SILVER

In Egyptian American filmmaker Sherief Elkatsha's (CAIRO DRIVE) music-filled documentary, a group of musicians from countries along the Nile River band together across cultures, languages and musical traditions to raise awareness about Africa's growing water issues. Eleven countries in Africa share this "thin blue vein of geographical fate," and their 450 million inhabitants are projected to double in the next 25 years, increasing the pressure on an already fragile ecosystem. Elkatsha follows 12 African musicians from seven of these countries as they come together to highlight the water conflict along the river they share. As they leave their homes in Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Burundi and Uganda to embark on a 100-day tour of the United States, the film captures the challenges of collaboration. Despite their vast cultural differences, musical styles and competing egos, the artists must find ways to create and remain united in their cause. (Note adapted from Katsha Films.) Official Selection, 2022 Cairo International Film Festival. DIR/SCR/PROD Sherief Elkatsha; PROD Christopher McElroen. Egypt/U.S., 2022, color, 99 min. In English, Arabic, Amharic and Swahili with English subtitles. NOT RATED

No AFI Member passes accepted.