Watch Trees of Peace

Trees of Peace is a poignant and compelling drama that premiered in 2021, directed by Alanna Brown. This film uniquely centers around the horrific events of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, showcasing the atrocities through the eyes and shared experiences of four women who seek refuge from the chaos and violence that surrounds them. The ensemble led by Eliane Umuhire, Charmaine Bingwa, Ella Cannon, and other talented actors, brings to the screen a heart-wrenching narrative of resilience, unity, and the human spirit's tenacity in the face of unimaginable circumstances.

The film opens across the lush, verdant landscapes of Rwanda, a striking contrast to the horror that is about to unfold. As the country is thrown into turmoil by the onset of the genocide, four women from different walks of life and ethnic backgrounds are forced to take shelter in a cramped, hidden space. Eliane Umuhire, with a soft yet powerful presence, portrays a character grappling with the sudden transformation of her life and country. Charmaine Bingwa steps into the role of a woman whose strength and conviction are instrumental in keeping the group's spirits alive, while Ella Cannon's character brings her own complex layers to the story, her perspective adding depth to the narrative.

The hidden room becomes a silent, isolated world for the women, away from the brutality, but not spared from the psychological and physical impacts of being trapped. The film delves into the emotional and interpersonal dynamics among the women, as they are stripped of their former identities and are left with nothing but their shared human experience. It displays a range of deeply human responses, from the fragile to the fortified, as the women confront their own prejudices, fears, and hopes. Confined together for months, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, as they forge an unbreakable bond of sisterhood in the pursuit of survival.

Trees of Peace pays meticulous attention to character development, allowing the audience to become intimately acquainted with each woman's personal struggle. Director Alanna Brown takes viewers on a rollercoaster of emotions, where tension, anxiety, and the constant threat of discovery are interlaced with moments of tenderness, compassion, and even brief instances of levity which highlight the resilience of the human spirit. The dialogue is thoughtfully crafted, giving voice to the pain and endurance not only of the women but of an entire nation rattling under the weight of hatred and division.

The storytelling approach in Trees of Peace is raw and unfiltered, not shying away from the harsh realities of genocide. The film paints a vivid portrait of the consequences of violence and the cyclical nature of trauma, yet it equally emphasizes the themes of hope and the possibility of reconciliation. The movie underscores the intrinsic need for human connection and empathy, proposing that these are the true sustaining forces during times of complete despair.

From a technical standpoint, the movie utilizes a minimalist set and relies heavily on the actors' performances to convey the story. The confined space in which most of the film takes place acts as a crucible, forcing the women—and essentially the audience—to confront the essence of humanity when stripped of societal constructs. The cinematography captures the stark contrast between the serenity of the Rwandan countryside and the intense, claustrophobic atmosphere of the women's hideout.

The score of the film is delicately composed, with poignant melodies that pair with the unfolding narrative to amplify the emotional gravity of each scene. The careful use of sound and silence also plays a critical role, adding layers to the film's portrayal of the contrasting worlds inside and outside the women's refuge.

A tribute to the strength and endurance of women, Trees of Peace holds a mirror to the audience, questioning the depths of human cruelty as well as the heights of compassion and solidarity. It is a story not just about survival, but also about the indefatigable pursuit of light in the darkest of times. The movie ultimately serves as a call to never forget such tragedies and to remember the countless stories—both told and untold—of those who endure the worst of what history has to offer.

Trees of Peace is a film that transcends its setting, becoming a universal narrative addressing the effects of war, violence, and discrimination. It is a significant contribution to the cinematic telling of human history's more somber chapters, and a powerful reminder of the capacity for empathy that can transcend the greatest of divides. It's a thought-provoking, emotionally charged cinematic piece that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll, embodying the notion that, even from the bleakest soil, the trees of peace can grow.

Trees of Peace is a 2021 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.