Bel Review
Beldina Odenyo alchemised the pain of exile, loss and racism into music as Heir of the Cursed before her death in 2021, as this attentive tribute explores
TL;DR
- The documentary explores the life of singer-songwriter Beldina Odenyo, known as Heir of the Cursed.
- Odenyo's struggles with mental illness were linked to her experiences of exile, loss, and racism.
- She was on the verge of greater recognition before her death in November 2021.
- The film highlights her experiences of being removed from Kenya, the loss of her mother, and abuse encountered in Scotland.
- Odenyo's music is compared to PJ Harvey and Nina Simone for its emotional depth.
- She wrestled with the idea of commercializing her personal struggles, especially during the pandemic.
- The documentary examines the dual nature of art as both compulsive and healing.