Africa Blanca (2025) Movie Script
ACROSS THE VAST AFRICAN CONTINENT,
HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE
SUFFER FROM ALBINISM.
ACCORDING TO UN DATA, SINCE 2006,
NEARLY 800 ATTACKS
ON THESE VULNERABLE PEOPLE
WERE REPORTED
IN 28 AFRICAN COUNTRIES.
PEOPLE WITH ALBINISM ARE OFTEN KILLED
AFTER BEING MUTILATED
AND THEIR BLOOD
IS USED IN WITCHCRAFT.
EVEN AFTER DEATH,
THEIR GRAVES ARE DESECRATED
TO RECOVER THEIR BODIES.
THEIR MUTILATED BODIES
ARE SOLD FOR RITUALS,
BECOMING COMMODITIES:
EACH LIMB SELLS FOR
600 TO 2,000 EUROS,
AND A WHOLE BODY
CAN FETCH 70,000 EUROS.
THE BLOOD KEEPS FLOWING...
INDIFFERENCE IS THE WORST EVIL.
AFRICA BLANCA
A FILM BY AZLARABE ALAOUI
I knew you went there.
What were you looking for?
What you did was dangerous.
You're risking your life.
What if they see you?
Dear God.
I can't bear to think they'd see you.
Mom, I was far away,
not even in the village.
What do you mean?
You were very close to the village.
Do you realize how dangerous it is?
We left the village
because of those sorcerers,
to protect you from them.
When will you understand that?
My white skin.
You know if these people see you,
they could hurt you.
And I couldn't bear that.
I couldn't bear
if anything happened to you.
Try to understand.
Mom, it's hot.
Sweetie, it's just warm.
It's the same
as your body temperature.
Look, feel it.
Beautiful white coat.
-Aunt Achata.
-Who's there?
Me, Mamankita.
-Hello, Aunt Achata.
-Hello, Mamankita.
Imam Abdallah wants you
to come to the mosque right away.
The imam wants to see me?
What's wrong?
-I don't know.
-Is it serious?
I don't know.
Alright, I'll go now.
Sister Achata, I have bad news.
Do you know Issa?
He's a blacksmith
from the Tonki tribe.
Three men from another tribe
visited him
asking him to forge swords
with monkey tails.
Sorcerers' swords.
Ousmane is like a son to me,
I don't want him
to meet his father's fate.
Brother,
what do you suggest?
Issa knows the way
to the albino shelter in Tanzania.
He'll take Ousmane there.
He'll be safe.
But the albino shelter
is like a prison, brother.
We have no choice, sister.
No, I won't leave my mother.
Impossible. No one will separate us.
There's another way. Go to France.
What?
France.
My son Amadou
has lived there for 7 years.
I hear from him regularly.
He's settled
and works there. He'll help you.
Don't worry, madam,
I know someone
who can help you get to
Morocco.
Your husband was a pious man,
he has disciples in Fez.
They'll be glad to help you.
You can go on pilgrimage.
I think it's the right decision.
Are you OK?
Don't worry,
everything will be fine, God willing.
These sorcerers
hunt us in life
and in death,
but we won't let them.
You know what we'll do?
We'll hide your father's grave
so the sorcerers can never find it.
Help me
pull the carpet over the grave.
That's good.
I'll adjust it here.
We'll meet again if all goes well.
If not, goodbye.
Search the house.
Listen, Mom,
if you want to stay, that's fine,
I'll go to Tanzania.
Darling, you want to live without me?
You haven't spent a single day
without me since birth.
But Mom, you'll suffer because of me.
I will suffer,
but it's nothing compared to the pain
of living without you.
You're my white coat.
You know that.
Don't worry, Mom.
I'll always be by your side.
Thank you, sweetheart.
-Mom.
-Please,
don't hurt him.
Please, don't hurt him.
Let me have him.
Leave me alone, I've done nothing.
You killed our master!
Cursed sorcerers,
stay away from them.
Mom.
Drop your weapons.
Drop your weapons now!
Cursed sorcerers.
Get out!
-Mom.
-Yes?
This journey will be dangerous.
Don't worry.
Sure,
the sun will burn your skin a bit,
but it'll be
like a short walk for us.
It won't be just a walk.
You'll have to take risks.
Give me the binoculars.
You may run into bandits.
My friend, danger is everywhere.
Mom,
like I told you,
this journey is too risky for us.
No.
Don't you trust me?
-Yes.
-Well then.
You must think carefully
before taking this trip.
Don't be afraid.
Everything will be fine.
God willing.
Mother Achata,
you must go to Morocco on foot
with this group.
What's your decision?
We have no choice.
Here's your money.
Have a safe journey,
Achata and Ousmane.
Thank you Issa, for everything.
Let's go.
No.
Don't tell me this ghost
is traveling with us.
What did he do to you?
He'll bring us bad luck.
Listen carefully,
I'm in charge of this journey.
It's my responsibility,
and no one tells me what to do.
But we all know
the ghost brings misfortune.
He'll curse our journey.
Ghost or not, I don't care.
I won't lose money
over superstitions.
A ghost is bad luck.
Want them to stay?
Pay for their seats.
I'm not the only one
who believes this.
Others do too.
Then you can all chip in.
Let's go.
Look,
they're human beings, just like you.
Look, they're young.
They're your age.
Look at that one,
he looks like the neighbor's son.
Don't you think?
Darling,
don't be afraid, I'm here.
Let's go.
Come on. Let's go.
You're making us late.
I was stupid to agree to take you.
Can't you see
the sun is burning my son's skin?
I don't care about your son.
Let's go.
Hello.
Who am I taking?
Everyone here.
Here's your money.
It's time to leave.
We're leaving.
Let's go.
We're leaving.
Hurry up. Help the women.
Cursed ghost, you won't come with us.
You won't come with us.
Leave me alone.
Cursed ghost.
Leave my son alone.
Leave me be.
You won't come with us.
Mom.
My son. Help.
Leave my son alone.
Ousmane.
Ousmane. Let me go.
