The documentary film “Khartoum,” a poignant exploration of life in the Sudanese capital amidst conflict and peace, premiered at the Doha Film Festival 2025. Directed by a collaborative team including Ibrahim Snoubi Ahmed, Timia Mohamed, Rawya Alhaj, Philip Cox, and Anas Saeed, the film resonated deeply with audiences, particularly the Sudanese diaspora. The screening highlighted the power of Sudanese cinema to document and respond to ongoing crises.
The film, which features both observational footage of Khartoum and the filmmakers’ own experiences as refugees in Kenya, received a notably positive reception. Filmmakers reported a strong sense of unity and solidarity among viewers, reflecting the film’s central themes of resilience and shared experience. The Doha Film Festival ran from [Insert Dates if known] at [Insert Location if known].
The Story Behind “Khartoum” and the Future of Sudanese Cinema
“Khartoum” initially began as a project to identify and nurture emerging filmmaking talent within Sudan. However, the outbreak of intense conflict dramatically altered the scope and purpose of the production. According to co-director Philip Cox, the film evolved into a multifaceted narrative encompassing the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds and a compelling plea for international attention to the situation in Sudan.
Documenting a Nation in Crisis
The filmmakers utilized a combination of techniques to convey their story, including green screen effects, animation, and archival footage, particularly when depicting their own displacement. This innovative approach allowed them to integrate their personal experiences into the broader narrative of the Sudanese conflict. The film’s creators emphasized the importance of artistic expression in filling the gap left by limited media coverage of the war.
Rawya Alhaj, a co-director of the film, expressed her pride in the audience’s reaction, noting the powerful sense of connection it fostered. She believes the current events will fundamentally reshape Sudanese film, placing a significant responsibility on filmmakers to bear witness and document the realities of the conflict. The ongoing instability in Sudan has created a challenging environment for artistic production.
A Voice for the Diaspora
Ibrahim Snoubi Ahmed highlighted the therapeutic effect the film has had on members of the Sudanese diaspora. He explained that the experience of exile can be isolating, but seeing their stories represented on screen provides a sense of validation and community. Ahmed stated the film helps to combat feelings of marginalization by demonstrating that someone is acknowledging and amplifying their experiences.
The conflict in Sudan, which escalated in April 2023, has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis and widespread displacement. According to the United Nations, millions of Sudanese citizens have been forced to flee their homes, both within Sudan and to neighboring countries. This internal and external migration has created a large and dispersed Sudanese diaspora seeking refuge and support.
Additionally, the film’s screening sparked conversations about the role of art in advocacy and the importance of international solidarity with Sudan. The filmmakers hope “Khartoum” will serve as a catalyst for increased awareness and action to address the ongoing crisis. The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, functioning as a vital record of a nation’s struggle.
Looking Ahead: Distribution and Impact
Following its premiere at the Doha Film Festival, the filmmakers are currently exploring options for wider distribution of “Khartoum.” They aim to bring the film to international audiences and continue to raise awareness about the situation in Sudan. A key challenge will be navigating the logistical complexities of distribution given the ongoing conflict and the filmmakers’ own displacement.
The future of the film, and indeed of documentary filmmaking in Sudan, remains uncertain. The filmmakers are committed to continuing their work, but their ability to do so will depend on securing funding and ensuring their own safety. Observers will be watching for announcements regarding distribution deals and further screenings in the coming months.
The next steps involve securing funding for post-production and distribution, with a target date for wider release potentially in late 2025 or early 2026. The long-term impact of “Khartoum” on the Sudanese film industry and international perceptions of the conflict remains to be seen.
