Review of War Witch (2012) by Christopher Llewellyn R — 12 Apr 2013

Although I found "War Witch" powerful, and although it was a Best Foreign Film nominee, I can understand why folks might not want to sit though it. This is a brutal movie. Kids with guns, killing just about anything that move - including their own parents - do not make for happy viewing.

Still, I recommend the movie. "War Witch" tells the story of war-torn central Africa, where warlords force local children into their armies, brutalizing them so they can brutalize others. It focuses its narrative on one such child, Komona, thereby giving us a relatable character in the midst of the madness. Played by newcomer Rachel Mwanza, Komona suffers for the sins of others, finds a way to survive, and finds redemption in a way that offers hope for the future.

The film is violent, but the director, Canadian Kim Nguyen, show great restraint in his depictions of brutality. The most horrific acts happen off screen. Of greater challenge for most viewers, most likely, is Nguyen's elliptical narrative technique, which will frustrate those looking for clear plot points. In the middle of war, however, confusion reigns. Still, Nguyen adheres to a traditional three-act structure, and by the end of the film most of the narrative threads are tied up. Stick with it, and "War Witch" offers worthy rewards.