RASHID, L’ENFANT DE SINJAR
Director: Jasna Krajinovic
The opening sequence of “Rashid, the Boy from Sinjar” offers a perfect yet terrifying exposition: from an open car, the camera surveys the devastated streets of Sinjar. We then meet Rashid himself—a red-haired, slightly pimply teenager who, as his grandmother later reveals, looks noticeably different from everyone else in his community. This distinctive young man is the film’s namesake and central figure. He and his Yazidi family survived the IS genocide,-
Filmmaker Jasna Krajinovic follows Rashid’s attempts to rebuild his life in the ruined city as his family searches for safety and stability. The film subtly incorporates ever-present danger throughout and in one disturbing moment, we witness how past trauma continues to haunt the present.
There’s remarkable empathy for the subjects while respecting their boundaries. During difficult scenes, the camera maintains proximity without intrusion. Rather than manipulating emotions, the film relies on its protagonists’ authentic experiences. Many scenes brilliantly balance contrasting elements—everyday teenage moments juxtaposed against a backdrop of destruction, highlighting the normalized danger for this community.
As the story unfolds, difficult choices must be made about staying or leaving. Some family members choose one path, others another, each decision carrying its own weight of hope and uncertainty. Viewers are left wondering about the future that awaits these resilient individuals.
With stunning cinematography and nuanced storytelling, this fantastic, deeply moving film engages a wide audience while bringing renewed attention to a persecuted people’s plight. It leaves a lasting emotional impression and opens a space for viewers to reflect on parallels with other oppressed and threatened communities worldwide.
Jury: Florian Schewe (Producer, Film Five GmbH), Susanne Mertens (Editor, ZDF/ARTE Current Affairs), Julian Etienne (Film Officer at Doc Society)
Sponsored by the Petra Kelly Foundation, endowed with 5,000 euros. The nominees were films that focus on countries with unstable structures.
https://www.dokfest-muenchen.de/Award-winners-2025?lang=en
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