This is a fascinating docudrama. The human smuggling drama unfolds steadily with a few good plot twists, as the 2 main characters trek across two continents (mostly by land) toward their destination (London).
Streamlined film-making on location, combined with the use of very talented untrained actors, makes the "movie" seem more like a well-done, dramatic documentary. The surround sound also heightens the "realism" of the journey and is excellent.
If you want to increase your enjoyment of the film, I strongly recommend that you take an extra hour or so to watch the behind-the-scenes featurette, director's commentary, and trailers. Although neither of the main characters is a professional "actor", by watching these special features the viewers discover that the young man who played the part of Jamal (real name of Jamal Udin Torabi) has been trying to gain status in the UK as a legal alien. That "revelation" further heightens the emotional impact and socio-political importance of this excellent film.
Get it and enjoy watching it.
Streamlined film-making on location, combined with the use of very talented untrained actors, makes the "movie" seem more like a well-done, dramatic documentary. The surround sound also heightens the "realism" of the journey and is excellent.
If you want to increase your enjoyment of the film, I strongly recommend that you take an extra hour or so to watch the behind-the-scenes featurette, director's commentary, and trailers. Although neither of the main characters is a professional "actor", by watching these special features the viewers discover that the young man who played the part of Jamal (real name of Jamal Udin Torabi) has been trying to gain status in the UK as a legal alien. That "revelation" further heightens the emotional impact and socio-political importance of this excellent film.
Get it and enjoy watching it.