In 1980s Ghana, a pregnant woman named Atswei is determined to give birth in her hometown, as her family’s tradition demands. She and her husband, Boi, set off to catch the train. They miss it. What follows is a comic, touching journey through the countryside as they try to reach their destination before the baby arrives. Keteke, released in 2017, became one of the most charming Ghanaian films of its decade.
The title, cast and setting
Keteke is a word associated with the train, and the film’s story revolves around the railway. Peter Sedufia, a young Ghanaian filmmaker, wrote and directed the film. Adjetey Anang plays Boi and Lydia Forson plays Atswei. Both are well-known Ghanaian actors.
The film recreates 1980s Ghana with costumes, props and settings, and its humour draws on the era. The story recalls a time when trains were an important way to travel in southern Ghana.
Comedy, reception and awards
Much of the humour comes from the bickering couple and the strangers they meet. Critics praised its storytelling, performances and attention to detail. The film received awards and nominations at African film events. Keteke is part of a new wave of Ghanaian films with higher production values and original stories. Sedufia went on to make other films, including Aloe Vera.
The film uses English and Ghanaian languages, adding authenticity. The film has been shown at festivals and on streaming platforms.
The road trip and period detail
Much of the film follows the couple on foot and by improvised transport through rural Ghana after they miss the train. Along the way, they meet villagers, travellers and officials, each encounter adding comedy and tension. The road trip format allows the film to show the countryside and village life of the period. Costumes, cars, radios and signs from the 1980s help create the film’s world, and many older viewers enjoyed spotting familiar objects from their youth.
The leads and a Ghanaian story
Adjetey Anang, known for the television series Things We Do for Love and many films, brought warmth and humour to the role of Boi. Lydia Forson, an award-winning actress and writer, gave Atswei a strong, stubborn personality that drives the story. Unlike many Ghanaian films that copy Nollywood styles, Keteke tells a distinctly Ghanaian story with local humour.
Atswei and Boi missed their train. Keteke made sure audiences remembered their journey anyway.
