Cocorico! Monsieur Poulet
| Company type | Film collective |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film production |
| Founded | 1970s |
| Founder | Damouré Zika, Lam Ibrahim Dia, Jean Rouch |
| Products | Films |
Cocorico! Monsieur Poulet (; translated as "Cock-a-doodle-do! Mister Chicken") is a 1977 road film from a Franco-Nigerien collaboration, crafted under the collective name "Dalarou," which represents the teamwork of Damouré Zika, Lam Ibrahim Dia, and Jean Rouch.
Production
Shot on 16 mm film in 1974 near Niamey, Niger, Cocorico! Monsieur Poulet relied heavily on improvisation throughout its creation. The Citroën 2CV featured prominently in the film was purchased through funding provided by Damouré Zika, who used profits earned from his previous project, Petit à petit (1970), demonstrating a deliberate reinvestment into production resources.
Synopsis
The story follows Lam, who owns a self-constructed Citroën 2CV called “Patience,” accompanied by his apprentice Tallou as they travel to rural areas to procure chickens intended for sale in Niamey. Joining their journey is Damouré, a resourceful opportunist. Throughout their day-long expedition, they confront various challenges, including an encounter with a "demon," and undertake several crossings of the Niger River.
Reception
According to Rembert Hüser, Cocorico! Monsieur Poulet effectively deconstructs the Western world's obsession with technology.