On Becoming a Guinea Fowl (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
On Becoming a Guinea Fowl (2024) is a powerful and deeply personal film by director Rungano Nyoni. Set in Zambia, the story follows Shula, a woman who stumbles upon the body of her uncle on an empty road in the middle of the night. As the funeral preparations unfold, long-buried family secrets come to light, forcing Shula and her cousins to confront their past.
This haunting film blends psychological drama with surrealism, creating an emotionally intense viewing experience. Produced by A24, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl has already captivated audiences at international film festivals, earning praise for its thought-provoking themes and striking cinematography.
But is it worth watching? And where can you stream it? Let’s dive into this review and explore the film’s availability.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
Shula (Susan Chardy) is driving home late at night, dressed in a Missy Elliott costume after a party, when she comes across a shocking sight—her uncle Fred’s lifeless body in the middle of the road. As she calls her family to deliver the news, the funeral proceedings begin, bringing together relatives who haven’t seen each other in years.
But grief is not the only thing hanging over the family. As conversations unfold and past wounds resurface, Shula and her cousins uncover dark truths about their family’s history—particularly surrounding their late uncle. What follows is a gripping exploration of trauma, silence, and the social dynamics that allow abuse to be ignored or excused.
With stunning cinematography and a blend of surreal dream sequences, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl challenges audiences to reflect on generational pain and cultural expectations.
Review: A Haunting and Surreal Examination of Trauma
A24’s Signature Style with a Personal Touch
If you’re familiar with A24’s catalog, you’ll recognize many of the elements that define On Becoming a Guinea Fowl. The film is filled with striking visual metaphors, long contemplative shots, and a dreamlike atmosphere reminiscent of Apichatpong Weerasethakul (Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives) and Donald Glover’s experimental TV work (Atlanta).
However, Rungano Nyoni brings her own unique style to the table. Known for her acclaimed debut I Am Not a Witch (2017), Nyoni is a master at blending dark realism with moments of surreal beauty. In On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, she employs vibrant neon colors and eerie dream sequences to immerse the audience in Shula’s psychological turmoil.
The film’s use of the guinea fowl as a symbol is particularly striking. In Zambian folklore, guinea fowls are known to alert other animals to the presence of predators. In the context of the film, the bird represents both a warning and a painful reminder of ignored truths.
A Story That Balances Darkness and Absurdity
Despite its heavy themes, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl is not without humor. There are moments of absurdity and dark comedy that provide brief relief from the film’s emotional weight. However, these comedic moments serve a deeper purpose—they highlight the way people use humor as a coping mechanism in the face of trauma.
One of the most powerful aspects of the film is its commentary on societal expectations. The women in Shula’s family carry immense emotional burdens, yet they are expected to remain silent and compliant. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the suffocating weight of tradition, exploring how cultural norms can enable cycles of abuse.
Brilliant Performances Elevate the Story
Susan Chardy delivers a mesmerizing performance as Shula. Her portrayal is restrained yet deeply expressive, capturing the quiet resilience of a woman navigating grief and repressed memories. Elizabeth Chisela and Esther Singini also shine as Shula’s cousins, adding layers of complexity to the film’s portrayal of familial bonds.
What makes On Becoming a Guinea Fowl truly compelling is how it focuses on character development. Shula’s journey is not just about uncovering secrets—it’s about reclaiming her voice in a family that has long ignored the truth.
A Visual and Emotional Masterpiece
Cinematographer David Gallego (Embrace of the Serpent, Birds of Passage) brings Nyoni’s vision to life with stunning imagery. Water plays a significant role in the film, often appearing in dream sequences where it floods hallways or ripples across the screen, symbolizing submerged emotions.
The film’s sound design is equally impressive, using silence and subtle background noises to build tension. The score, a mix of eerie ambient sounds and traditional Zambian music, adds to the film’s hypnotic quality.
Where to Watch On Becoming a Guinea Fowl Online
As of March 2025, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl has not yet been released for streaming. However, based on A24’s release patterns, here’s where you can expect it to become available in the coming months:
Streaming Predictions:
- Showtime / Paramount+ – A24 films often land here first after their theatrical run.
- Max (formerly HBO Max) – Another likely destination, as some A24 titles have premiered here.
- Hulu with Showtime add-on – Possible streaming option.
- Netflix (International Release) – A24 occasionally licenses films to Netflix in select regions.
Rental & Purchase Options (Expected Mid-to-Late 2025):
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies & YouTube
- Vudu
- Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Purchase option)
📌 Stay updated on streaming availability: Check JustWatch
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Fans of Thought-Provoking Cinema
✅ Pros:
✔ Visually stunning and emotionally powerful
✔ A gripping, surreal exploration of trauma and grief
✔ Outstanding performances, particularly from Susan Chardy
✔ Thought-provoking social commentary
❌ Cons:
✘ Slow-burn pacing may not appeal to everyone
✘ Heavy subject matter can be emotionally draining
Who Should Watch On Becoming a Guinea Fowl?
- Fans of A24’s more experimental films (The Green Knight, Saint Maud, The Lighthouse)
- Viewers who appreciate art-house storytelling with surreal elements
- Those interested in films that explore family trauma and social issues
While On Becoming a Guinea Fowl is not an easy watch, it is a necessary one. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths, making it one of 2024’s most thought-provoking films.
Rungano Nyoni has crafted a deeply personal and visually arresting film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn to the film for its artistic merits or its social commentary, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl is an unforgettable cinematic experience.
📢 Have you seen On Becoming a Guinea Fowl? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
