Zan Boko (1988): cast, story & where to watch
1988 · Film · ★ 6.7

Released in 1988, Zan Boko is a drama film directed by Gaston Kaboré, running about 92 minutes.
What it’s about. In the Mossi culture, one of the rites attending the birth of a child and its induction as a new member of the community involves the burial of the placenta. The space in which the placenta is buried is called 'Zan Boko' - a phrase which connotes the religious, cultural and affective relations that bind the child to the land and that embraces the notions of 'rootedness' and 'belonging'. Kaboré tells the story of Tinga, who resists the encroaching urbanization of his native territory. The specific rhythms and vision of the rural community, including its values, social relationship, and individual & collective destinies, are altered when a city is planted on the edge of an ancient native village.
Who’s in it. Zan Boko stars Joseph Nikiema as Tinga, Gady Pafadnam as Tiraogo, Simone Tapsoba as Tiraogo's wife and Colette Kaboré as Nopoko, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.7/10, Zan Boko has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Zan Boko page.
If you liked it. Fans of Zan Boko tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Zan Boko (1988)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Zan Boko change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Zan Boko worth watching?
- Zan Boko holds an audience score of 6.7 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Zan Boko?
- Zan Boko stars Joseph Nikiema, Gady Pafadnam, Simone Tapsoba, Colette Kaboré and Hippolyte Wangrawa.
- When was Zan Boko released?
- Zan Boko was released in 1988, with a runtime of about 92 minutes.