Watch Those Who Jump

Those Who Jump is a documentary film that takes place in Melilla, a small Spanish enclave in North Africa surrounded by Morocco. The film follows Abou Bakar Sidibé, a young man from Mali, as he attempts to scale the border fence to gain entry to Melilla and ultimately Europe. The film also features other immigrants from different African countries, all of whom are attempting to make the same journey.

The filmmakers take a unique approach in making the film, as it was largely self-shot by Sidibé using a mobile phone. This gives the film a raw and intimate feel, as the audience is able to experience the emotional journey of the main character and those he meets along the way. The film explores the desperation and determination of those attempting to cross the border, the harsh realities they face, and the physical and psychological toll it takes on them.

The film is divided into three parts, each named after a different location along the fence: "Forbidden Zone," "The Mountain," and "The Barbed Wire." Each part explores a different aspect of the journey and the challenges faced by the immigrants. The first part, "Forbidden Zone," shows the immigrants as they gather in the forest waiting for their chance to approach the fence. The second part, "The Mountain," follows the immigrants as they attempt to climb over the mountain to avoid border guards, while the third and final part, "The Barbed Wire," examines the harrowing experience of trying to cross the razor wire at the top of the fence.

Throughout the film, Sidibé shares his personal story of why he is attempting to cross the border. He talks about his dreams of a better life for himself and his family, and the struggles he has faced in his home country of Mali. His story is heartbreaking and showcases the desperation that drives many to risk their lives to make the journey. Sidibé's narration is accompanied by stunning images of the African landscape and the harsh reality of the journey, creating a rich and moving experience for the audience.

The filmmakers also use sound design to great effect, with a haunting and evocative score that amplifies the emotional drama on screen. The sound of the fence being climbed or the roar of helicopters hovering overhead add to the tension and help the audience understand the intensity of the experience.

The film also includes interviews with border guards and other authorities, providing an insight into the political and social context of the situation. It highlights the difficult choices faced by the border guards, who are often caught in the middle of the conflict between immigrants and their superiors. The film shows the human side of the situation, while also exploring the larger political and economic factors that drive immigration.

Overall, Those Who Jump is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on the experience of those attempting to cross the border between Morocco and Melilla. The personal and raw nature of the film, along with its use of innovative filmmaking techniques, make it a unique and important contribution to the discussion around immigration and the ongoing refugee crisis.