Ep 19. For Sama

For Sama is a powerful and emotional documentary that follows the journey of a young Syrian woman named Waad al-Kateab as she navigates through the horrors of the Syrian civil war. The film is shot entirely from Waad's perspective, using her own footage and diary entries to create an intimate and honest portrayal of life in war-torn Aleppo.

The story begins in 2011 when Waad is a student at the University of Aleppo. She falls in love with a young doctor, Hamza, and they get married soon after. The couple is excited about their future together, but their plans are interrupted when the civil war breaks out. Waad, Hamza, and their fellow citizens of Aleppo are faced with constant bombings, shootings, and other acts of violence that threaten their lives on a daily basis.

Despite the danger, Waad continues to document her experiences with her camera. She wants to tell the world what is happening in Aleppo and to show the world that the people living there are not just casualties of war, but real people with families, hopes, and dreams. Waad's footage is raw and unfiltered, showing both the beauty and the tragedy of life in Aleppo.

As the war rages on, Waad and Hamza start a family. Their daughter, Sama, is born in the midst of the conflict, and Waad films her birth and the early months of her life. Sama becomes a symbol of hope for Waad and Hamza, a reminder that they are fighting for a better future for their children and for all Syrians.

The film shows the toll that the war takes on Waad and her family. They are forced to make difficult decisions about staying in Aleppo or fleeing to safety, and they must deal with the death and destruction all around them. Waad's footage captures the grief and trauma of losing loved ones, the fear of being bombed or shot, and the scarcity of food, water, and medical supplies.

Despite the darkness, there are moments of brightness in the film. Waad captures scenes of children playing and laughing, couples getting married, and friends celebrating Eid together. These moments remind us that even in the midst of war, life goes on, and people cling to hope and joy whenever possible.

Through it all, Waad remains determined to tell the story of Aleppo. She believes that if the world sees what is happening there, they will be moved to take action and to help end the violence. Her footage and diary entries become a testament to the strength and resilience of the Syrian people, and a call to action for those who have the power to make a difference.

For Sama is a heartbreaking and inspiring documentary that sheds light on the human cost of war. It is a reminder that behind every statistic and news headline, there are real people whose lives are being torn apart by conflict. It is a plea for empathy and understanding, and a call to action for those who can help bring an end to the violence.