Review: Warriors (2015)

21st January 2016

In a community deep with tradition, change can be slow and painstaking. Warriors documents the frustrating battle of a group of young Maasai warriors as they fight to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) from their community, using only their words, experiences and…Cricket.

Warriors is beautifully directed with innovative shot choices and inspiring animations that map beautifully the content of the film and the hope shown by these great young men. Initially opening with detailed accounts of FGM and with eye-opening statements from both victims and the village elders who believe firmly in their traditions, this is a balanced and fair account of the issues faced by young Maasai girls. Strongly opposed to FGM, but in no way judgmental or damning of those who have perpetrated the tradition for years Warriors is how a documentary should be. Free from exaggeration and the unnecessary shock factor, Warriors easily places the audience beside this group of men and takes them along for the fight. You can’t help but feel that this is your fight too.

The initial ‘educational’ portion is well paced and is followed up well by the excitement of the cricket and the Last man standing tournament the Maasai warriors have been invited to attend by the ECB. A much lighter portion of the film, it feels very different and eases the audience away from the hard-hitting facts to the light and breezy joy of a cricket tournament but manages this very tastefully, soon returning to the films true message. Their choice to play in traditional dress makes for some fantastic and artistic shots and the warriors grace and confidence behind camera provides some of the most enjoyable interviews you’ll ever watch. The piece ends as it should, with the Maasai warriors returning home to face their elders in their battle to end FGM.

Perfect for those interested in Africa, human rights and even cricket, but truly, Warriors is for everyone and I can’t think of anyone who won’t enjoy watching this film. Not a groundbreaking by any means but enjoyable and fun to watch, if a little harrowing in parts.

Excellent!

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