Let him go.
Let him go.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Let's go.
Ousmane.
In the name of God, the Merciful.
Say: "I seek refuge
with the Lord of dawn."
In the name of God,
the Most Merciful.
Rest. Rest.
Mom. Mom.
Don't be afraid. Don't be afraid.
She's alive.
Sleep. Sleep, and rest.
Dear Ghalia, bring the tea set.
Alright.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
My white skin,
my gift from heaven,
my beloved child,
know that nothing can tear us apart,
not even death.
Do you hear me?
Why don't you feed the little girl?
It's her birthday.
My daughter Acha is sick.
We haven't found a cure.
Her health gets worse each day.
I was deeply moved
by what happened to you.
I have only this tent
and these camels.
And I'll never leave them behind
to run away.
This is our fate.
No matter how we try to hide,
we're destined to escape.
Ousmane. Ousmane, the tea.
Thank you.
Ma'am.
Thanks.
What will you do now?
I've been thinking all week.
We must go to the Zawiya of Fez.
In that case,
tomorrow, God willing, I'll take you
to the nearest road.
Maybe we'll find
a truck or car to drive you.
Ghalia, some tea?
With pleasure.
Oh Lord, oh Lord.
Peace be with you.
What happened...
I hope you're alright.
Listen, cousin...
You see this little girl.
I've tried every remedy for her.
but nothing worked.
Sheikh Sidi Moubarak
told me to bring some hair
like your albino son's,
to make incense...
Maybe God will heal her.
Please, give me some hair.
The hair...
What is it?
Here are clothes.
You may need them for the road.
Thank you so much,
I really need them.
I lost all my things in the desert.
You're welcome.
Aichata.
Let's go. The camels are ready.
It's a long journey.
Everything's ready?
Yes. Let's go.
Alright.
Let me help you.
May God protect you.
In God's name, His will be done.
There is no power
nor might except in God,
the Most High, Most Great.
In God's name, my daughter...
I made incense with Ousmane's hair,
son of Sheikh Sidi Mamadou.
May God heal and protect you.
Lord, heal my daughter.
Lord, protect her.
Hope you're well.
Don't worry about me.
It'll be OK.
Ousmane,
your mother told me you sing.
Is it true you can sing?
No. No, I don't sing.
But I write poetry.
I see. Recite us a poem, then.
Alright.
Mom, hand me the notebook.
Thanks.
I was but pale sunlight's waste,
filled with dark corners,
woven with sick spiders.
I was just a sky of
shivers and grudge.
A floor
where countless termites sing.
I was but a weightless being,
an exiled body
swollen with rotten pride.
I was just an incoherent shell,
a senseless sin,
a deceptive virtue,
until the day you came
with your seeds,
telling me the world finally accepted
to grant happiness to suffering,
abundance to hunger,
peace to war.
I have become prophecy again,
a giant star
lit in every corner of the sky.
You know it.
Only love will force me to LIVE.
I have no place in a death
I no longer wish to watch.
Ousmane,
Achata...
Do you see what I see?
A car... a car!
Is your car stuck in the sand?
-A car stuck?
-Yes.
Peace be with you!
And with you.
My name is Khalil.
And I'm Vittorio.
Hello, sir.
Vittorio.
What's that?
This is Zoubir.
Where are you going?
They're my guests.
I'm looking for someone
to take them to Fez.
What a coincidence.
We're going to Fez.
Zoubir is from there. I have an idea.
Help us get the car out of the sand,
and I'll take your friends to Fez.
He looks a lot like Ousmane.
All albinos look alike.
Sorry, I didn't mean that.
When he learned
I was pregnant with Ousmane,
he came to live with us,
to protect him.
Protect him from whom?
It's a long story.
It's beautiful.
Indeed.
It belonged to my late husband.
It looks very old.
You're right.
He gave it to me
to pass on to Ousmane
once he memorizes the Quran.
But my son is lazy.
He doesn't know the whole Quran yet.
The car needs to cool down
for at least five minutes.
OK.
We've passed it down
from generation to generation
since Islam came to Senegal.
We've had this dagger
for 1,000 years.
A thousand years?
-I'll buy it.
-No.
It's not for sale, sir.
It's an heirloom, I can't sell it.
200,000 dirhams.
Please stop insisting,
I won't sell it.
Please give it back to me.
Give it back, sir.
Let's go.
Zoubir.
Finally, we made it.
Look over there, son,
that's where the Zawiya is.
Fez is an ancient city.
Well,
I need to get going.
You know where to find me in Tangier.
Let's go.
We'll drop you off near the Zawiya.
God is alive...
God is alive...
How is Sheikh Mamadou?
Sadly, he passed away.
My condolences, madam.
May his soul rest in peace.
Sheikh Mamadou was a
scholar at the Zawiya.
He was a wonderful man.
It's truly beautiful.
Just as your father described it.
Welcome, welcome.
I welcome the family of my brother
and dear friend, Sheikh Mamadou.
How was your journey?
The journey went well.
Just the ravages of time,
high blood pressure
and illness.
But...
I'm proud and honored to be here.
Coming to the Zawiya,
it's a pilgrimage for me.
A dream finally coming true.
Thank God.
Your father was a virtuous sheikh.
I was sad when he left Fez.
The same suffering,
same story, same ordeal.
Come, my son Ousmane, follow me.
Achata. Achata.
Come.
This wing is for men only.
But I can't be separated from my son.
Mom, what's wrong?
She won't let us stay together.
What? No, I can't leave my mom.
It's impossible. There's a men's wing
and one for women.
Here in the Zawiya,
men and women can't live together.
It's to respect everyone's privacy.
What privacy, madam?
What could an old woman
like me have to hide from men?
I have nothing to hide
from women either.
Mom, let's go.
-Ousmane.
-Mom.
Ousmane, listen to me.
We have no choice right now.
Yes we do, we can leave the Zawiya.
Where would we go, son?
We have no money, no work.
We don't even have papers.
Please.
Just give me time to get enough money
to reach Tangier.
But mom.
