphere.
TERI DJOUGOU is a richly textured tale that exposes the thin line between harmony and hostility. Both playful and provocative, it is a powerful reminder that behind even the most convivial smiles may lie stories of simmering resentment. A feast for the senses and the mind, this film leaves a lasting impression." - Big Fridge International Film Festival