Watch Abouna

Abouna is a captivating and emotional drama film from Chad, directed by Mahamat Saleh Haroun. The movie revolves around the lives of two young Chadian boys, Tahir and Amine, who are on a heartfelt and emotional quest to find their missing father, who disappeared without a trace two months prior. Set in the dusty and sunbaked streets of N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, the movie kicks off with the two brothers and their mother, who live in a modest home in a poor neighborhood. They are having a casual conversation about their father's upcoming return, only to find out that he has mysteriously vanished. The boys decide to conduct a search for their father, hoping to find him before he disappears for good.

Throughout the movie, Tahir and Amine seek out clues, search through the woods, and follow leads that take them all over N'Djamena, in the hope of finding their father. As they embark on their mission, they come across a range of characters, from street performers to petty thieves and gangsters, providing a rare glimpse into the everyday life in Chad.

Despite their efforts, the brothers struggle to gain any conclusive information about their father's whereabouts, leading them to some dark and dangerous places. Along the way, they encounter hardships, face adversity and even betrayal, but never lose hope or their sense of humor.

The acting in the movie is raw and believable, especially given that the roles were played by non-professional actors, Ahidjo Mahamat Moussa and Hamza Moctar Aguid. The chemistry they share as brothers is heart-warming and convincing, as they play off each other and bring a palpable sense of innocence and wonder to their roles.

The score in the movie is minimal yet quite effective, capturing the essence of the story without distracting from the emotional core of the movie. It is composed by Wasis Diop, a Senegalese musician, and reflects the ambiance of N'Djamena.

The cinematography is striking, showcasing the dusty and barren landscapes of Chad, as well as the bustling cityscape of N'Djamena, with its colorful markets and diverse population. The director, Mahamat Saleh Haroun, uses a minimalist approach that yields maximum impact. The camera tracks across streets, follows the boys into alleyways, and frames the characters in the most honest and raw way possible.

One of the strengths of the movie is its depiction of the relationship between the brothers. Despite facing setbacks and experiencing the harsh realities of life in Chad, they never lose sight of their love for each other and their father. They depend on each other, support each other, and share moments of laughter and tenderness in the midst of their struggle.

The movie's ending is poignant, leaving the audience feeling both sad and hopeful. The director chooses to end the movie in a way that leaves so much unsaid, giving the viewer the impression that there are still many unanswered questions, but that the boys' journey has changed them forever.

Overall, Abouna is a moving and touching movie that captures the essence of Chad and the struggles of its people. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder that even in the bleakest of circumstances, there is always hope. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in African cinema or simply searching for a powerful and thought-provoking film.