Listen to me, darling,
my white one.
I know separation is hard,
but we must accept it.
At least we're safe here.
That's all that matters.
Please.
Just give me a few months
to save enough money
so we can go to Europe.
OK?
Ousmane...
Come here, son...
You'll get used to this life.
Peace be with you.
Peace and God's mercy be upon you.
Where are you from?
Senegal.
Welcome.
Thanks.
Where are you from?
I'm from Mali.
Can I use this closet?
Yes, of course.
How's life here?
Women live in one wing,
men in another.
Surprise!
Here's the Moroccan tajine.
Smells good, Zoubir.
Thank you.
Want to try some?
Living outside the Zawiya
will be hard for you.
I understand, Zoubir.
But we're tired of living apart.
What will you do
when Ousmane marries?
Will you cohabit then?
Of course.
Of course.
What if his wife disagrees?
She won't have a choice.
The woman who
will separate me from my son
hasn't been born yet.
Isn't that right, my white coat?
This is my favorite spot.
Welcome to my kingdom.
-Zoubir?
-Yes?
You know why we're going to Europe,
but you never told us
why you want to leave.
I have no home here, no ties,
no family, no friends.
Goodbye. See you next time.
-Zoubir, where are you going?
-To the tannery.
Mom, I'm going with her.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
What is it? Were you sleeping?
Give me my joint.
Ever smoke before?
No.
That's why you got so high.
It's hashish,
a drug that works like alcohol.
You forget and stop thinking.
I don't understand you.
Why?
We've been together two months,
I know nothing about you.
I know nothing about your past.
To be honest,
nothing important
happened in my past.
I lived alone with my mother,
alone in a shack.
My life was like a prison.
I wrote poetry.
You won't make a living
from poetry, Ousmane.
Why don't you understand me?
You won't get mad?
No.
I don't understand
why you dress like this,
and why you have a man's name.
My name is Zoubida.
Zoubida.
And these are street
clothes, Ousmane.
The street
is like a jungle surrounded by walls.
A girl like me,
trying to make a living,
can't be prey.
I dress like a hunter.
Prey?
What do you mean by "prey?"
Prey, my friend, prey.
When a lion attacks me, I'm the prey.
Understand?
Yes.
The prey.
What's that? A gift?
If you want.
Thank you.
I'll leave you.
Though days may plot against you,
no earth or sky will shelter you.
No slum
or skyscraper will take you in.
Only death calls to me.
Sir... sir...
No land or sky to protect you.
No slum,
no skyscraper will shelter you.
Only death calls me.
Your fate
is already laid out, Ousmane.
Your name is Ousmane, right?
Yes, Ousmane.
What's done is done.
Leave it behind.
Don't look back.
Ousmane, keep going.
Keep moving.
Never look...
never look behind you.
Never.
Watch your heads.
He survived miraculously.
Shit.
This is all my fault.
Sweetheart,
don't blame yourself,
you did nothing wrong.
We need to think about our next move.
I can't let you stay here,
this isn't my place.
Yes,
we need to leave quickly.
I have another solution.
We can go to Europe without money.
But it's dangerous,
very dangerous.
Have you ever heard of...
Boza?
Boza?
Yes, Boza.
Where are you going?
We're here.
You, the albino! Are you Zoubir?
No, it's not me, it's her.
I'm Zoubir.
Amadou said
there were three of you.
And there are three of us.
With the old woman?
What old woman?
Your mother is the old woman.
Look at your insolence.
Never seen
an old woman travel before?
Brute.
This way, follow me.
We're here.
What's going on?
You again, ghost?
You know him?
Yes, he was with us in the desert.
This ghost followed us from Senegal.
He brought us bad luck.
Because of him, we had
many problems in the desert.
Shut up. Move it.
Keep moving.
There's surveillance here.
All the red markers are guards.
There are four guard posts.
Two guards
at each post, eight in all.
There's a customs officer here.
Two more guards over there.
The yellow markers, these three,
are guard dogs.
They're here for us.
And two guards here too.
And two more over here.
Two plus two equals four.
Like the four on the other side,
they're here for security.
Every six hours,
the guards change posts.
There are four guard posts.
I've been here two years.
This one here...
Others come and go.
He patrols.
The president's been here longest.
He's been here 5 years.
He's tried to cross 11 times.
-Eleven times?
-Yes, 11 times.
Look at his face,
you'll see the scars.
We can't make mistakes.
But he keeps trying.
That's why this camp exists,
to bring Africans together.
He's in charge here.
-Is he the president?
-Yes.
Customs officers are downstairs.
The guards here move...
No way.
Alright.
Aunt Achata.
Ousmane.
This can't be.
Amadou?
What are you doing here?
It's a small world.
Your father
helped us escape to this place.
May God protect him.
My father always
loved helping people.
It's in his nature.
But my uncle, Imam Abdallah,
said you lived in France
and sent him letters from there.
Letters?
A friend sent them
from France.
Why do you want to go to France?
To become president of France.
Really?
What do you think?
Wasn't Obama president of the US?
His father
was an African immigrant, right?
Then I can become
president of France.
I'm sorry.
Is it funny, boy?
That's a girl, nephew.
I apologize.
It's OK.
Nephew,
you're already president here.
-Aunt Achata.
-Yes?
You and Zoubir, go over there,
to the tent.
Ousmane, come.
You, go to your tent.
You want to separate us too?
I can't sleep without my son.
Don't worry, Mom, I can sleep alone.
Since when do you sleep alone?
Trust me.
Good night.
Good night, Zoubida.
Thank you, president.
You're welcome.
I'm going to bed too. Good night.
What's wrong, Aunt Achata?
I'll get some water.
Auntie Achata.
Auntie Achata.
We're going to the fence.
It's dangerous there.
We'll have to climb fences.
Try to understand.
Don't worry, I told you.
No, I can't accept that,
not with your fragile health.
Listen to me, Aunt Achata,
let Ousmane go.
Once he's in Europe,
he'll help you migrate
in better conditions.
It's better.
Never without my son.
