Beasts of No Nation
Child. Captive. Killer.
Overview
Based on the experiences of Agu, a child fighting in the civil war of an unnamed, fictional West African country. Follows Agu's journey as he's forced to join a group of soldiers. While he fears his commander and many of the men around him, his fledgling childhood has been brutally shattered by the war raging through his country, and he is at first torn between conflicting revulsion and fascination.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
The film draws heavily from the real-life experiences of child soldiers in various African conflicts. It sheds light on the complex political and social factors that contribute to the recruitment and exploitation of children in war, including poverty, instability, and the lure of power.
- Abraham Attah's debut performance as Agu is incredibly powerful and emotionally resonant, carrying the weight of the film with maturity beyond his years.
- The unflinching and realistic portrayal of child soldiery and the brutal realities of war in West Africa is both disturbing and important.
- Cary Joji Fukunaga's direction and cinematography are stunning, creating a visceral and immersive experience that captures the beauty and horror of the landscape.
- Idris Elba's portrayal of the Commandant is captivating, showcasing a charismatic yet deeply manipulative and morally corrupt figure.
Fun Facts
- Abraham Attah was discovered playing football on the street in Ghana and had no prior acting experience.
- The film was primarily shot on location in Ghana, adding to its authenticity and realism.