Northwest Film Forum

In Moussa Toure’s powerful, epic fiction film, a group of 30 men sail to Europe in a pirogue, facing the sea—and the possibility of never reaching their destination—in exchange for the myth of a better life in Europe.

Baye Laye is the captain of a fishing pirogue. Like many of his Senegalese compatriots, he sometimes dreams of new horizons where he can earn a better living for his family. When he is offered to lead one of the many pirogues that head towards Europe via the Canary Island, he reluctantly accepts the job, knowing full well the dangers that lie ahead. Leading a group of 30 men who don't all speak the same language (and some of whom have never seen the sea) Baye Laye will confront many perils in order to reach the distant coasts of Europe.

"what makes Moussa Touré's The Pirogue such a great movie? The details." —The Stranger

"compact, affecting drama" —Seattle Weekly 

“A remarkably clear-eyed, quietly ambitious film” –A.O. Scott, New York Times” 

• Midsummer is for members at Northwest Film Forum: on Friday, August 16, members can bring a guest to any screening and get member pricing for both tickets! Read more about the benefits of Film Forum membership.