Everyone gather round.
Wake up.
Assembly time.
Everyone gather round.
Ousmane, wake up.
We need to gather in the yard.
Wake up, Ousmane.
Everyone, wake up.
Everyone, wake up. Gather round.
-What's going on?
-They're calling us.
Where's my mother?
Over there. Come.
Everyone gather round.
Hurry up.
Dear people,
I have an urgent matter to share.
We've received information that
the police will raid our camp
tomorrow night.
Your determination and courage
will help us
make it to the other side.
Each of you must
get ready,
because tomorrow morning,
we must leave before they arrive.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
We are few in numbers,
but I see ambition in your eyes.
You have courage and dreams.
We will make it to the other side.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
Go to your tents and get ready
for the Boza.
Boza.
Come on.
Come here,
watch carefully. Like this.
Come.
Come here, look.
Like this.
Go, keep practicing.
Speed is crucial.
Get down.
Is that how you want to pass?
Give me that. Move. Very weak.
Ousmane, take this.
You have five minutes.
Quick.
Come on, Ousmane.
Hurry.
War is coming, hurry.
Good.
Watch out for guard dogs.
Come on.
Careful. Good.
Well done, champ. You're a tiger.
Bravo.
Come on, Ousmane.
Come on, let out your anger.
My people,
I believe in you.
I can see you're all ready.
Tomorrow, we'll attack the Boza.
You are warriors,
and I trust you.
I know your bravery.
Be like boxers.
Strike on both sides.
The enemy comes with sticks.
Hit left, hit right.
Don't give your opponent time
to catch their breath.
Move and strike.
You need agility and strength,
speed and efficiency.
Be like tigers.
Act as though you were tigers.
Strike like this.
Hard and fast, like this.
-Got it?
-Yes.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
Smother him.
That's the way.
Dodge the blows.
Dodge the baton strikes.
Tomorrow, we must
Boza.
Boza.
Come on.
Time to go.
Let's go.
It's time to leave.
Have you seen Ousmane?
No.
This can't be. Ousmane?
Have you seen Ousmane?
-I looked everywhere.
-Check the other side.
-Alright.
-Ousmane.
This can't be. My son.
Have you seen my son?
Ousmane. My son.
General, let's go.
Let's go.
Have you seen him?
No. Where is he?
I don't know.
Let's go.
I can't leave without my son.
I'm sorry.
Auntie, I'm sorry.
Zoubir. My son.
We'll find him.
We must find him.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
There are tracks here.
-Ousmane.
-Ousmane. My son.
My God.
My son.
Are you OK?
My God.
Ousmane, are you OK?
Look at me, son.
Ousmane.
What have I done?
I'm so sorry.
This is all my fault.
Don't say that, my white coat.
Are you OK?
I think so.
I'll be back.
I want to see Vittorio.
Tell him Zoubir is here.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS STORM BORDERS
AT CEUTA AND MELILLA IN MOROCCO
Despite efforts by security forces
from Spain and Morocco to intervene,
they failed to stop
the crowds attacking the guards.
This tragic scene left many dead,
some trapped in barbed wire
or attacked by stray dogs,
while others were injured,
both migrants
and security forces alike.
IMMIGRANTS STORM BORDERS
The endless flow
of illegal immigration
continues to shed blood
and shatter dreams
of those seeking to cross
to the other shore
in search of a better life.
That's Ounja.
This is an urgent call
to end this bloodshed.
Africa and Europe must
find a new strategy
and another way
so this dividing sea
stops being a graveyard of dreams
and becomes a space
of peace and hope.
Vittorio.
I knew this would end up in my hands.
7,000 euros.
7,000 euros?
That's robbery, Vittorio.
7,000.
But you said you'd buy it
for over 200,000 dirhams.
What's changed?
You need money
for your little adventure
with your African friends,
don't you?
I'm the only one who can help you
get into Spain.
Everything's ready.
We leave tomorrow by boat.
So? Are you going with Rubio?
Come on, move forward. Slowly.
You, get up.
Sit there.
You, come here.
Take this.
It's for everyone.
This woman is sick.
How will she cross the Mediterranean?
She's not sick. Just tired.
Tired?
She's sick.
Who will be responsible for her?
I will.
You.
You need to find someone
to take care of you.
Listen carefully,
if she dies,
she won't even make good fish food.
Come on, hurry up.
Quick. Ten minutes left.
Mom, it's time to go.
Quick.
Come on. Ten minutes left.
Mom.
-Come on.
-Mom, it's time to go.
Mom, we need to leave.
Mom, wake up.
Mom, don't do this to me. Dear mom.
Mom, please wake up.
Achata.
Mom.
Mom, wake up, don't do this.
This can't be! Mom!
Zoubir.
Help me carry her on my back.
Please help me.
Help me, please.
Mom.
Hurry up, move it!
Why isn't this woman moving?
What's wrong with her? Is she sick?
Let me through, please.
She's dead!
You're not bringing her on the boat
or I'll beat you up.
No, she's alive!
Let her go!
Don't let him get her on the boat
or he won't get on either.
-Let my mother go!
-Quick, hurry!
Hurry up!
She's alive.
They'll bury her
in a grave you can visit later.
Either get on the boat
or it leaves without you.
Come on, hurry up! Get in!
Move it, get in!
Come here, move! Move it! Quickly!
Watch out! Keep moving!
Mom!
Leave, Captain.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
My white coat.
My gift from heaven.
My beloved child.
Nothing will ever come between us,
not even death.
I'm sorry, Zoubida.
I can't bear this.
Mom.
Mom.
Mom.
Dear mom, forgive me.
Forgive me, dear mom.
Forgive me, mom.
Forgive me, Zoubida.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners,
woven with sick spiders.
I was but a sky of shivers and spite.
A floor where countless
termites sing.
I was but a weightless being,
an exiled body
swollen with rotten pride.
I was but an incoherent shell,
a senseless sin,
a deceptive virtue,
until the day you came.
AFRICA BLANCA
A FILM BY AZLARABE ALAOUI
HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE
SUFFER FROM ALBINISM.
