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Deep Dive: Fambul Tok (2011)

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Fambul Tok
Fambul Tok is a documentary that focuses on reconciliation in Sierra Leone after the civil war that lasted from 1991 to 2002. Directed by Sara Terry, the film follows the efforts of the organization Fambul Tok, founded by John Caulker, which facilitates community discussions known as 'fambul tok' or 'family talk.' These gatherings allow community members to confront past atrocities and seek forgiveness, as seen in the stories of individuals like Esther and Sahr, who confront their perpetrators in a village bonfire setting. The film also includes an epilogue where a major perpetrator, Savage, returns to Foendor to seek forgiveness. The village chief's initial hesitance reflects the complexities of reconciliation, but ultimately, the community's will prevails. The film runs for 81 minutes and premiered at the South by Southwest film festival in 2011, showcasing the human capacity for forgiveness amidst the scars of war.

Why Watch

  • •Meet John Caulker, founder of Fambul Tok.
  • •See Esther confront her uncle about her rape.
  • •Find out how communities forgive past atrocities.

Did You Know

•The Sierra Leone Civil War resulted in at least 70,000 deaths.
•Fambul Tok translates to 'family talk' in the Krio language.
•The film premiered at the South by Southwest film festival in 2011.
•Esther was raped at age 12 by fifteen men, including her uncle.

Perfect For

Conflict resolutionSierra Leone historyHuman rights advocacy