Here’s another Somali piracy film; this one, a feature documentary from director Thymaya Payne, titled Stolen Seas.
Claiming to offer a more comprehensive look at the phenomenon, the filmmakers say the doc “finally exposes the untold story behind Somali piracy.” And further, it’s said to be “an eye opening refutation of preconceived ideas on how or why piracy has become the world’s most frightening multi-million dollar growth industry.“
Being a strong proponent of films on the subject matter that go beyond the surface, and that are comprehensive, telling the full story (or stories), from all sides, I’m interested in this one; and I’ll now be able to check it out finally (as will you), since I’ve been informed that it’s now on iTunes!
Here’s a longer breakdown:
Welcome to piracy in the 21st century—where it’s anyone’s guess who comes out on top. It’s the story of 12 powerless men suffocating on a ship, and why their captors feel justified in their tyranny. It’s the story of a Somali translator who does the wrong thing for the right reason—trying to give his son a chance—and of all Somalia’s sons who will never have one. Stolen Seas is about the failure of international aid and the real for-profit solutions that could get these boys off boats. It’s another kind of story too: it’s a high seas adventure.
3+ years in the making, Stolen Seas includes exclusive interviews and unparalleled access to the just about every side of this story. The film throws the viewer, through audio recordings and found video, right into the middle of the real-life hostage negotiation of a Danish shipping vessel, the CEC Future – a situation that gives birth to an unlikely friendship.
The film had its world premiere at the Lorcarno Film Festival last summer, where it won the Boccalino d’Oro Independent Critics’ Award for Best Picture! Off to a good start!
It had a limited theatrical run in January, released to strong reviews, but I missed it then.
It’s now on iTunes, so give it a look if you’re curious.
Watch the trailer below:
