Last Modified: 07/04/2017
This documentary film explores the life of children around the world. Nidhi from India, Deegll from Mongolia, Tom from Uganda and Albert from Cuba take up a challenge: to live their dream and their passion by undertaking and a challenge that will change their lives forever. Together, they will live a unique day, a day where anything is possible.
‘My projects often stem from meeting people that spark a new idea,’ says Pascal Plisson, the director.
‘Six years ago, on a train in Russia, I met a ten-year-old boy. He came from a small village in Serbia and was seated next to me. I remember he was wearing an old ushanka cap and sweatpants. He had a violin on his knees and he was reading sheet music. I asked him, “What on Earth are you doing here all alone?” In fact, his parents and his village had collected money so he could audition in a major music school in Saint Petersburg. I found this undertaking incredible.’
‘It turns out that he convinced the jury and his whole life changed. He got a scholarship and became the pride and joy of his village. That is where I got the idea to make a film on passionate kids who will do anything to make a specific dream come true.’
‘They teach me humility and respect… They project a powerful sense of responsibility, of pushing one’s limits… They make me cry. They smile, even when they struggle,’ the director says.
‘They are authentic, dignified, and profoundly real. I have the greatest respect for them. They have so little, and yet they give so much back and never complain. Even if life is sometimes very hard. I like to be with them and share their lives. We should all be inspired by their intelligence.’
Characters:
Albert’s story brings two essential elements of Cuba to light: mandatory education and the power of athletics. Cuba’s great athletes are the pride of the country. In addition, school guarantees their future, no matter what direction their future athletic career may take.
Albert is 11 years old and lives alone with his divorced mother in a working-class neighbourhood in Havana, Cuba. He also lives part-time with his father, not far from there. His dream is to become the best boxer of his generation and represent his country in the Olympic Games.
Tom’s story reveals a common concern among many young Africans, one that is rarely spoken of: protecting their country’s natural resources and animals.
In Uganda, the Republic of Congo and Rwanda, where great apes still can be found, the younger generations are particularly involved in their preservation. This is the case for Tom, who feels personal responsibility and wants to protect this exceptional resource. He is studying to become a ranger, whose job is to protect a forest or natural park.
Deegii, 11 years old, lives with her parents and older brother in a small house in the outskirts of Ulan-Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Deegii is an incredibly determined young girl. Her ultimate goal is to become a professional contortionist.
Nidhi is 15 years old and lives in Benares, the capital of Bihar, a poor state in Northeast India. She lives with her parents, grandparents, three sisters and one brother, in an ancient temple shared with other modest families similar to her own.
Through Nidhi’s story, we gain insight into the way that young Indians view their education. They are passionate about their studies and prepare for exams like athletes for a competition. They are ready to make huge sacrifices in exchange for access to a good education.