Dir: Mohamed Subahi | Sudan, Doc 75′
A lively documentary despite its tragic subject matter charting the history of modern Sudan through the lives of three people in today’s Khartoum.
The country has experienced turbulent upheavals but on the streets of the capital there is an indomitable spirit at play. Here ordinary people are striving for democracy buoyed by their sunny enthusiasm and determination to bring about change. To keep us appraised of Sudan’s recent history the director makes ample use of inter-titles with key dates and historical facts.
Acting as his own DoP and editor Mohamed Subahi sets the scene at a pivotal moment in the Sudanese Revolution that began in December 2018. The three are campaigning in various local movements but their interweaving stories are full of positivity and hope, and the mood is enhanced with vibrant camerawork by Subahi and his co-DoP Algaddal Hassan who capture the febrile intensity and the passion of the Sudanese youth who aspire towards a fully democratic republic irrespective of creed and colour. Sadly, the only violence seem to come from the authorities. Despite ugly scenes that see the police opening fire, the people press on with their peaceful protest, terrified out of the lives. @MeredithTaylor
CAIRO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2024