This Is Congo

This Is Congo is a thought-provoking and unflinching documentary that delves into the lives of three individuals – a mother, a fighter, and a miner – who are forced to navigate the treacherous landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), ravaged by the devastating M23 rebellion. The film provides an unfiltered look into the lives of these characters, offering a searing portrait of the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the Congolese people. The film centers around Azizi (the mother), who struggles to provide for her children in the face of extreme poverty and violence. As the conflict escalates, Azizi's world is turned upside down, and she is forced to make impossible choices to ensure her family's survival. Her story is interwoven with that of a young fighter, known only as "Djuma," who is recruited to fight on behalf of the M23 rebels. Djuma's perspective offers a glimpse into the world of child soldiers, exploited and conditioned to wage war without a second thought. Meanwhile, in a nearby village, a miner named Lenga toils away in the depths of the earth, extracting valuable minerals in the hopes of a better life. However, the profits from his labor largely benefit foreign interests, leaving him and his community with little to show for it. Lenga's story highlights the stark contrasts between the Congolese people's struggles for survival and the opulence of the wealthy elite who profit from the country's resources. Throughout the film, the director masterfully weaves together the complex narratives of these three individuals, creating a rich tapestry that illuminates the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that shape the lives of the Congolese people. Azizi, Djuma, and Lenga emerge as multidimensional characters, their stories filled with both despair and hope. One of the most striking aspects of This Is Congo is its portrayal of the human cost of conflict. The film sheds light on the countless victims of the M23 rebellion, including women and children who bear the brunt of the violence. Azizi's struggles to feed and protect her children, for instance, are underscored by the dire circumstances in which they live. The documentary also highlights the issue of child soldiers, as Djuma shares his experiences of being recruited and trained to fight. These scenes are both poignant and unflinching, providing a stark reminder of the consequences of war. In contrast, the film also offers moments of resilience and hope. Azizi's determination to provide for her family in the face of overwhelming odds, for example, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Congolese people. Similarly, Lenga's commitment to his community and his work as a miner underscores the importance of human connection and solidarity in the face of adversity. This Is Congo is also notable for its cinematography, which captures the stark beauty of the Congolese landscape alongside the raw, unvarnished brutality of the conflict. The film's use of handheld cameras and natural lighting creates an intimate, immersive experience, drawing the viewer into the lives of the characters. The sound design is similarly effective, incorporating the cacophony of gunfire, shouting, and the sounds of the earth itself to create a visceral, immersive experience. Ultimately, This Is Congo is a powerful statement about the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit. By sharing the stories of Azizi, Djuma, and Lenga, the film sheds light on the intricate complexities of life in the DRC and challenges the viewer to consider the implications of global events on the lives of real people. As a documentary, it is both a sobering indictment of the violence that plagues the DRC and a testament to the enduring hope and resilience of its people.