Destiny (1997): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1997, Destiny is a drama and romance film directed by Mohamed Camara, running about 87 minutes.

What it’s about. Though gay-themed stories about "coming out" and accepting one's sexuality are not uncommon in Western countries, such tales are still rare in many conservative African nations. Considered a ground-breaking film in its native Guinea, and filmed amidst a storm of controversy, Mohamed Camara's Dakan is the first of its nations films to directly address issues surrounding homosexuality. The story centers on the romance between two 20-year-old men, Manga and Sory who are first seen making out in a car. The trouble begins when Manga tells his widowed mother about his love for Sory, who is busy contending with his outraged father. The parents insist that the two never see each other again. Manga's mother then uses witchcraft to cleanse her son and change him into a heterosexual. Time passes and eventually Manga begins to date a girl. But it soon becomes apparent that try as he might, Manga's heart belongs to Sory.

Who’s in it. Destiny stars Mamady Mory Camara, Aboubacar Touré, Koumba Diakite and Cécile Bois, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.8/10, Destiny has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Criterion Channel. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Destiny page.

If you liked it. Fans of Destiny tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.