The Belgium/France "documentary/fiction hybrid" Kinshasa Kids, set in the capital of Congo, is slated to screen at the upcoming New York Film Festival (September 28-October 14).

The 85-min film by Belgian director Marc-Henri Wajnberg (2001's Oscar Niemeyer, un architecte engage dans le siecle) follows several kids in the streets of Kinshasa, Congo who are disowned by their families who believe they're "witch children". In the film, also billed as a musical, these resilient youngsters form a band and pursue their dreams as musicians.

One of Kinshasa's stars, Rachel Mwanza, won the Best Actress Award at this year's Berlin Film Festival for her starring role in the acclaimed drama War Witch.  José Mawanda, Rachel Mwanza, Emmanuel Fakoko, Bebson "de la rue" Elemba, Gabi Bolenge, Gauthier Kiloko also star.

Here's the full synopsis:

Perhaps the most ebullient “musical” you’ll see this year, Marc-Henri Wajnberg’s singular documentary/fiction hybrid follows a group of street kids—kicked out of their homes for being “witch children”—in the titular Congolese capital. These ever-resourceful youngsters decide to form a band and team up with Bebson, an eccentric impresario and one-time recording star; he’s just one of many unforgettable adults who, whether as informal instructors, fellow musicians, or menacing pursuers, impact the lives of these indefatigable tykes. Completely devoid of sentimentality and condescension, Kinshasa Kids celebrates and honors both the resilience of its young protagonists and the chaotic city in which they live.

I'm loving the vibrant music and images from the trailer below. Looking forward to this film. Watch the trailer: