Original subtitles

Hello. Assalamu alaikum.

I'm calling to ask when the next Jazzton Band concert is.

What time on Friday?

5:00 pm?

Okay, thank you very much.

- Akram, breakfast. - Okay, I'm coming.

No eggs?

I only made beans, but I can make eggs if you want.

No need. This is fine.

Going to work on Friday?

Yes, a lot of orders to deliver.

I'll leave after the prayers. Why?

Nothing. I'm thinking of getting fish.

- Look at those slaves! - What's going on?

Network's down. They must've announced the death.

Stay here. I'll close the gates!

Akram! They're burning Bakri's car!

Is it the police?

It's Bakri. He has a gun.

- He shot them? - He's shooting in the air.

The president confirmed the death of the first vice president

and leader of the SPLM...

Don't go out there.

...John Garang, who died in a helicopter crash

on his way back from Uganda.

The statement also renewed the government's commitment

to the Naivasha Agreement,

which ended the civil war that lasted 50 years,

and guaranteed the Southerners the right to self-determination

by the end of the transitional period.

"To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return."

Breaking news: casualties among northern citizens

following an outbreak of riots in various parts of the capital, Khartoum.

There is no God but Allah.

- There is no God but Allah. - There is no God but Allah.

- Assalamu alaikum. - Alaikumu assalam.

I'm sorry, Santino, the residents want you out now.

Why? Because of the riots?

- How is it my fault? - I know!

I hardly convinced them to give you a couple days to evict.

I didn't riot.

I'm against riots, all the neighbors know that!

I pay my rent, Haj Ahmed. This is unfair!

I know, but it's the residents' decision. I have to respect it.

I have your money. The whole rent. Please forgive me.

Here are three bottles.

- Julia. Hello, Daniel, how are you? - How are you, Achole?

I'm very well, thank God.

- And you, Santino? - Good. How are you?

God bless you. We're good, thank God.

Please come in, guys.

Sorry, guys, I have a quick delivery to make. I won't be long.

- No problem. Be careful, man. - I will.

Thank God you're okay.

It's really bad in some neighborhoods.

Sorry, Achole,

we'll just be in your space till things settle down.

Don't say that. My place is yours. I'm your sister.

It's not much,

but the neighbors are kind. They won't give you trouble.

I made room for you. You'll be comfortable.

It's a Russian gun.

It holds five bullets.

Four in the chamber here

and one in the barrel.

You place the butt against your shoulder

and cock it,

then rack the slide

and you're good.

Aim at your target and shoot.

Wasn't Jazzton Band playing tonight?

Sorry, ma'am, the concert's canceled due to recent events.

We're only serving at the moment, but they'll be back next week.

That's okay. Till next time then.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

Great. We're going to repeat the same exercise.

Hi, what's going on?

The road's blocked. They're arresting rioters. Find another route.

We'll sing each tone only once.

It will help us regulate our vocal chords and have flexibility with musical notes,

after we've learned how to control our breathing through the diaphragm muscles

and from there to the larynx and vocal chords.

ON MY WAY HOME. DO YOU NEED ANYTHING?

The vocal cords produce the notes.

- It's not your spot. - I am going to take it.

- Take it. - Okay.

There's still dust.

- Where's Achole? - She went to get charcoal.

See, Danny, it's all clean now.

Go empty the bucket outside.

Santino, I'm not in the mood.

Khamis is asleep and Danny will be back in two minutes.

Well, two minutes is a long time.

You know I can water your trees in ten seconds.

Someone's watching.

How long are we staying here?

Two, three weeks until we find a place.

Two more weeks?

There's no water or power or gas.

You don't even go to the studio.

Why so impatient?

The Arabs are attacking Southerners everywhere!

I woke up in a good mood. Don't ruin it.

We're supposed to be entering a new era, we need to evolve and...

The new lesson is better breath control.

We need to take a deep breath...

and try again.

Danny, are you okay?

Danny?

- Are you blind? - I'll call my husband.

He'll call an ambulance.

Open the door! Why did you lock it?

What the hell? Stop!

Danny, are you okay?

- What's wrong? - Take him.

Stop! Stop!

Stop the car!

Akram! A Southerner's after me!

- Where are you? - Stop the car!

I don't know, Akram!

- Are you driving? - Yes!

- Stop! - Drive straight home!

Okay, I'm coming!

- Akram, wait! - Get in!

- Akram, listen! - Get inside!

Stop right there!

You're pointing a gun at me?

I said, "Stop!"

- Your name? - Akram Mohamed Omar Al Makk.

- Age? - Thirty-nine.

- Address? - 13, Block 115, West Khartoum.

- Who called this in? - I did, Officer.

Bakri Kamil, local committee head.

- Nice to meet you. - Same here.

- You need to come with us. - Okay.

Akram, your car keys.

Any belongings of the victim?

Nothing.

I took the bike,

as a reparation for my car.

Go with them. Go ahead, it's okay.

Hello. Yes, sir.

We have a problem.

My neighbor killed a Southerner.

He was chasing his wife.

We're going to the station.

Thank you, sir.

God bless you.

Good evening, Officer. I want to report that my husband's missing.

His name?

Santino Mabior.

- His address? - Just around the corner.

He's probably just drunk somewhere.

He doesn't drink.

Take a seat. I'll check for you.

- What does this Southerner want? - Says her husband's missing.

Cover up. It's a police station.

The lieutenant there, what's his name again?

- Kamal El Din? - Kamal, yes. Nice guy.

Said to call him if they bother us.

It was resolved on the way there.

Had we waited, it would've been a different story,

but, thank God, he acted fast.

And thank God your wife is okay.

It's not safe anymore. Be careful.

Okay, I'm off. Get some rest.

- Stay, Bakri. - Thanks, Brother.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

- Bye. - Thanks again.

Are you okay?

What's wrong? Did that man hurt you?

Are you scared?

Worried?

Listen, it was self-defense, nothing more.

Take this. Don't overthink it.

Couldn't you have fired a warning shot?

Mona, the guy was crazy, coming at us half-naked.

God knows what he could've done.

You could've shot him in the leg.

I didn't have time to think. It was instinct.

I asked him to stop, he didn't, so I fired.

Did you see his face?

He meant to kill you, it's the only explanation.

- I wish he had. - Mona!

Do you know him?

You know why he was after you?

Why would I know a Southerner?

So why are you trying to make me feel guilty?

A man died for God's sake!

- Aren't you upset? - That's not the point!

I was protecting my home. I'd do it again if I had to!

Where were you going anyway?

Why didn't you call?

I went to the doctor.

Was it really necessary? It's chaos out there.

Did you have to go now?

I'm sorry, Akram. I didn't mean to blame you.

Don't worry about it.

You'll get over it.

Take the pills. It'll help you sleep.

Tomorrow's another day.

That's eight photos, 4-by-6.

And the group photo's 5-by-8. Here you go.

- Thanks. - Welcome.

Julia, how are you? Glad to see you.

Where's Santino? Why didn't he come?

I came to ask about him, Mirghany.

- He didn't show up? - Not for a few days.

Hey, kid, has Santino come by when I wasn't here?

Haven't seen him since Garang died.

It's okay, I'll look around. Thanks anyway.

Godspeed, sweetheart. May God protect you.

Did you find Dad?

- Khamis, did you find Santino? - No, I haven't.

I checked hospitals, jail...

I called his family. No one's seen him.

We could check here.

Leave Daniel with Mariam and go tomorrow.

O Merciful Lord,

we lay these souls in your hands.

We trust that the dead in Christ shall rise.

We praise thee, O God, for sending your son,

and opening the gates of Heaven for us,

so we can dwell with you, O Eternal One,

and rule over for ever and ever.

Amen.

My brothers and sisters in Christ...

Isaiah the Prophet tells us that:

"Long ago, before the coming of Christ,

God said to us that he will destroy death forever.

He will wipe away our tears."

Be patient, Sister.

- You're not allowed. - Leave me alone.

Take her out.

Let me go, Khamis. I want to find him!

- Get her out of here. - Let me look for him!

How are you feeling? Better?

Much better.

What's that?

Songbirds.

I thought they'd keep you company and cheer you up.

Feed them twice a day.

- Assalamu alaikum. - Alaikumu assalam.

- Mrs. Mona? - Yes.

Officer Kamal's waiting for you.

Welcome, ma'am. A drink?

No, thanks. I just have a question. I won't take long.

Check those files.

How can I help you?

You said on the phone it's about last month's incident?

Honestly, I came without Akram's knowledge.

I'd like to contact the victim's family.

Why do you want to do that?

I want to see if I can pay the blood money or help them out.

He probably was their provider. But I need your help.

Unfortunately, we know nothing about him.

He's a John Doe, no one came looking for him.

I can't help you.

Will you let me know if someone does?

Listen, ma'am, I appreciate your noble gesture,

but this case is filed under article 51, meaning killed by unknown assailants.

If his family finds out, it can go to article 130, first-degree murder.

You understand me?

Yes, I understand. Thank you.

Ma'am...

- Wait, I can help you. - That'd be great.

I can get a copy of the report,

and a wallet taken from evidence so that he remains unidentified.

It can be helpful. You'll know his identity,

whether his family's trouble or not. So you don't act blindly.

Meet me behind the station in 15 minutes. Take my number.

CAUSE OF DEATH: STOMPED DURING RIOTS.

TRAFFIC DEPARTMENT DRIVER'S LICENSE

Mona, the handymen are here.

Come in.

- Assalamu alaikum. - Alaikumu assalam.

- Cut a quantity of 20 of this frame. - Sure.

Call someone for the ceiling. It's been leaking again.

You'd be better off making alcohol than pounding wayka.

Hey, you!

What's wrong with you? Why do you keep looking at us?

You should be ashamed!

Let's go. Take the camera inside.

Hurry up, Danny.

Julia, that's Mariam's spot.

It's hot over there. What are you, the municipality?

Mind your own peanuts!

I'll tell her I warned you, but you wouldn't move.

Let her sit on your lap if you love her so much.

Hello. Good morning.

Need anything, Sister?

Some wayka. How much for a bag?

