Review of Ghosts of Cité Soleil (2006) by Tania G — 23 Mar 2008
"Ghosts of Cite Soleil" is a good documentary that could have been excellent, if its directors had chosen to dedicate some time to provide the spectator with a better context regarding what was happening in Haiti at the time this film was made, 2004. Without it, we "see" what was happening during Haiti's civil war through the eyes of two gang leaders who took active part in it, but we don't really understand what is going on, or why.
That doesn't mean this documentary is not worth watching, as it gives you an idea of what the lives of the people who lived in the slum of Cité Soleil were like, and the few choices they had in order to stay alive. Become a chimere (or "ghost") and be a part of the gang or die, kill or be killed. Furthermore, "Ghosts of Cite Soleil" prompts you to find out on your own what it doesn't give you, that is, at least a little more information regarding the historical, political, social and economic roots of the deep unrest we witness throughout the film.
On the whole, I can say that "Ghosts of Cite Soleil" portrays a shocking and violent reality in a crude but effective way. I recommend this documentary, but with some reservations: it is not perfect, and it is certainly not for the weak of heart.
This review of Ghosts of Cité Soleil (2006) was written by Tania G on 23 Mar 2008.
Ghosts of Cité Soleil has generally received positive reviews.
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