Contributor: Josephine Koima
Director: Xiaoxiao Tang
Producer: Xiaoxiao Tang
Duration: 5min 9secs
Country of Origin: China/USA
This is a stop motion animation that tells the story of 4 band members discussing their lives before forming the rock band. The films uses instances of flashbacks, and the story is in form of an interview. It would seem they are talking to us, the audience. Each of them had an innate passion for music, and it shows at their previous jobs. For example, one band member was notorious for banging on plates and cups at the restaurant he was working, and, he becomes the drummer.
There’s humor mixed with passion both through their dialogue and actions, elements that effectively communicate their love for their rock band. The director/animator, Xiao Xiao Tang uses this film to live out her fantasy. She cannot sing, or play any instrument, though her characters are amazing.
Their advice: Our lives are a reflection of our attitudes, and we should settle to do what we love.
This blog offers a behind-the-scenes look at ROFFEKE. ROFFEKE is pronounced "rafiki" which is a Swahili word meaning "friend". 'Friendship, Fun, Freedom' is the motto of the ROck 'n' ROll Film FEstival, KEnya. The mission of ROFFEKE is to promote rock music in Kenya by dispelling rock 'n' roll myths and misconceptions via the medium of film. The Purpose of ROFFEKE is "Lighten the Burden".