“Everyday, hundreds of people set off in boats from the coast of Libya bound for Europe in search of a better life. Escaping war, poverty and famine, the people hope they arrive in a land that can offer safety and better opportunities. Many die in the journey while others are rescued at sea and taken to ports in southern European countries where they begin their new lives as refugees. “Fata Morgana” explores the circumstances the refugees left behind and the situations they encounter on a new continent. The documentary also discusses the rise of right-wing, xenophobic politicians in Italy who are capitalizing off the crisis by scapegoating refugees for the country’s economic problems.

“Fata Morgana” is a documentary co-produced by local videographer Jen Lawhorne and Ebrima and Toumani, two African refugees trying to establish themselves in the Sicilian City of Messina. The documentary shifts the cinematic gaze over to the eyes of the refugees who filmed more than half of the documentary’s footage that explores the circumstances the refugees left behind and the situations they encounter on a new continent.”

Monday, July 23rd at 5:30 pm

Richmond Public Library