ACCORDING TO UN DATA, SINCE 2006,
NEARLY 800 ATTACKS
ON THESE VULNERABLE PEOPLE
WERE REPORTED
IN 28 AFRICAN COUNTRIES.
PEOPLE WITH ALBINISM ARE OFTEN KILLED
AFTER BEING MUTILATED
AND THEIR BLOOD
IS USED IN WITCHCRAFT.
EVEN AFTER DEATH,
THEIR GRAVES ARE DESECRATED
TO RECOVER THEIR BODIES.
THEIR MUTILATED BODIES
ARE SOLD FOR RITUALS,
BECOMING COMMODITIES:
EACH LIMB SELLS FOR
600 TO 2,000 EUROS,
AND A WHOLE BODY
CAN FETCH 70,000 EUROS.
THE BLOOD KEEPS FLOWING...
INDIFFERENCE IS THE WORST EVIL.
AFRICA BLANCA
A FILM BY AZLARABE ALAOUI
I knew you went there.
What were you looking for?
What you did was dangerous.
You're risking your life.
What if they see you?
Dear God.
I can't bear to think they'd see you.
Mom, I was far away,
not even in the village.
What do you mean?
You were very close to the village.
Do you realize how dangerous it is?
We left the village
because of those sorcerers,
to protect you from them.
When will you understand that?
My white skin.
You know if these people see you,
they could hurt you.
And I couldn't bear that.
I couldn't bear
if anything happened to you.
Try to understand.
Mom, it's hot.
Sweetie, it's just warm.
It's the same
as your body temperature.
Look, feel it.
Beautiful white coat.
-Aunt Achata.
-Who's there?
Me, Mamankita.
-Hello, Aunt Achata.
-Hello, Mamankita.
Imam Abdallah wants you
to come to the mosque right away.
The imam wants to see me?
What's wrong?
-I don't know.
-Is it serious?
I don't know.
Alright, I'll go now.
Sister Achata, I have bad news.
Do you know Issa?
He's a blacksmith
from the Tonki tribe.
Three men from another tribe
visited him
asking him to forge swords
with monkey tails.
Sorcerers' swords.
Ousmane is like a son to me,
I don't want him
to meet his father's fate.
Brother,
what do you suggest?
Issa knows the way
to the albino shelter in Tanzania.
He'll take Ousmane there.
He'll be safe.
But the albino shelter
is like a prison, brother.
We have no choice, sister.
No, I won't leave my mother.
Impossible. No one will separate us.
There's another way. Go to France.
What?
France.
My son Amadou
has lived there for 7 years.
I hear from him regularly.
He's settled
and works there. He'll help you.
Don't worry, madam,
I know someone
who can help you get to
Morocco.
Your husband was a pious man,
he has disciples in Fez.
They'll be glad to help you.
You can go on pilgrimage.
I think it's the right decision.
Are you OK?
Don't worry,
everything will be fine, God willing.
These sorcerers
hunt us in life
and in death,
but we won't let them.
You know what we'll do?
We'll hide your father's grave
so the sorcerers can never find it.
Help me
pull the carpet over the grave.
That's good.
I'll adjust it here.
We'll meet again if all goes well.
If not, goodbye.
Search the house.
Listen, Mom,
if you want to stay, that's fine,
I'll go to Tanzania.
Darling, you want to live without me?
You haven't spent a single day
without me since birth.
But Mom, you'll suffer because of me.
I will suffer,
but it's nothing compared to the pain
of living without you.
You're my white coat.
You know that.
Don't worry, Mom.
I'll always be by your side.
Thank you, sweetheart.
-Mom.
-Please,
don't hurt him.
Please, don't hurt him.
Let me have him.
Leave me alone, I've done nothing.
You killed our master!
Cursed sorcerers,
stay away from them.
Mom.
Drop your weapons.
Drop your weapons now!
Cursed sorcerers.
Get out!
-Mom.
-Yes?
This journey will be dangerous.
Don't worry.
Sure,
the sun will burn your skin a bit,
but it'll be
like a short walk for us.
It won't be just a walk.
You'll have to take risks.
Give me the binoculars.
You may run into bandits.
My friend, danger is everywhere.
Mom,
like I told you,
this journey is too risky for us.
No.
Don't you trust me?
-Yes.
-Well then.
You must think carefully
before taking this trip.
Don't be afraid.
Everything will be fine.
God willing.
Mother Achata,
you must go to Morocco on foot
with this group.
What's your decision?
We have no choice.
Here's your money.
Have a safe journey,
Achata and Ousmane.
Thank you Issa, for everything.
Let's go.
No.
Don't tell me this ghost
is traveling with us.
What did he do to you?
He'll bring us bad luck.
Listen carefully,
I'm in charge of this journey.
It's my responsibility,
and no one tells me what to do.
But we all know
the ghost brings misfortune.
He'll curse our journey.
Ghost or not, I don't care.
I won't lose money
over superstitions.
A ghost is bad luck.
Want them to stay?
Pay for their seats.
I'm not the only one
who believes this.
Others do too.
Then you can all chip in.
Let's go.
Look,
they're human beings, just like you.
Look, they're young.
They're your age.
Look at that one,
he looks like the neighbor's son.
Don't you think?
Darling,
don't be afraid, I'm here.
Let's go.
Come on. Let's go.
You're making us late.
I was stupid to agree to take you.
Can't you see
the sun is burning my son's skin?
I don't care about your son.
Let's go.
Hello.
Who am I taking?
Everyone here.
Here's your money.
It's time to leave.
We're leaving.
Let's go.
We're leaving.
Hurry up. Help the women.
Cursed ghost, you won't come with us.
You won't come with us.
Leave me alone.
Cursed ghost.
Leave my son alone.
Leave me be.
You won't come with us.
Mom.
My son. Help.
Leave my son alone.
Ousmane.
Ousmane. Let me go.
Let him go.
Let him go.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Let's go.
Ousmane.
In the name of God, the Merciful.
