Review of The Swimmers (2022) by Tarekali — 02 Jan 2023

A remarkable movie that documents the often ignored plight of migrants fleeing war zones and failed states. This is a true story of 2 sisters and their indomitable will to survive and thrive, for themselves, their dreams and their families.

The horrors of the land and sea passage, at the mercy of predatory smugglers and coyotes, are accurately depicted here. There is a humanizing element, but a well-balanced portrayal of both sides of the coin, where these fleeing persons are treated with the milk of human kindness and the bitterness of inhuman cruelty.

The director keeps the story real, light-hearted and fun, avoiding depicting this difficult passage as some romantic road trip. Rather the harsh realities of migrants are shown effectively, especially the tremendous risks they take crossing borders.

What pushes people to such desperation? Those living comfortable lives cannot really declare migrants as parasites until they themselves fall on hard times, often through no fault of their own. It is equally rewarding to follow the real-world progress of Yusra Mardini as she continues to pursue her family's passion for swimming, and Sara Mardini who seemed scarred by her crossing of the deadly ocean on a sinking raft.

I will eagerly follow the outcome of both their trials in life.