Ghetto Millionaires

Armed with designer jackets, shiny shoes and expensive sunglasses, the flashy Sapeurs are an uncommon sight on the Brussels streets. These men are worshipped Congolese style icons with names such as Tigana Showpiece and Papa Rolls. However, as the film progresses it becomes clear that the extraordinary Sape lifestyle can be quite stressful for the Sapeurs living in Europe. Their everyday struggles turn out to be in contrast with the high expectations of relatives and society back in Congo.

Scenes

Saupeurs in Brussels
Congolese gentlemen show their clothes and explain the meaning of the words Sapeur and ‘Sape’. The Saupeurs in Brussels are obsessed with clothing and try to impress each other with their personal style.
Papa Rolls in Brussels
In Brussels, Papa Rolls is shooting an episode of his tv show ‘Zua Nga Bien’. He’s interviewing Congolese Sapeur about their style and clothing. Furthermore, Papa Rolls talks about his show and the way it affects people in the Congo.
Papa Rolls in Kinshasa
Here, Papa Rolls talks to young men in Kinshasa, Congo. He asks them how they feel seeing the Sapeurs in Europe, shown his tv show ‘Zua Nga Bien’.
Sapeur problems in Europe
Sapeur Tigana talks about the hardships of the Congolese Sapeurs in Europe. Most of them don’t have enough money to fulfill their basic needs and take care of their family in the Congo.
Werrason and power of music
According to media expert Zacharie, music is an important source of power in the Congo. People pay artists to be mentioned in their songs. This clip also contains images of a performance by Congolese artist Werrason in Brussels.
European immigrant supports his Congolese family
Tigana, who’s living in Belgium, visits his family back in the Congo. He has given money to his family in order to build a house for his mother, but so far, nothing is built yet. During the visit, his family keeps pushing him to give more money.