Say: "I seek refuge
with the Lord of dawn."
In the name of God,
the Most Merciful.
Rest. Rest.
Mom. Mom.
Don't be afraid. Don't be afraid.
She's alive.
Sleep. Sleep, and rest.
Dear Ghalia, bring the tea set.
Alright.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
My white skin,
my gift from heaven,
my beloved child,
know that nothing can tear us apart,
not even death.
Do you hear me?
Why don't you feed the little girl?
It's her birthday.
My daughter Acha is sick.
We haven't found a cure.
Her health gets worse each day.
I was deeply moved
by what happened to you.
I have only this tent
and these camels.
And I'll never leave them behind
to run away.
This is our fate.
No matter how we try to hide,
we're destined to escape.
Ousmane. Ousmane, the tea.
Thank you.
Ma'am.
Thanks.
What will you do now?
I've been thinking all week.
We must go to the Zawiya of Fez.
In that case,
tomorrow, God willing, I'll take you
to the nearest road.
Maybe we'll find
a truck or car to drive you.
Ghalia, some tea?
With pleasure.
Oh Lord, oh Lord.
Peace be with you.
What happened...
I hope you're alright.
Listen, cousin...
You see this little girl.
I've tried every remedy for her.
but nothing worked.
Sheikh Sidi Moubarak
told me to bring some hair
like your albino son's,
to make incense...
Maybe God will heal her.
Please, give me some hair.
The hair...
What is it?
Here are clothes.
You may need them for the road.
Thank you so much,
I really need them.
I lost all my things in the desert.
You're welcome.
Aichata.
Let's go. The camels are ready.
It's a long journey.
Everything's ready?
Yes. Let's go.
Alright.
Let me help you.
May God protect you.
In God's name, His will be done.
There is no power
nor might except in God,
the Most High, Most Great.
In God's name, my daughter...
I made incense with Ousmane's hair,
son of Sheikh Sidi Mamadou.
May God heal and protect you.
Lord, heal my daughter.
Lord, protect her.
Hope you're well.
Don't worry about me.
It'll be OK.
Ousmane,
your mother told me you sing.
Is it true you can sing?
No. No, I don't sing.
But I write poetry.
I see. Recite us a poem, then.
Alright.
Mom, hand me the notebook.
Thanks.
I was but pale sunlight's waste,
filled with dark corners,
woven with sick spiders.
I was just a sky of
shivers and grudge.
A floor
where countless termites sing.
I was but a weightless being,
an exiled body
swollen with rotten pride.
I was just an incoherent shell,
a senseless sin,
a deceptive virtue,
until the day you came
with your seeds,
telling me the world finally accepted
to grant happiness to suffering,
abundance to hunger,
peace to war.
I have become prophecy again,
a giant star
lit in every corner of the sky.
You know it.
Only love will force me to LIVE.
I have no place in a death
I no longer wish to watch.
Ousmane,
Achata...
Do you see what I see?
A car... a car!
Is your car stuck in the sand?
-A car stuck?
-Yes.
Peace be with you!
And with you.
My name is Khalil.
And I'm Vittorio.
Hello, sir.
Vittorio.
What's that?
This is Zoubir.
Where are you going?
They're my guests.
I'm looking for someone
to take them to Fez.
What a coincidence.
We're going to Fez.
Zoubir is from there. I have an idea.
Help us get the car out of the sand,
and I'll take your friends to Fez.
He looks a lot like Ousmane.
All albinos look alike.
Sorry, I didn't mean that.
When he learned
I was pregnant with Ousmane,
he came to live with us,
to protect him.
Protect him from whom?
It's a long story.
It's beautiful.
Indeed.
It belonged to my late husband.
It looks very old.
You're right.
He gave it to me
to pass on to Ousmane
once he memorizes the Quran.
But my son is lazy.
He doesn't know the whole Quran yet.
The car needs to cool down
for at least five minutes.
OK.
We've passed it down
from generation to generation
since Islam came to Senegal.
We've had this dagger
for 1,000 years.
A thousand years?
-I'll buy it.
-No.
It's not for sale, sir.
It's an heirloom, I can't sell it.
200,000 dirhams.
Please stop insisting,
I won't sell it.
Please give it back to me.
Give it back, sir.
Let's go.
Zoubir.
Finally, we made it.
Look over there, son,
that's where the Zawiya is.
Fez is an ancient city.
Well,
I need to get going.
You know where to find me in Tangier.
Let's go.
We'll drop you off near the Zawiya.
God is alive...
God is alive...
How is Sheikh Mamadou?
Sadly, he passed away.
My condolences, madam.
May his soul rest in peace.
Sheikh Mamadou was a
scholar at the Zawiya.
He was a wonderful man.
It's truly beautiful.
Just as your father described it.
Welcome, welcome.
I welcome the family of my brother
and dear friend, Sheikh Mamadou.
How was your journey?
The journey went well.
Just the ravages of time,
high blood pressure
and illness.
But...
I'm proud and honored to be here.
Coming to the Zawiya,
it's a pilgrimage for me.
A dream finally coming true.
Thank God.
Your father was a virtuous sheikh.
I was sad when he left Fez.
The same suffering,
same story, same ordeal.
Come, my son Ousmane, follow me.
Achata. Achata.
Come.
This wing is for men only.
But I can't be separated from my son.
Mom, what's wrong?
She won't let us stay together.
What? No, I can't leave my mom.
It's impossible. There's a men's wing
and one for women.
Here in the Zawiya,
men and women can't live together.
It's to respect everyone's privacy.
What privacy, madam?
What could an old woman
like me have to hide from men?
I have nothing to hide
from women either.
Mom, let's go.
-Ousmane.
-Mom.
Ousmane, listen to me.
We have no choice right now.
Yes we do, we can leave the Zawiya.
Where would we go, son?
We have no money, no work.
We don't even have papers.
Please.
Just give me time to get enough money
to reach Tangier.
But mom.
Listen to me, darling,
my white one.
I know separation is hard,
but we must accept it.
At least we're safe here.
