Watch Tanzania Transit

Tanzania Transit (2018) is a documentary film directed by Jeroen van Velzen that takes audiences on a beautiful and enlightening journey across Tanzania. The film delivers a unique perspective on life in Tanzania by exploring the experiences of its passengers on the journey from the coast of Dar es Salaam to the hilly interior of the country. The film shows life as it is lived in small communities by the Tanzanian people who do not have access to the modern amenities that most of us take for granted. It is a beautiful and heartfelt portrayal of culture, tradition and the human spirit.

The story is told through the eyes of several passengers, whose different stories and experiences make for a rich and diverse tapestry of life in Tanzania. The diverse cast of passengers includes a young woman searching for work, a Muslim cleric traveling to a meeting, an elderly couple returning to their village and a farmer trying to transport his goats to a new market.

The train journey is not an easy one, and the difficulties are portrayed in an authentic and honest way. The train jolts and rattles along the tracks, constantly breaking down and causing delays. Passengers are forced to endure the heat, overcrowding, and frequent stops due to the train's mechanical troubles.

Despite the many challenges the passengers face, they remain surprisingly positive and upbeat throughout the journey. They sing and dance, share their stories and laugh, creating a sense of community on board the train. The film captures these moments of joy and human connection amid the harsh realities of everyday life.

Throughout the film, viewers are exposed to Tanzania's stunning landscapes, from the shimmering Indian Ocean coastline to the majestic Kilimanjaro Mountain. The filmmakers capture scenes of the bustling markets, colorful sunsets, and lush green fields.

The film's score is an integral part of the storytelling, with African rhythms and melodies creating a sense of place and emotion. The score is a fusion of traditional and modern music, reflecting the changes occurring in Tanzania today.

Director Jeroen van Velzen intimately captures the beauty and complexity of life in Tanzania. His focus on the personal stories of the passengers allows the audience to connect with the people and the country they are traveling through.

Tanzania Transit is an honest and raw portrayal of life in Tanzania. It sheds light on the struggles and challenges faced by ordinary people, but also the hope, resilience, and beauty found in their daily lives. This documentary film is a must-see for anyone interested in African culture and the human spirit.

Tanzania Transit is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.