Rising Up at Night
In this captivating documentary, director Nelson Makengo paints a vivid picture of life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's capital, where its residents navigate challenges ranging from power shortages to the aftermath of natural disasters.
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When darkness envelops the city of Kinshasa, the heartbeats of its 17 million souls echo with resilience and determination. In this captivating documentary, director Nelson Makengo paints a vivid picture of life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's capital, where residents navigate challenges ranging from power shortages to the aftermath of natural disasters. The storyline weaves together the lives of compelling characters like Kudi, who rallies his community to raise funds for a new power cable, and Davido, grappling with homelessness after the Congo River floods his home. Against the backdrop of Mount Mangengenge, Pastor Gédéon's sermons about hope and faith offer a poignant contrast to the city's struggles. Shot with remarkable intimacy and sensitivity, Rising Up at Night is filmed with a deep understanding of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s complex history and socio-economic challenges, inviting viewers to bear witness to the indomitable human spirit even in the face of unimaginable uncertainty. It's a film that resonates long after the credits roll, leaving audiences inspired and moved by the indomitable spirit of those who call Kinshasa home.
—Nancy Pappas
- Original Language Title: Tongo Saa
- Director: Nelson Makengo
- Country: Belgium, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Germany, Burkina Faso, Qatar
- Year: 2024
- Running Time: 96 min.
- Producer: Rosa Spaliviero, Dada Kahindo Siku
- Screenplay: Nelson Makengo
- Cinematographers: Nelson Makengo
- Editors: Inneke Van Waeyenberghe
- Music: Bao Sissoko, Wouter Vandenabeele
- Website: Official Film Website
- Filmography: Debut Feature Film
- Language: Lingala
- Has Subtitles: Yes
- International Sales: Square Eyes