Watch In This World
- R
- 2002
- 1 hr 28 min
-
7.3 (4,421)
In This World is a powerful drama film directed by Michael Winterbottom that tells the story of two Afghan boys, Jamal and Enayatullah, as they try to escape from war-torn Afghanistan and seek refuge in Europe. The film is shot in a documentary style and follows the boys as they make their way through dangerous terrain, face life-threatening situations, and encounter various people along the way.
Jamal Udin Torabi plays Jamal, the younger of the two boys who is sent by his family to seek a better life outside the warzone. Enayatullah, played by Enayatullah, is the older and more responsible of the two, and he takes it upon himself to guide Jamal to safety. Imran Paracha plays the role of a smuggler who helps them cross borders and leads them through dangerous territories.
The film opens with a poignant scene of Jamal and Enayatullah saying goodbye to their families as they begin their journey. We then follow them as they traverse Afghanistan and Pakistan, trying to avoid danger and make connections with people who might be able to help them. During their journey, they meet other refugees and smugglers who are also trying to flee the warzone.
As they move closer to Europe, the film takes a more intense turn, and the boys are confronted with more significant challenges. At one point, their group is ambushed by bandits, and Jamal is separated from Enayatullah. The young boy is left to fend for himself in a new and unfamiliar country, desperately trying to find his way back to his friend.
Throughout the film, Winterbottom captures the harsh reality of the refugee experience. The boys face countless obstacles, such as long journeys on foot, the threat of arrest or death, and constant emotional strain. In one particularly heartbreaking scene, Jamal calls his mother and tells her that he misses her and wants to come home.
Despite the harsh realities, the film is not entirely bleak. There are moments of kindness and compassion shown by strangers, and the bond between Jamal and Enayatullah is heartwarming. The film also explores issues of identity and belonging, highlighting the struggle of refugees who are forced to leave their homes and try to integrate into new cultures.
The film's documentary-style approach makes the story feel incredibly authentic. The director's use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds to the realism, making it feel as though we are watching a real-life journey unfold before us. The performances by the actors, many of whom are non-professionals, are also impressive and add to the film's realism.
In This World is a powerful film that highlights the incredible struggles faced by refugees. It's a reminder of the humanity and compassion that exists in the face of adversity and the resilience of the human spirit. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the refugee experience and the impact of war and conflict on civilians.