Kirikou and the Sorceress as a folktale

The story of Kirikou and the Sorceress is based on a West African folktale, which the director Michel Ocelot had read. He developed the story using the traditional elements of a folktale or a fairytale, in which a hero has an adventure full of magic, good wins over evil and there is a moral to be learned.

African folktales often originate from a time long ago before they were written down. They were told and retold by travelling 'griots', who were a combination of storyteller, poet and musician. Each time the tale was told it might change a little, but it usually included:

• A hero or heroine who must have adventures and battle against an evil character. These may at some point be under a spell which changes their character!
• Other characters such a wise man or woman who guides the hero on his quest. Also, animals with special powers.
• A journey which involves different environments, from mountains to rivers to underground passages. Listeners of these folktales who rarely travelled beyond their own area could more easily believe that danger and mystery may lurk on the other side of the mountains.
• Magic spells, magical characters and magical places, whether good or evil. Sometimes there is one obstacle in the path of a hero which, only he can get past.
• A moral to the story which gives the listener a lesson about life. These are often about being truthful or kind or honest or trustworthy. In Kirikou's case, it is also about having the courage to stand by what you believe is just and right.