Watch Crossing Borders

Crossing Borders is a documentary film that follows four American university students as they embark on a musical journey across North Africa. The film highlights the transformative power of music and its ability to transcend borders and bring people together. The film opens with a brief history of the region and introduces the four students - Seth, Ladan, Mohammed, and Aaron - who come from different backgrounds and have diverse musical interests. They are accompanied by two world-renowned musicians, Bassam Saba and Kendirck Scott, who mentor and guide them throughout the trip.

The group starts their journey in Morocco and travels to Tunisia, Egypt, and Jordan, performing and collaborating with local musicians along the way. The film showcases the vibrant music scene in each country and highlights the unique sounds and rhythms of each culture.

In Morocco, the group explores Gnawa music, a genre that has its roots in West Africa and is known for its trance-inducing rhythms and spiritual themes. They perform with a group of Gnawa musicians in Marrakech and learn about the history and significance of the music in Moroccan culture.

In Tunisia, the group focuses on classical Arabic music and performs with local musicians in Tunis. They also visit the Bardo Museum, where they learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

In Egypt, the group delves into the world of Sufi music, a mystical genre that is deeply rooted in Islamic culture. They perform with a Sufi ensemble in Cairo and discuss the spiritual significance of the music with the group's leader.

In Jordan, the group performs with the Al Balad Music School, which provides music education to underprivileged children in Amman. The school's director shares her vision for using music as a tool for social change and the group reflects on the impact that music has had on their own lives.

Throughout the film, the group members share their personal stories and talk about how music has played a transformative role in their lives. They discuss the challenges of navigating cultural differences and learning new musical styles, as well as the joys of connecting with people from around the world through music.

The film provides a nuanced and complex portrayal of North Africa and challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about the region. It highlights the diversity and richness of the music and culture, while also acknowledging the political and social challenges that the countries face.

Overall, Crossing Borders is an inspiring and uplifting film that celebrates the power of music to build bridges and foster understanding between different cultures. It offers a compelling and insightful look at North Africa and provides a window into the transformative nature of travel and cultural exchange.