War Witch is depressing to watch. Having to choose between killing your parents yourself versus having them killed in a worse fashion by someone else is a cruel selection no child deserves to make, and War Witch poses that selection literally within the first five minutes, inspired by the real life recruitment mechanisms of child soldiers in Africa. But what makes the film still worth watching is the way writer-director Kim Nguyen focuses on how, despite everything, Komona clings to her humanity, albeit through the supernatural vision manifesting from a mix of hallucinogens and grief. War Witch won’t be an easy watch for most viewers, but it’s a unique story that has to be told, and we’re glad Nguyen rose up to the task.
"Along with the moral lesson, Nguyen remembers to give auds some pleasures, including the exquisitely chosen soundtrack of African folk and pop music, Nicolas Bolduc's cinematography and the very artful use of sound throughout."
— Leslie Felperin
Somewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa, Komona a 14-year-old girl tells her unborn child growing inside her the story of her life since she has been at war. Everything started when she was abducted by the rebel army at the age of 12.
During a war in sub-Saharan Africa, a rebel group led by the warlord Great Tiger raided villages to kidnap children and force them to become child soldiers. One such child is Komona, whose vivid hallucinations convince the rebels that she has supernatural powers.
Newcomer Rachel Mwanza.
Honestly, this is a tough watch. I really needed to lie down after watching this one.
Oscars
1 nomination
Berlin
1 win, 1 nomination
Spirit Awards
1 nomination
Nat. Board of Review
1 win
