Film director Phil Cox’s documentary on Khartoum has a remarkable origin story – beginning with his own imprisonment. In 2017, following his work for Channel 4 News, he was incarcerated for three months in the Sudanese capital under the rule of President Omar al-Bashir.
Viewing his time in jail as an opportunity, Phil, a seasoned conflict news professional from Hackney, East London, began building connections. Upon his return in 2021, during a period of political transition, he sought out individuals he had encountered during his imprisonment.
With accolades from projects with Native Voice Films for platforms like Netflix and HBO, Phil secured funding from the British Council to produce a documentary titled Khartoum. Over eight months, he captured the daily lives of local residents in the capital, equipping them with donated mobile phones to document their experiences.
Collaborating with Sudanese filmmakers, the documentary focused on the lives of five individuals: plastic bottle collectors Wilson and Lokain, tea stall owner Khadmallah, civil servant Majdi, and resistance committee volunteer Jawad.
Unexpectedly, the filming process was disrupted by escalating tensions and violent clashes between armed forces and pro-Arab Rapid Support Forces in April 2023. Phil shifted from filmmaker to rescuer, navigating chaos to ensure the safety of his team.
Despite challenges, the documentary, described as a “poem of the city,” came to fruition. Following their escape from Sudan, the main characters, now refugees, were brought together in Nairobi to recreate memories from Khartoum and scenes from the conflict.
Notably, the film highlighted the experiences of Wilson and Lokain, shedding light on their struggles and resilience. Their testimonies and reenactments portrayed the harsh realities they faced, including witnessing violence and turmoil.
The documentary sheds light on the human stories behind the conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the resilience and bravery of everyday individuals. Phil’s dedication to sharing these narratives underscores the importance of raising awareness about Sudan’s ongoing challenges.