Talking About Trees

Talking About Trees is a compelling and thought-provoking 2019 documentary that wistfully portrays the struggle for cinema culture in a country where political regime and societal norms threaten to suppress the liberating power of film. Directed by Suhaib Gasmelbari, this emotionally stirring Sudanese film features Manar Al Hilo, Suleiman Ibrahim and Altayeb Mahdi, who play themselves as retired film directors. Their shared passion for cinema fuel their attempts to resurrect an old outdoor movie theater, inviting the audience into a deeper narrative of dreams, nostalgia, and unyielding determination despite countless setbacks.

The movie draws its title from a saying, "Talking about trees is like discussing cinema", anchoring the narrative in a deep sense of perspective and interplay between witnessing and storytelling. Indeed, Talking About Trees effortlessly oscillates between personal testimonies, interviews, and stirring scenes of the protagonists’ everyday lives. Gasmelbari skillfully knits together an enchanting patchwork of cinema history, political commentary, and emotional insights into the distinct lives of the main characters.

Firstly, we come to know the four filmmakers through their reflections, narrating their personal journeys and shared love for cinema. They recall their days at the Russian film school where they met, express how they dealt with exile and isolation due to political disruptions, reminisce on their valley of work, and highlight their dreams for a rejuvenated Sudanese film industry. They are seen watching old tapes of classic Sudanese films, bringing out the compelling blend of nostalgia, passion, and sheer commitment, which indeed forms the crux of the movie.

In this journey to renovate a dilapidated cinema, Talking About Trees is more than just a tale of hopes and dreams. It presents a striking portrayal of societal attitudes towards cinema in Sudan, exploring how cultural constraints and conservative ideas view cinema as a threat rather than a source of entertainment or art. The directors face numerous bureaucratic, societal, and technological challenges, yet their perseverance and dedication persist. It's simultaneously a heartbreaking depiction of the obstacles they face and an inspirational story of their tirelessness in the face of such hardships.

That said, the movie never loses its sense of warmth and humor. In one touching scene, the quartet performs a hilarious, impromptu rendition of a scene from Sunset Boulevard for a group of intrigued but puzzled villagers. Such moments infuse levity, thus softening the harsh reality they face in their mission. Meanwhile, the stark beauty of the Sudanese landscape, captured brilliantly by Gasmelbari's intelligent use of cinematography, resonates with the metaphor of a struggling cinema in a parched land.

Moreover, Talking About Trees also delves intelligently into the politics and the impact of the authoritarian rule in Sudan. The filmmakers lament over the bad days of cinema, their struggle with censorship, and the suppression of artistic freedom. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of political despotism, rendering an eye-opening perspective on how it hinders creativity and personal expression.

The performances of Manar Al Hilo, Suleiman Ibrahim and Altayeb Mahdi are wonderfully natural. There's an inherent charm within their determination, a tangible bond between this band of brothers that inspires and resonates. Their performances infuse authenticity into the narrative, making Talking About Trees a poignant tribute to cinematic passion and resilience.

In essence, Talking About Trees is a poetic and touching piece that elegantly highlights cinema's universal charm against the backdrop of cycles of struggle and freedom. The film is subtly poignant, inviting audiences to explore the intricate, complex intersection of film, culture, and politics in Sudan. The beautiful atmospheric mood, moving soundtrack, and moments of poignant reflection, spiced up by doses of bittersweet humor, turns Talking About Trees into a universally connecting, deeply engaging movie about the fight for cultural freedom, and the resilient power of cinema.