Enongo

When Enongo Lumumba-Kasongo was a little girl, she became obsessed with the 1986 Nintendo game Metroid. She was thrilled to learn that the game’s protagonist, Samus Aran, was a woman. This revelation was a turning point, proving to her that women could inhabit spaces she had initially thought were reserved for men. This empowering moment inspired her stage name, Sammus. As a rapper, producer, and Ph.D. candidate, Enongo’s story and art serve as an inspiration for people from all walks of life.

Director and writer Kevin Schreck weaves together a unique documentary experience to tell Enongo’s story. Through a blend of animation and live-action, Schreck invites us into her life, from childhood to her current influence in rap and geek culture.

“Enongo’s journey is yet another human story about the power to persevere and make your dreams come true.”

The animation deserves special attention; the various art styles are implemented with such precision that they keep the film’s flow smooth and engaging. This film is a landmark achievement, as it is the first feature-length project to feature an animation team composed entirely of Black women. These segments, which make up approximately 10% of the film, serve as distinct chapters in Enongo’s life, enriched with poetic visual flair. Serving as a mentor and consultant for the project is legendary Disney animator Dan Haskett, who worked on Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Haskett even provided initial character sketches for the project, which is the perfect finishing touch.

The magic of a documentary like Enongo is that it allows us to step into another person’s life—to learn about their family, their inspirations, and their heartbreaks. Throughout the film, Enongo’s artistry is on full display, but so is her humanity. As we learn more about the real-life struggles she has overcome, her art resonates even more deeply.

Enongo is an enjoyable journey, even for those who may not be familiar with her music. The unique hybrid approach is engaging and well-executed. Everyone has moments in which they feel lost and alone; Enongo’s journey is a powerful, human story about the strength to persevere and the courage to make your dreams come true.