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Somali-Austrian filmmaker Mo Harawe’s debut feature film, The Village Next to Paradise, is set for release on 30 January. This film, which premiered in the prestigious ‘Un Certain Regard’ section at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, has captivated audiences for its poignant portrayal of life in a Somali village under the constant threat of drone strikes.
The Village Next to Paradise takes viewers to a small Somali village where survival is a daily struggle. The story follows Marmargade, a father working tirelessly to create better opportunities for his son, Cigaal, amidst the harsh realities of their village ironically named “Paradise”. Adding to the emotional depth of the narrative is the strained relationship between Marmargade and his sister, Araweelo. While Araweelo dreams of establishing her own tailoring business after separating from her partner, Marmargade relies on her financial support to secure his son’s future.
The film opens with a harrowing US drone strike, setting a poignant tone for the exploration of life under such persistent threats. Against this backdrop, Harawe weaves a narrative of love, perseverance and ambition, offering a rare cinematic lens into everyday Somali life.
In addition to its Cannes premiere, the film won the Jury Prize at the Marrakech International Film Festival in late 2024, adding to its growing list of accolades. Critics have applauded the moving performances of its cast, many of whom are newcomers to acting.
The film’s director, Mo Harawe, who was born in Mogadishu, relocated to Austria in 2009 and pursued studies in visual communication and film at the Kunsthochschule Kassel. Before making his feature-length debut, he gained recognition for short films like Life on the Horn (2020) and Will My Parents Come to See Me (2022). The latter garnered nominations for major awards, including the European Film Award and the Austrian and German Film Awards.
Harawe’s debut feature has solidified his reputation as an emerging voice in international cinema, particularly for his ability to balance deeply personal storytelling with broader socio-political themes.
Set for release on 30 January, The Village Next to Paradise promises to be an early highlight of the year for cinema enthusiasts. With its powerful themes and evocative storytelling, this film is a must-see for audiences seeking a thought-provoking and heartfelt narrative.
Vivian Asamoah
