The Rescue List

The Rescue List is a gripping documentary set in the backdrop of contemporary Ghana, that tells the harrowing yet inspiring tale of dedication, bravery, and an unfaltering quest for freedom. Released in 2020, the movie features the life and struggles of Manny Addo, Mary Addo and Solomon Kewku Addo, providing a visceral look into the heart-wrenching circumstances of the residents of Ghana's Volta region.

Directed by Alyssa Fedele and Zachary Fink, The Rescue List is a thought-provoking portrayal of child trafficking and slavery on Lake Volta, the largest man-made lake in the world. The film unfolds the shocking truth of how thousands of children are sold into a life of forced labor on fishing boats in this region. The narrative delves into the widespread social issue by focusing on the individual experiences of Manny, Mary and Solomon. Unapologetic and brutally honest, the film shines a light on how these children are stripped of their innocence and childhood, and forced into a brutal world that knows no kindness or compassion.

However, amidst the harsh reality of child slavery, there is a beacon of hope. This comes in the form of a daring mission by a local non-profit, Challenging Heights, and its activists, who launch a daring extraction to rescue children held under the clutches of slavery.

Manny and Solomon play key roles in their efforts. Having endured the same inhumanity themselves, they now stand as pillars of strength, extending a lifeline to those still trapped in the life that they managed to escape from.

The human tale unfolds as the rescue mission ventures deep into the treacherous reaches of Lake Volta, pushing the limits of bravery and determination. Screened against the rich cultural background of Ghana, the film captures the essence of the joyous African spirit, which although crushed under inhuman conditions, refuses to bow down, leading to incredibly emotional moments of bonding, understanding, and shared resilience.

Carrying a strong message of human rights and freedom, The Rescue List is a true testament to the raw and untamed courage of these innocent children who, despite their age, are locked in a battle for survival each day. The film dwells into their personal battles, their dreams, and their longing for a life beyond the shores of Lake Volta.

Mary's portrayal, albeit poignant, adds another dimension to the film. As a survivor and mother of Manny, she turns her despair into hope, projecting a fierce maternal instinct towards all lost children. Her struggle to reconcile with Manny’s uncertain future adds a tender and heart-wrenching layer to the narrative.

What adds depth to the documentary is the exploration of the sense of betrayal the children experience from their own family members, who often are the ones trading them into this life of hard labor. The emotional exploration of this complex relationships between the very people who are supposed to protect them forms an intense subplot.

In its essence, The Rescue List is more than just a documentary; it's a movement. An attempt to shine a spotlight on a tragic yet often overlooked issue, it aims to invoke both a sense of empathy and urgency. It reminds us that in spite of the darkness and the prevailing odds, hope still persists.

The Rescue List is a brutal wakeup call to a global issue. It thoughtfully balances its intense and, at times, overwhelming subject matter with moments of joy, release, and redemption. This film inspires and encourages action, and truly engrosses us in the beautiful resilience of the human spirit, making it a must-see for any social justice advocate or simply anyone with an empathetic heart.

In a nutshell, The Rescue List is a stark, thought-provoking documentary offering an intimate window into the world of child exploitation in Ghana, but more importantly, it's a beautiful narrative of rescue, rehabilitation, and resilience.