That's all that matters.
Please.
Just give me a few months
to save enough money
so we can go to Europe.
OK?
Ousmane...
Come here, son...
You'll get used to this life.
Peace be with you.
Peace and God's mercy be upon you.
Where are you from?
Senegal.
Welcome.
Thanks.
Where are you from?
I'm from Mali.
Can I use this closet?
Yes, of course.
How's life here?
Women live in one wing,
men in another.
Surprise!
Here's the Moroccan tajine.
Smells good, Zoubir.
Thank you.
Want to try some?
Living outside the Zawiya
will be hard for you.
I understand, Zoubir.
But we're tired of living apart.
What will you do
when Ousmane marries?
Will you cohabit then?
Of course.
Of course.
What if his wife disagrees?
She won't have a choice.
The woman who
will separate me from my son
hasn't been born yet.
Isn't that right, my white coat?
This is my favorite spot.
Welcome to my kingdom.
-Zoubir?
-Yes?
You know why we're going to Europe,
but you never told us
why you want to leave.
I have no home here, no ties,
no family, no friends.
Goodbye. See you next time.
-Zoubir, where are you going?
-To the tannery.
Mom, I'm going with her.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
What is it? Were you sleeping?
Give me my joint.
Ever smoke before?
No.
That's why you got so high.
It's hashish,
a drug that works like alcohol.
You forget and stop thinking.
I don't understand you.
Why?
We've been together two months,
I know nothing about you.
I know nothing about your past.
To be honest,
nothing important
happened in my past.
I lived alone with my mother,
alone in a shack.
My life was like a prison.
I wrote poetry.
You won't make a living
from poetry, Ousmane.
Why don't you understand me?
You won't get mad?
No.
I don't understand
why you dress like this,
and why you have a man's name.
My name is Zoubida.
Zoubida.
And these are street
clothes, Ousmane.
The street
is like a jungle surrounded by walls.
A girl like me,
trying to make a living,
can't be prey.
I dress like a hunter.
Prey?
What do you mean by "prey?"
Prey, my friend, prey.
When a lion attacks me, I'm the prey.
Understand?
Yes.
The prey.
What's that? A gift?
If you want.
Thank you.
I'll leave you.
Though days may plot against you,
no earth or sky will shelter you.
No slum
or skyscraper will take you in.
Only death calls to me.
Sir... sir...
No land or sky to protect you.
No slum,
no skyscraper will shelter you.
Only death calls me.
Your fate
is already laid out, Ousmane.
Your name is Ousmane, right?
Yes, Ousmane.
What's done is done.
Leave it behind.
Don't look back.
Ousmane, keep going.
Keep moving.
Never look...
never look behind you.
Never.
Watch your heads.
He survived miraculously.
Shit.
This is all my fault.
Sweetheart,
don't blame yourself,
you did nothing wrong.
We need to think about our next move.
I can't let you stay here,
this isn't my place.
Yes,
we need to leave quickly.
I have another solution.
We can go to Europe without money.
But it's dangerous,
very dangerous.
Have you ever heard of...
Boza?
Boza?
Yes, Boza.
Where are you going?
We're here.
You, the albino! Are you Zoubir?
No, it's not me, it's her.
I'm Zoubir.
Amadou said
there were three of you.
And there are three of us.
With the old woman?
What old woman?
Your mother is the old woman.
Look at your insolence.
Never seen
an old woman travel before?
Brute.
This way, follow me.
We're here.
What's going on?
You again, ghost?
You know him?
Yes, he was with us in the desert.
This ghost followed us from Senegal.
He brought us bad luck.
Because of him, we had
many problems in the desert.
Shut up. Move it.
Keep moving.
There's surveillance here.
All the red markers are guards.
There are four guard posts.
Two guards
at each post, eight in all.
There's a customs officer here.
Two more guards over there.
The yellow markers, these three,
are guard dogs.
They're here for us.
And two guards here too.
And two more over here.
Two plus two equals four.
Like the four on the other side,
they're here for security.
Every six hours,
the guards change posts.
There are four guard posts.
I've been here two years.
This one here...
Others come and go.
He patrols.
The president's been here longest.
He's been here 5 years.
He's tried to cross 11 times.
-Eleven times?
-Yes, 11 times.
Look at his face,
you'll see the scars.
We can't make mistakes.
But he keeps trying.
That's why this camp exists,
to bring Africans together.
He's in charge here.
-Is he the president?
-Yes.
Customs officers are downstairs.
The guards here move...
No way.
Alright.
Aunt Achata.
Ousmane.
This can't be.
Amadou?
What are you doing here?
It's a small world.
Your father
helped us escape to this place.
May God protect him.
My father always
loved helping people.
It's in his nature.
But my uncle, Imam Abdallah,
said you lived in France
and sent him letters from there.
Letters?
A friend sent them
from France.
Why do you want to go to France?
To become president of France.
Really?
What do you think?
Wasn't Obama president of the US?
His father
was an African immigrant, right?
Then I can become
president of France.
I'm sorry.
Is it funny, boy?
That's a girl, nephew.
I apologize.
It's OK.
Nephew,
you're already president here.
-Aunt Achata.
-Yes?
You and Zoubir, go over there,
to the tent.
Ousmane, come.
You, go to your tent.
You want to separate us too?
I can't sleep without my son.
Don't worry, Mom, I can sleep alone.
Since when do you sleep alone?
Trust me.
Good night.
Good night, Zoubida.
Thank you, president.
You're welcome.
I'm going to bed too. Good night.
What's wrong, Aunt Achata?
I'll get some water.
Auntie Achata.
Auntie Achata.
We're going to the fence.
It's dangerous there.
We'll have to climb fences.
Try to understand.
Don't worry, I told you.
No, I can't accept that,
not with your fragile health.
Listen to me, Aunt Achata,
let Ousmane go.
Once he's in Europe,
he'll help you migrate
in better conditions.
It's better.
Never without my son.
Everyone gather round.
Wake up.
Assembly time.
Everyone gather round.
Ousmane, wake up.
