Written and directed by Hind Meddeb, captures a jubilant moment of defiance among young Sudanese activists in Khartoum after the overthrow of a long dictatorship, and then chronicles the military crackdown that followed.
One of the fascinating things about Sudan, Remember Us is that despite the complex issues that it’s exploring, there’s a strong positivity to it. That’s because Hind Meddeb does a wonderful job of capturing the enthusiasm, dedication and also artistic nature of the subjects. There is so much surprising charm to be found in how they translate their fight in such a graceful, eloquent and poetic manner. Particularly in the way that they, and Meddeb, bring through music into the documentary, portraying their battle in a way that has a strong personality.
Meddeb also effectively portrays the people’s commitment to the issues and their country, even when they’re putting themselves in danger. There are so many conflicts going on at any given time and as Sudan, Remember Us accurately makes clear, the media focuses on a chosen few. Leaving it up to people like this fantastic group of activists to keep their fight going loud and showing exactly why documentaries like this are vital viewing.
There’s an interesting contrast between the fervour of their fight and the grounded nature of their personalities. They’re utterly dedicated, justly outraged and yet manage to present themselves in such an elegant manner. Making their arguments clear, emotional and absolutely from the heart. Meddeb makes a truly concerted effort to capture that thoughtfulness and composure. In doing so, it gives the documentary a compelling flow and touch of artistry.
Sudan, Remember Us is a striking portrait of an inspiring, vehement group of young people. Capturing the power of protest, as well as how it can be touching and creative. The documentary is filled with so much grace and eloquence under such a heavy threat, it’s incredibly passionate.
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