The Great Green Wall

The Great Green Wall is a 2019 film starring Inna Modja, Songhoy Blues, and Didier Awadi. This film is directed by Jared P. Scott and has been praised for its unique blend of adventure, exploration, and social commentary.

The Great Green Wall is described more than a film, rather an emotive and poignant journey of hope, resilience, and perseverance. It intricately blends music, culture, and environmentalism to portray a crucial initiative turned social movement in Africa that seeks to combat climate change and desertification. The film revolves around the Great Green Wall, an ambitious project of the African Union that's seeking to grow an 8000km long ‘wall’ of vegetation across the width of Africa, from Senegal to Djibouti. This wall is intended to halt the expansion of the Sahara Desert and improve the lives of millions of people by creating a more sustainable environment.

Inna Modja, a Malian-French singer, and songwriter also known as the 'voice of the Great Green Wall,' leads us on this journey. As the primary protagonist and, essentially, the viewer’s guide, Inna Modja takes us across the depth and breadth of Africa, meeting different people, learning about their lives, and understanding the ecological impact of the Great Green Wall initiative. We trail along with her musical journey through Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Niger, and Ethiopia.

Throughout the movie, Inna collaborates with renowned musicians from across the continent like Songhoy Blues, Didier Awadi, and Waje among others. This brings about an enigmatic blend of traditional African and contemporary music that gives a riveting touch to the narrative. The tracks weave into the dazzling landscapes and emotionally charged personal tales, giving life to every scene.

Every stop along the route brings us face to face with the stark realities and challenges of desertification - displacement, migration, conflict, and hunger. The film doesn't shy away from showing the struggle of the African communities, while also highlighting the hope and determination that's driving the revolutionary Great Green Wall project. Amidst the spellbinding music and serenading landscapes, it's a grim reminder of the ramifications of climate change that transcends borders and impacts us all.

The film presents a compelling case of grassroots activism and collective resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable environmental challenges. It offers a much-needed African perspective on the global issue of climate change and captures a continent coming together to create something extraordinary.

Zooming in from the macro issues plaguing the African continent, the film also takes its viewers on an intimate exploration of the human stories nested within the broader narrative. It's these stories that breathe life into the documentary. From farmers bearing the brunt of desertification to young migrants risking their lives for a better future in Europe, the film embodies the mantra that "environmental issues are human issues."

The film is beautifully shot. The scapes of Africa wonderfully captured in every frame give a sweeping, cinematic view of the vast landscapes. The film conveys the urgency of the environmental issues faced by the continent while keeping viewers engaged through a captivating assemblage of personal narratives, music, and inspiring themes of hope and resilience.

In conclusion, The Great Green Wall isn't just a film. It's a call to action, an anthology of hope, and an ode to the indomitable human spirit. It re-emphasizes the urgent need for global unity and concerted efforts in the face of ravaging climate change. Above all, it showcases how one idea can transform the world. This film is bound to leave the audience contemplating the current state of the planet and how individuals and communities can contribute to this global initiative for a better future.

The Great Green Wall serves as a timely reminder that every little step counts in the bigger picture of saving our planet. This masterpiece is recommended for anyone interested in environmental films, African culture, and the global issue of climate change. Be prepared to be moved, educated, and inspired all at once by this brilliant cinematic journey across Africa.