We need to gather in the yard.
Wake up, Ousmane.
Everyone, wake up.
Everyone, wake up. Gather round.
-What's going on?
-They're calling us.
Where's my mother?
Over there. Come.
Everyone gather round.
Hurry up.
Dear people,
I have an urgent matter to share.
We've received information that
the police will raid our camp
tomorrow night.
Your determination and courage
will help us
make it to the other side.
Each of you must
get ready,
because tomorrow morning,
we must leave before they arrive.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
We are few in numbers,
but I see ambition in your eyes.
You have courage and dreams.
We will make it to the other side.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
Go to your tents and get ready
for the Boza.
Boza.
Come on.
Come here,
watch carefully. Like this.
Come.
Come here, look.
Like this.
Go, keep practicing.
Speed is crucial.
Get down.
Is that how you want to pass?
Give me that. Move. Very weak.
Ousmane, take this.
You have five minutes.
Quick.
Come on, Ousmane.
Hurry.
War is coming, hurry.
Good.
Watch out for guard dogs.
Come on.
Careful. Good.
Well done, champ. You're a tiger.
Bravo.
Come on, Ousmane.
Come on, let out your anger.
My people,
I believe in you.
I can see you're all ready.
Tomorrow, we'll attack the Boza.
You are warriors,
and I trust you.
I know your bravery.
Be like boxers.
Strike on both sides.
The enemy comes with sticks.
Hit left, hit right.
Don't give your opponent time
to catch their breath.
Move and strike.
You need agility and strength,
speed and efficiency.
Be like tigers.
Act as though you were tigers.
Strike like this.
Hard and fast, like this.
-Got it?
-Yes.
-Is that clear?
-Yes.
Smother him.
That's the way.
Dodge the blows.
Dodge the baton strikes.
Tomorrow, we must
Boza.
Boza.
Come on.
Time to go.
Let's go.
It's time to leave.
Have you seen Ousmane?
No.
This can't be. Ousmane?
Have you seen Ousmane?
-I looked everywhere.
-Check the other side.
-Alright.
-Ousmane.
This can't be. My son.
Have you seen my son?
Ousmane. My son.
General, let's go.
Let's go.
Have you seen him?
No. Where is he?
I don't know.
Let's go.
I can't leave without my son.
I'm sorry.
Auntie, I'm sorry.
Zoubir. My son.
We'll find him.
We must find him.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
There are tracks here.
-Ousmane.
-Ousmane. My son.
My God.
My son.
Are you OK?
My God.
Ousmane, are you OK?
Look at me, son.
Ousmane.
What have I done?
I'm so sorry.
This is all my fault.
Don't say that, my white coat.
Are you OK?
I think so.
I'll be back.
I want to see Vittorio.
Tell him Zoubir is here.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS STORM BORDERS
AT CEUTA AND MELILLA IN MOROCCO
Despite efforts by security forces
from Spain and Morocco to intervene,
they failed to stop
the crowds attacking the guards.
This tragic scene left many dead,
some trapped in barbed wire
or attacked by stray dogs,
while others were injured,
both migrants
and security forces alike.
IMMIGRANTS STORM BORDERS
The endless flow
of illegal immigration
continues to shed blood
and shatter dreams
of those seeking to cross
to the other shore
in search of a better life.
That's Ounja.
This is an urgent call
to end this bloodshed.
Africa and Europe must
find a new strategy
and another way
so this dividing sea
stops being a graveyard of dreams
and becomes a space
of peace and hope.
Vittorio.
I knew this would end up in my hands.
7,000 euros.
7,000 euros?
That's robbery, Vittorio.
7,000.
But you said you'd buy it
for over 200,000 dirhams.
What's changed?
You need money
for your little adventure
with your African friends,
don't you?
I'm the only one who can help you
get into Spain.
Everything's ready.
We leave tomorrow by boat.
So? Are you going with Rubio?
Come on, move forward. Slowly.
You, get up.
Sit there.
You, come here.
Take this.
It's for everyone.
This woman is sick.
How will she cross the Mediterranean?
She's not sick. Just tired.
Tired?
She's sick.
Who will be responsible for her?
I will.
You.
You need to find someone
to take care of you.
Listen carefully,
if she dies,
she won't even make good fish food.
Come on, hurry up.
Quick. Ten minutes left.
Mom, it's time to go.
Quick.
Come on. Ten minutes left.
Mom.
-Come on.
-Mom, it's time to go.
Mom, we need to leave.
Mom, wake up.
Mom, don't do this to me. Dear mom.
Mom, please wake up.
Achata.
Mom.
Mom, wake up, don't do this.
This can't be! Mom!
Zoubir.
Help me carry her on my back.
Please help me.
Help me, please.
Mom.
Hurry up, move it!
Why isn't this woman moving?
What's wrong with her? Is she sick?
Let me through, please.
She's dead!
You're not bringing her on the boat
or I'll beat you up.
No, she's alive!
Let her go!
Don't let him get her on the boat
or he won't get on either.
-Let my mother go!
-Quick, hurry!
Hurry up!
She's alive.
They'll bury her
in a grave you can visit later.
Either get on the boat
or it leaves without you.
Come on, hurry up! Get in!
Move it, get in!
Come here, move! Move it! Quickly!
Watch out! Keep moving!
Mom!
Leave, Captain.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
Ousmane.
My white coat.
My gift from heaven.
My beloved child.
Nothing will ever come between us,
not even death.
I'm sorry, Zoubida.
I can't bear this.
Mom.
Mom.
Mom.
Dear mom, forgive me.
Forgive me, dear mom.
Forgive me, mom.
Forgive me, Zoubida.
I was but a pale sun's waste,
filled with dark corners,
woven with sick spiders.
I was but a sky of shivers and spite.
A floor where countless
termites sing.
I was but a weightless being,
an exiled body
swollen with rotten pride.
I was but an incoherent shell,
a senseless sin,
a deceptive virtue,
until the day you came.
AFRICA BLANCA
A FILM BY AZLARABE ALAOUI