Camp 72

Camp 72 is a gripping documentary that delves into the aftermath of the brutal Liberian Civil War. Released in 2017 and directed by Seema Mathur, the film significantly showcases the culture, history, and courage of Liberian people as they grapple with the trauma from their warfare-inflicted past. The film's content draws attention to the atrocities committed during the war, but yet focuses on reconciliation, healing, and progress made in the aftermath.

Camp 72, named after the refugee settlement that served as a cesspool of suffering during the war, is the underlying focus in this film. The documentary follows a Liberian activist and social worker, Agnes Fallah Kamara-Umunna as she ventures on a journey to find and reunite with survivors of the civil war who had once lived in the camp. She herself having been a refugee in Camp 72 gives the documentary a personal, close-to-the-heart touch. Through her voice, Camp 72's narrative takes form, linking the broader story of the Liberian Civil War to personal anecdotes and interactions.

Throughout the film, the audience gets an intimate view into the lives of several survivors who share their stories, bringing light to the raw realities of the war and the ongoing fight for justice. These stories provide a poignant insight into the human cost of conflict and open a window into the atrocities that occurred during the war.

But it doesn’t stop there. Seema Mathur’s focus doesn’t solely lie in the past. She also highlights the processes of reconciliation, healing, and attempts to rebuild communities after such immense trauma. The film unflinchingly addresses issues like war crimes prosecution, the importance of forgiveness for national healing, and the formidable struggles of women who were victimized during the war.

Gender-based violence gets unique attention in this film. The women survivors featured in the documentary candidly share their stories of sexual violence and slavery. They shed light on the gendered brutality of war crimes, the stigma associated with being victims of such atrocities and their personal battles with their past.

Simultaneously, the film doesn’t shy away from showing the resilience and strength of these survivors. Their determination to rebuild their lives and their courage in seeking justice are palpable and inspiring. Despite the scars visible in the socio-cultural fabric of Liberia, the people are committed to seeing their nation thrive, and their efforts to bring the perpetrators of these crimes to justice are commendable.

The documentary is realistic and it manages to respectfully handle its subject matter, creating a balanced perspective between the horrors experienced and the healing process. The filmmaking and cinematography are impressive, evocatively capturing the picturesque landscapes of Liberia contrasting with the grim realities of its past.

Camp 72 is more than a historical retelling of — it's a journey into understanding the human spirit, resilience, and the universal longing for justice and peace. The storytelling is extremely powerful, pulling at viewers' heartstrings while also leaving them with a sense of admiration for the survivors and a deep understanding of the Liberian Civil War.

Seema Mathur's Camp 72 is not just a documentary, it's a moving portrait of a people's journey from survival to healing and their unyielding faith in justice, truth, and reconciliation. While recounting stories of horrific war crimes, it also features stories of resilience, bravery, and a strong will for justice, creating a thought-provoking and impactful narrative making it an important film to watch for those wanting to understand the impact of war and its aftermath on the human spirit.