Sudanese Film ‘Cotton Queen’ Shines at Doha Festival Amid Crisis

UPDATE: The Doha Film Festival (DFF) has kicked off its inaugural edition, spotlighting the resilience of Sudanese cinema amid ongoing turmoil in the country. The festival features the acclaimed film ‘Cotton Queen’, directed by Suzannah Mirghani, which has just won the Golden Alexander for best feature film at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. This recognition comes at a time when Sudanese filmmakers are fighting for visibility against a backdrop of conflict and displacement.

As the festival commenced earlier today, Mirghani’s film is described as both a celebration and a crucial political statement. “There’s a sense of being seen,” Mirghani said, highlighting the emotional resonance for Sudanese audiences who have long felt overlooked. The film’s screening at DFF marks a pivotal moment for Sudanese culture, placing it firmly on the international stage.

The film follows teenage Nafisa (played by Mihad Murtada), navigating a turbulent landscape shaped by the introduction of genetically modified cotton seeds, a shocking reality that has overtaken Sudan’s traditional cotton industry. Mirghani emphasizes that cotton is not just an agricultural product but a symbol of Sudan’s heritage and women’s empowerment, noting that, “Even when others in the house had no income, the grandmother always had cash because she’s selling her thread.”

Filmed largely in Egypt due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, Mirghani’s crew comprises many young, non-professional actors who are also displaced. “Filmmaking became a source of stability,” she explained, as the production environment fostered a sense of community among cast and crew members. The emotional toll of their experiences is palpable, with some actors still processing their escape from Sudan.

The DFF is also featuring a music program, Sounds of Sudan, which complements the film’s narrative. The soundtrack, composed by Amine Bouhafa, incorporates traditional Sudanese instruments, adding depth to the storytelling. “Sudanese people are very lyrical,” Mirghani noted, emphasizing the cultural richness that permeates the film.

With international sales already secured by Totem Films, Mirghani aims for ‘Cotton Queen’ to reach Sudanese communities worldwide, especially those in refugee contexts. “To be connected through this film would be my greatest measure of success,” she stated, underscoring the need for representation and connection in these challenging times.

As DFF continues, the spotlight on Sudanese cinema is more than just an artistic showcase; it serves as a vital platform for cultural expression and resilience. Mirghani reflects on the importance of this recognition, stating, “We’ll watch the film together, on screen, for the first time. That’s a gift.”

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing impact of Sudanese cinema on the global stage.