Beats of the Antonov

Description

In this directorial debut, Hajooj Kuka offers unique angles on a complex conflict and national identity crisis—by weaving personal testimonies from community workers, soldiers and civilians, he crafts an inspiring and intimate portrait of the incredible resilience of a community and the vital importance of making music not only as a bonding and healing force, but as an instrument to keep cultural heritage alive. Since its independence in 1956, Sudan has been in an almost constant state of civil war. On the conflict-ravaged border between South and North Sudan, refugees from the Blue Nile and the Nuba Mountain communities seek shelter from the bombs dropped indiscriminately from Russian-built Antonov cargo planes in Sudanese government air raids, while creatively strategizing their survival. While serving as raw documentation of the atrocities and the pain caused by displacement and loss in the longest civil war in the African continent, the film also captures the unrelenting joy found amid the uncertainty of these people’s lives. As the bombings remain a constant threat, the laughter and musical beats often heard after attacks symbolize a cultural manifestation and celebration of the miracle that is to be granted the chance to live another day. —Julia Barbosa

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