The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019) Movie Review: A Tale of Innovation and Resilience
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor and released in 2019, is an inspiring true story of determination, innovation, and the power of education. Based on the memoir by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, this film captures the heart and spirit of a young boy’s extraordinary efforts to save his village from famine. This review explores the film’s compelling narrative, standout performances, and its impact, as well as its availability on various streaming platforms in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film is set in the early 2000s in Malawi and follows the journey of William Kamkwamba (Maxwell Simba), a young boy with a passion for learning and a keen interest in science. When a severe drought devastates his village, leading to crop failure and widespread hunger, William takes it upon himself to find a solution. Inspired by a science book he finds in his school’s library, William devises a plan to build a windmill to generate electricity and pump water for irrigation.
Despite numerous obstacles, including a lack of resources, financial constraints, and skepticism from his family and community, William’s perseverance and ingenuity ultimately lead to a life-saving innovation.
Character Analysis
- William Kamkwamba: Maxwell Simba delivers a heartfelt and convincing performance as William. His portrayal captures the curiosity, intelligence, and determination of a young boy driven by a desire to make a difference. Simba’s performance is both inspiring and emotionally resonant, effectively conveying the challenges and triumphs William faces.
- Trywell Kamkwamba: Chiwetel Ejiofor, who also directed the film, plays William’s father, Trywell. Ejiofor’s portrayal is nuanced and powerful, depicting a man struggling to provide for his family while grappling with his son’s unconventional ambitions. The dynamic between Trywell and William adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of tradition, hope, and resilience.
- Agnes Kamkwamba: Aïssa Maïga plays William’s supportive mother, Agnes. Her performance adds warmth and emotional grounding to the story, showcasing a mother’s love and unwavering belief in her child’s potential.
Direction and Cinematography
Chiwetel Ejiofor’s directorial debut is marked by a strong sense of authenticity and empathy. He captures the beauty and harshness of the Malawian landscape, creating a vivid backdrop for the story. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the struggles and triumphs of the Kamkwamba family.
The cinematography by Dick Pope is stunning, with its use of natural light and wide shots that emphasize the vastness of the African terrain. The visual storytelling effectively complements the narrative, highlighting the contrast between the arid, drought-stricken fields and the hopeful sight of the windmill in action.
Themes and Messages
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind explores several important themes, including the power of education, innovation, and resilience. The film underscores the importance of access to education and how knowledge can empower individuals to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.
The story also highlights the significance of community and family support in achieving one’s goals. William’s journey is not just a testament to his ingenuity but also to the collective effort and belief of those around him. The film conveys a powerful message about the impact one person can have on their community through determination and creativity.
Availability on Streaming Services
For those inspired by this remarkable story, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is available on several streaming platforms:
- Netflix: The film is available for streaming on Netflix, allowing subscribers to easily access and enjoy this uplifting tale.
Conclusion
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a moving and inspirational film that celebrates the human spirit’s ability to innovate and persevere in the face of adversity. Its compelling narrative, strong performances, and beautiful cinematography make it a standout entry in the genre of biographical dramas.
Whether streaming on Netflix, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind offers a heartfelt and impactful viewing experience. The film’s exploration of themes such as education, resilience, and the power of innovation resonates deeply, making it a must-watch for audiences seeking a story of hope and determination.
Experience the extraordinary journey of William Kamkwamba in The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind and be inspired by the true story of a boy who transformed his dreams into reality and changed his community for the better.
