Congo Boy

With its star-making, Cannes award-winning turn, this coming-of-age tale about a teenage refugee whose musical ambitions might just save his life is as poetic as it is uplifting.

Seventeen-year-old Robert is trying his best to make ends meet. But as a Congolese refugee in Bangui, in the Central African Republic, the odds are stacked against him. His parents have been jailed for the ‘crime’ of being refugees, and Robert must look after his four younger siblings. He’s also got his final exams to worry about. He copes by writing songs and lyrics, in the process holding on to his dream of making it as a musician.

Based on director Rafiki Fariala’s own experiences, Congo Boy is the first Central African film to screen at Cannes, where it received a standing ovation along with charismatic star Bradley Fiomona’s Un Certain Regard Best Actor prize. Leading a stellar cast of non-professionals who add a further layer of authenticity to the story, Fiomona shines through Robert’s poignant interactions with his siblings and his thrilling skills on the mic, showcasing a rousing soundtrack of tunes written by Fariala. Shot on location in Bangui, Congo Boy is a paean to the indomitable human spirit and an undeniable pleasure to boot.

Content: Melbourne International Film Festival