Goodbye Julia

Movie about a woman or two women.

Within the canvas of Sudan's societal divide between Arab-dominated North and black Sudanese, this film encapsulates the intricacies of conflict, rooted in racism, religion, and politics. It revolves around the struggles faced by one or two women, shedding light on poverty, parenting challenges, and the lack of intimacy in marriage. These issues are interwoven with the repercussions of a couple of well-intentioned lies.

Throughout the narrative, the women in this tale are not truly comprehended by the men who claim to love them. Even the children fail to grasp their emotional plight, evoking a sense of helplessness among the audience.

The narrative delves deep into the human condition, inviting reflection on pressing global issues often overlooked by mainstream media. Set against the backdrop of 2005 and 2010, the film meticulously crafts its era, portraying an authentic representation of culture, language, and technology. The art direction, including vehicles, gadgets, fashion, and language subtitled for the audience, is commendable.

Having watched it at IFFK 2023, the International Film Festival of Kerala, this movie is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of humanity in the face of societal turmoil.

I watched this movie in International Film festival in Kerala, India .

Set in the backdrop of undivided Sudan where Elite arab and Working class Local sudan people live together in Khartom. A Southern Sudan man is killed by an Arab because of a misunderstanding . Police remove his id card from the body and term it as "dead in rio" to save the Arab man. But his wife bribe the police man and find the details of the Southern man's wife and kid and bring them to her house . Then onwards it a saga of human emotions flow cutting the black and white divide. All charectors including the kid are well crafted . First sudani film I saw. Perfect story and direction + Good acting by all charector. The film also shows the plight of womanhood in Arab families.

This movie features a simple premise that manages to capture the nuance of a very complex reality. It is always difficult for movies to navigate the politics and dynamics of expressing civil war and secession struggles, made usually harder by the different layers of conflict and diplomatic dimensions. I think the movie escapes this reductionism by constantly playing devil's advocate and showing the other side of whatever question is being posed. From a story telling perspective, this movie was able to hold my attention quite firmly given how much of a slow burn drama it actually is. The very fast pace and action at the start of the movie hypes you up but you remain on edge even after the pace slows down, due to the dramatic tension.

The music really adds to the experience of the movie and is well integrated rather than feeling like an add-on. The actors are all brilliant and add a level of realism to the otherwise surreal drama going on. The cinematography and lighting add an element of nostalgia and a somber tone that creates an aged and warm aesthetic.

Overall, a great movie that is worth checking out.

This movie truly ranks among the finest I've seen. It unflinchingly explores the darker aspects of our world, unraveling the consequences of racism on seemingly regular people. Drawing parallels to the 2006 Oscar winner "Crash," it manages to maintain an air of mystery without revealing too much in the trailer.

The cinematography in this film is a visual feast, capturing the essence of each scene with striking precision. The acting performances are nothing short of superb, with the cast delivering powerful portrayals that breathe life into the characters. The dialogues are not just words; they are a captivating force that keeps you hooked, contributing significantly to the film's overall allure. The combination of excellent cinematography, stellar acting, and engaging dialogue elevates this movie to a cinematic masterpiece, deserving of its high rating.

I recommend approaching it with a fresh perspective, and I've given it a well-deserved 9-star rating for its engaging storytelling and exploration of a lesser-known territory.

A moving Sudanese drama, Goodbye Julia explores questions of guilt, atonement, and the intricacies of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of Khartoum's tumultuous conditions, this film invites viewers to explore the raw emotions and societal tensions that shaped Sudan's history.

A former northern Sudanese singer named Mona (Eiman Yousif) is haunted by guilt as she nears the end of her career in the years leading up to South Sudan's 2011 independence. As a means of atonement for her complicity in the demise of a man from the South, she employs the innocent Julia (played by Siran Riak), the man's widow, as her housekeeper. As she adapts to her new reality, Mona struggles with her past and the inability to admit her wrongdoing. Little does she know that the country's turmoil will find its way into her home, forcing her to confront her sins face-to-face.

The film's tone oscillates between melancholy and hope. It delves into the human psyche, exposing how lies and distrust can lead to calamities-even when intentions are honourable. Loveless marriages, class structures, and the longing for voice resonate universally. As viewers, we witness the harsh realities faced by Sudanese people during a time of immense social and political upheaval.

Eiman Yousif and Siran Riak breathe life into their roles. Their chemistry is palpable, portraying the tension between North and South Sudan. Yousif's haunting songs add depth, while Riak's portrayal of an unsuspecting widow is both heartbreaking and powerful.

Kordofani's directorial debut surprises with its artistry. The film's visual language captures the essence of Sudan-its vibrant colours, dusty streets, and sun-soaked landscapes. Pierre de Villiers' cinematography immerses us in the characters' emotional turmoil. Mazin Hamid's score complements the narrative, evoking emotions that linger. The unexpected sound mixing heightens the impact. Heba Othman's editing maintains a steady pace, allowing the story to unfold organically.

The pacing of Goodbye Julia occasionally falters, and some scenes could be tighter. Yet, it's a soulful journey worth taking. For every Sudanese and anyone seeking a glimpse into a nation's heart, this movie is definitely worth watching.