Hawa” (2022) is a French drama directed by Maïmouna Doucouré that tells the story of a young girl named Hawa, portrayed by Sania Halifa. Living in Paris with her terminally ill grandmother, Maminata (Oumou Sangaré), Hawa faces the impending reality of being left alone. Determined to avoid foster care, she becomes fixated on the idea of being adopted by former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama, who is visiting Paris. Embarking on this ambitious quest, Hawa encounters various individuals, including the singer Yseult, who assist her in navigating her unique journey. The film explores themes of resilience, identity, and the desire to transcend one’s circumstances. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2022, “Hawa” has been praised for its heartfelt narrative and strong performances, particularly Halifa’s portrayal of the determined protagonist.
