Khartoum Documentary Captures Human Spirit Amidst Sudan’s Civil War

A powerful new documentary, “Khartoum,” brings the human cost of Sudan’s civil war to the global stage. The film world premiered at Sundance and was featured at the 69th BFI London Film Festival. It tells the collective story of five ordinary Sudanese citizens whose lives were upended by conflict.

The project began as a cinematic poem about the city before the war. According to the filmmakers, the conflict displaced everyone involved, forcing a creative evolution. The resulting blend of oral storytelling and reenactments offers a unique, harrowing perspective.

Five Voices Unite to Share Stories of Displacement and Hope

The film features a civil servant, a tea lady, a resistance volunteer, and two street children. These individuals, who would never normally meet, share their memories and dreams. Their personal worries, like a fear of never returning home, create a deeply emotional narrative.

The directors are a collective of Sudanese and British filmmakers. They were all displaced by the fighting, just like their participants. This shared experience forged a powerful collaborative family from diverse backgrounds.

Creative Filmmaking Born from Conflict and Chaos

The war broke out during the initial filming stages. The team had to use production funds to evacuate participants and directors to safety in Kenya. They were left with limited pre-war footage and had to rely on the stories held by their participants.

They turned to innovative methods like green screens, reenactments, and children’s drawings. This allowed them to continue production despite being far from home. The film became a cathartic process for both its creators and its audience.

The “Khartoum” documentary provides an unprecedented look into the Sudanese civil war’s human impact. This film stands as a testament to resilience and the power of collective storytelling. Its unique perspective on the conflict in Sudan offers a vital narrative of hope and identity.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the “Khartoum” documentary about?

It chronicles the lives of five ordinary citizens in Sudan during the civil war. The film explores their displacement, memories, and dreams. It is a collective story of survival and identity.

Who are the main people featured in the film?

The documentary follows a civil servant, a tea stall owner, a resistance volunteer, and two young boys who collect plastic bottles. These individuals represent different facets of Sudanese society. Their personal stories create a powerful, unified narrative.

How did the war affect the film’s production?

The conflict forced the entire cast and crew to flee Sudan. They relocated to Nairobi, Kenya, to continue working. Production funds were repurposed for evacuation and safety.

What filmmaking techniques did the directors use?

They blended oral storytelling with staged reenactments and drawings. Green screens were used after the team was displaced. This creative approach was born from necessity.

Why is this film significant for Sudanese representation?

Filmmaker Phil Cox noted many Sudanese have never seen themselves represented on screen. The documentary provides a platform for their authentic voices. It serves as a catalyst for understanding and healing.