Zouzou is a French film from 1934 directed by Marc Allégret, starring Josephine Baker as the titular character. The story follows Zouzou, a mixed-race woman who worked in a circus as a child alongside a boy named Jean. They were close friends, but their lives went in different directions when Jean went to study music and Zouzou became a performer in a Paris night club.
Years later, Zouzou discovers that Jean has been arrested for the murder of a man who had been blackmailing him. She believes in his innocence and sets out to clear his name, despite facing discrimination due to her race and lack of social status. Zouzou enlists the help of her friends, including a nightclub singer named Claire and Jean's godfather, a wealthy artist named Charles. However, as they delve deeper into the case, they uncover more secrets and twists than they ever expected.
The film is notable for featuring Josephine Baker, an African American dancer and singer who found great success in France during the 1920s and 1930s. Zouzou showcases her talents in several musical numbers, including the beloved song "Haiti." The movie also explores themes of prejudice and racism, as well as the complexities of friendship and loyalty.