Watch Barikad

Barikad (Barricades) is a Haitian drama film from 2001, directed by Richard Senecal. It tells the story of a group of young Haitians who are struggling to survive in a country that has been ravaged by both political and natural disasters. The film takes place during the 1990s, a time when Haiti was facing a deadly cholera epidemic as well as political turmoil. The protagonist of the film is Kevin, played by Haendel Dorfeuil, a young man who dreams of becoming a famous artist. Kevin is part of a group of friends who live in a shantytown on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, the capital city of Haiti.

The opening scene of the movie is a panoramic shot of the shantytown where Kevin and his friends live. The camera follows them as they go about their daily lives, portraying the harsh reality they face. The streets are dirty and crowded, and the houses are made of scraps of wood and tin. The sound of gunshots can be heard in the distance.

Kevin's dream of becoming an artist is put on hold when he is forced to join a group of political activists who are fighting against the government. The political situation in Haiti is volatile, and the activists believe that they can change the country through peaceful protests. However, their attempts are met with violence by the government forces, who attack and kill protestors.

As the conflict between the activists and the government intensifies, Kevin finds it increasingly difficult to maintain his dreams and aspirations. He is torn between his desire to make a difference and his longing for a better life. His girlfriend, Lisette (Gessica Geneus), tries to convince him to leave the country and start a new life abroad. However, Kevin is determined to stay and fight for his country's future.

The film is notable for its portrayal of the Haitian people's resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the chaos and violence that surrounds them, the characters in the film find hope in their relationships with one another. The camaraderie between Kevin and his friends is a testament to the power of community.

The movie's music is also an essential part of its storytelling. The soundtrack features a mix of Haitian folk music and rap, which add depth and richness to the film's portrayal of Haitian culture.

In summary, Barikad (Barricades) is a powerful film that tells a story of struggle, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. The film's portrayal of Haiti's political and social turmoil is honest and unflinching, but it is also a celebration of the Haitian people's strength and vitality. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in Haitian culture or anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing developing countries.