Two young Senegalese, Sedu and Musa, have dreams of Europe in their heads. With stolen passports and borrowed courage, they embark on a dangerous Homeric odyssey. Hope flickers like a mirage and leads them through dangerous wastes and seas, where the salt air tastes their lips and danger lurks in every wave. Here, their brotherhood is tested in the traps of betrayal and despair. It's a testament to the undying power of dreams, even when you travel to the other side of the world for them. Italian director Matteo Garrone's film was nominated for an Oscar in the category of best international film.
"This is the first film that Matteo Garrone shot outside of his own country, but in Senegal and Morocco. And the first with which he entered the official competition program of the Venice Film Festival and won the Silver Lion for Best Director. In addition, the film features many non-professional actors, including seventeen-year-old Seydou Sarr, who played a shocking role and was awarded the prize for the best young actor. Although Garrone came up with the idea for the film himself, he and his script co-writers worked closely with several migrants. Even on the set, their real experience helped the director avoid clichés. Although it talks about a painful reality, the film is reminiscent of Homer's epics and lacks magical realism." (Compiler of the program Karolis Žukas)
World Premiere: Venice Film Festival, Competition Program, 2023
Awards: Best Director, Venice Film Festival, 2023