Hachi: Beasts of No Nation* (2015), directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, takes you deep into the heart of a war-torn African country where survival means confronting brutal violence, loss, and the collapse of humanity. This gripping war drama is both harrowing and thought-provoking, offering a raw portrayal of child soldiers and the devastating impact of war.

Plot Summary*: The story follows Agu (Abraham Attah), a young boy forced into a rebel army after his village is attacked. As Agu is swept up into a life of violence, he’s mentored by the ruthless, yet oddly compassionate, Commandant (Idris Elba). The film takes us through Agu’s harrowing journey of survival, shifting from innocence to a brutal understanding of the world around him.

Performance*: Abraham Attah’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary. His portrayal of Agu is deeply moving, capturing the vulnerability of a child trapped in a war with no way out. Idris Elba’s portrayal of the Commandant is chilling, a man who is both the villain and, in some strange way, a source of mentorship and protection for Agu. The complexity of their relationship is one of the film’s most compelling elements.

Themes*: *Beasts of No Nation* delves into themes of survival, innocence lost, and the dehumanizing effects of war. It starkly shows how conflict transforms people, especially children, into both victims and perpetrators. The film highlights the painful emotional and psychological scars left by war.

Cinematography*: The cinematography by Daniel Landin is hauntingly beautiful, capturing both the lush landscapes of Africa and the harsh realities of war. The contrast between the serene beauty of the countryside and the violence in the foreground adds to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.