2. Making of Under the Water
While reading, play this song – it will help you breathe in a bit of the Kenyan atmosphere.
Korogocho, the poorest slum in the world.
The experience in Africa was one of the most precious memory I bring inside my heart. The slum of Korogocho, where the story take place, is one of the poorest and most polluted area in the world. The Dandora landfill is located exactly on it, making the air so difficult to breath (if we can still talk about air). The life expectation there is 30 years old, in the brightest case. Slums are also known as dangerous places, where even young kids are can be raped or kidnapped. As if all of this isn’t enough, our main character Barack is forced on a wheel chair.
“My favorite meal is ugali”
The Kenyan cuisine can be tasty if you’re located in remote villages or along the seaside. However, in a slum, two of the most common foods are lentils, which everyone knows, and ugali. What is this ‘ugali’?
If water is the tasteless drink, ugali is a tasteless food. It looks like polenta, and the only thing it does is fill your stomach. I was very surprised when one kid told me it was his favorite food, probably because, like most kids, he just didn’t like vegetables and it was the only alternative.
How was making a short movie in this setting?
Filming in this place brought a mix of excitement and challenges. It was tough because we had expensive equipment, and being the only white people, we stood out and even drew the attention of the local mafia, who posed a threat. However, we managed to find a way to escape potential danger.
Despite these challenges, it was also a lot of fun. The local kids treated me like a brother, and we formed a deep bond. We genuinely cared for each other, and our time together was filled with happiness.
I really wished I could have stayed longer in this place to experience even more and connect further with the community.
Friends across miles: School exchange
Before coming to Korogocho I collaborated with schools in central Italy to collect school supplies for the local children. This effort touched the hearts of both Italian and Kenyan kids, creating a strong bond.
The exchange project brought these kids together, and they loved it. Italian students wrote heartfelt letters to their Kenyan peers, and the Kenyan children responded with gratitude and enthusiasm. This initiative not only provided essential supplies but also strengthened the friendship and understanding between the two groups. It showcased the beauty of international empathy and cross-cultural connections.
The Last Chapter: Restoring Barack’s Ability to Walk
Upon completing the short film, I shared it with the schools, and it left a lasting impression on the students. The story moved many of them to want to contribute to helping Barack regain his ability to walk. With the support of these compassionate young hearts, we were able to fund Barack’s therapies and treatments.
This experience remains a source of immense pride in my life, demonstrating the extraordinary impact of collective empathy and cooperation. It illustrates the power of friendship and collaboration, showing that when people come together with a common goal, remarkable transformations can occur.
Film Festivals and International recognition
“Under the Water,” Barack’s story, deeply touched the hearts of many, and it garnered significant recognition. I received nominations and awards at numerous film festivals in Italy and around the world. Among these accolades, the most prestigious was the “Diversity as Value” award at the 77th edition of the Venice Film Festival. This recognition not only celebrated the power of storytelling but also emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the world of cinema.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible team behind “Under the Water” – Vincenzo D’Eugenio, Giovanni Zalloni, and the talented photographer Marco Cordone, whose stunning visuals you see on this page, played vital roles in making this short film a reality. A big thanks to all the Italian school and students who made possible for Barack to start his therapies into walk again. To my famiily, friends and everyone who supported me in this crazy journey: thanks.
1. My first film: 50 e 50
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