Rungano Nyoni “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl”, a dark comedy-drama exploring family, trauma, and tradition, is set for a U.S. theatrical release on March 7, 2025, courtesy of A24. This marks the studio’s first African film acquisition.
The Zambian-Welsh filmmaker’s second feature premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the category’s top prize. The film, starring Susan Chardy, Elizabeth Chisela, and Henry B.J. Phiri, is a co-production between Zambia, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Following its Cannes debut, “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” screened at major festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival, New York Film Festival, BFI London Film Festival, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, and the S16 Film Festival, where it was the opening film.
The story follows Shula (Susan Chardy), who, after returning from a party, stumbles upon the body of her uncle on the road. As funeral rites unfold, long-buried traumatic memories resurface for Shula and other young women in her family—memories that many have chosen to suppress. The film offers a sharp critique of Zambian traditions surrounding death and grief, particularly the ways women challenge these customs.
“On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” will open in select theaters in New York and Los Angeles.