Watch War Don Don

War Don Don is a gripping and thought-provoking documentary film that explores the aftermath of the civil war in Sierra Leone. The movie, released in 2010, focuses on the trial of Issa Sesay, a former leader of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF), a notorious rebel group responsible for some of the most heinous crimes committed during the conflict.

The film takes us on a journey through the trial, revealing the complexities of justice in post-conflict societies. The trial is held at the premises of the Special Court for Sierra Leone, an international tribunal established in collaboration with the Sierra Leonean government to prosecute those who bore the greatest responsibility for the crimes committed during the civil war. As the trial unfolds, the film delves deep into the legal system in Sierra Leone, exploring the relationships between law, politics, and power.

Through interviews with key actors in the trial, War Don Don sheds light on the challenges of prosecuting war crimes, particularly in a country like Sierra Leone, where the wounds of the war are still raw, and where the memories and legacies of the conflict continue to shape political and social relationships. The film highlights the tensions between international justice and local perceptions of justice, as well as the challenges of rebuilding trust and social cohesion in communities that have been torn apart by violence.

One of the strengths of War Don Don is its nuanced portrayal of the accused, Issa Sesay. The film does not shy away from the fact that Sesay was a key figure in the RUF, a ruthless rebel group that carried out atrocities against civilians, including rape, mutilation, and forced recruitment of child soldiers. However, the film also shows Sesay's human side, depicting his interactions with his lawyers, his family, and his fellow detainees. Through these scenes, the movie humanizes Sesay, allowing the audience to see him not just as a monster but as a complex individual with hopes, fears, and dreams.

War Don Don also explores the role of the media in shaping public perceptions of the trial. The film highlights the sensationalism and superficiality of some of the reporting on the trial, and how these tendencies can distort the pursuit of justice. However, the film also shows how journalists can play a positive role in raising awareness about the legal process and the issues at stake.

Throughout the film, the haunting music of Sierra Leonean musician Bai Kamara Jr. adds to the emotional impact. The music underscores the gravity of the issues at stake, while also providing a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of Sierra Leone.

In addition to its engaging storyline, War Don Don is visually stunning, featuring beautiful shots of Sierra Leone's landscapes and people. The movie's cinematography captures the colors and textures of the country, from the bustling streets of Freetown to the lush forests of the interior.

Overall, War Don Don is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that raises important questions about justice, accountability, and reconciliation in post-conflict societies. The film's nuanced portrayal of the trial and its protagonists challenges viewers to confront the complexities of pursuing justice in a context where the wounds of war are still fresh. Ultimately, the movie leaves us with a sense of the urgency of addressing the legacies of conflict, while also encouraging us to find ways to move beyond the pain and towards a more hopeful future.

War Don Don is a 2010 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.