The big one's five, the small for three. How much do you need?

A lot if it's good.

It's fresh. I made it this morning. Try it. You'll be back for more.

- What's your name? - Julia.

Is that your son?

Yes, my son, Daniel.

God bless him. I'm Mona, Julia.

Give me ten big bags, please.

My pleasure. You have a big occasion?

No, I keep it in the freezer.

You come here every day?

Every day, I never change it.

Ten big bags and a gift from me, so you come back again.

Thanks a lot.

Did you forget anything?

Would you happen to know a maid?

How are you, Daniel?

Say hi to your auntie.

Have a snack until your mom's done.

Thank you so much.

- Where are you from, Julia? - From Khartoum.

I mean, where's your family from?

A small town called Kodok, you know it?

- No, I don't. - Near Malakal.

I know Malakal.

But I came to Khartoum as a kid. I don't remember it.

You never visit?

If I had the money, I'd go to Egypt, not Kodok.

I have no one left there.

Everyone either died in the war or fled town.

Why Egypt, then?

I want to take my son to see the pyramids, far away from war.

The war is over.

The war never ends there.

Tomorrow it'll start again.

I'm a Khartoum girl now. I hardly know the South.

You've been selling wayka for long?

My mom used to make it.

I stayed home when I got married.

My husband was providing for us.

But lately, things changed.

- Call me when you're done. - Will do.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

That's too much, Mona.

No, take it. Come back anytime if you need work.

I do. Let me know if you need anything.

Cleaning, laundry. I can do anything.

I have a maid, but she's very inconsistent.

- You can have her job. - I'd love to. No more wayka.

I'll be here early morning tomorrow.

- Come after 9:00. After Akram leaves. - Sure, I will.

Are you tired?

Take the tents down! Take them down!

Collect the evidence!

Take everything down and make piles!

All of it, down!

Take the whole place down!

Come on, man.

Move!

Get in here!

Achole, what's going on?

This scumbag neighbor reported us. Damn him!

Be quiet! Go away or I'll arrest you too!

There, Officer, I sat down.

Julia, go to my brother Majok in Omdurman, stay with him!

It'll be a month or two in jail. We'll find another place.

Get out, woman! We're burning it down!

What are you doing here so early? I said after 9:00 a.m.

I'm sorry, I have a problem at home.

My other relatives live too far away.

It's okay, I'll wait here till 9:00.

Of course not. What happened at home?

The cops burnt it down.

But why?

My relative sells araqi.

If they live too far, how will you come tomorrow?

I'll get you a lightbulb. Clean it up. You'll stay here.

There's a broom back there.

Thank you, Mona. God bless you for your help.

May the peace, mercy and blessings of God be upon you.

- Good morning. - Morning.

Who is that?

The new maid.

She's going to live here?

I thought you didn't want live-in maids?

She lives too far away.

She can't make the trip every day.

- Want breakfast to-go? - No, jam is enough.

A Westerner or a Southerner?

Not sure, I can't tell.

What's her name?

Julia.

She's a Southerner, then.

She has a son too?

She's highly recommended by a neighbor.

I like that she's a mom.

The single ones come back from weekends pregnant.

You think she'll be different?

Southerners are savages,

like stray dogs.

They have no shame.

Her husband dies, she moves on to her stepson.

Can we give her a week? I already agreed.

As you wish, but she won't cook.

I know.

Where's the painting?

I took it down, I don't like it. I'll replace it.

Good. Bakri said the other day that it was cursed.

Cursed?

He said the houses it was hanging in either burned down or had disasters.

Anyhow, see you later. Goodbye.

Go, get the door open.

Dear viewers,

this was our coverage of this week's events...

- Julia! - ...of the Khartoum festivities

after it was chosen as the 2005 Arab Capital of Culture.

When we're done, I'll leave the food here for you and the boy.

These utensils are yours.

They have a red mark.

I'll give you a tour. There isn't much to do.

We mainly use this floor.

Downstairs is Akram's workshop.

It is now morning, my love

The tumultuous nightingale Came to you, O darling

It is now morning, my love

The tumultuous nightingale Came to you, O darling

He came to tell you He came to complain

About his constant longing for you My love

Mona, you didn't put the wayka in the freezer.

I forgot. You do it.

Put your hand on her shoulder.

Smile.

Thanks. This way, please.

Mr. Mirghany, how are you?

Hello, Julia.

I'm good.

How about you? Holding on?

Thank God.

It hurts not knowing where he is.

I thought maybe he'll call you if he went somewhere.

I'll leave you the number of the lady I work for.

- Give it to him if he calls you. - I will.

Here, this is Santino's last paycheck.

Keep it and if you need more, just ask.

I'm like your father. Here.

- Thanks, Mr. Mirghany. - You're welcome.

Your tests show that your fertility issues are not due to polycystic ovary syndrome,

but to POI, premature ovarian failure.

Unfortunately, there is no treatment.

We can try ICSI or hormonal therapy, but chances of success are slim.

Julia?

Is something wrong?

What's this? An ID or a license?

Whose is it? Here, take it back.

Welcome back.

What did the doctor say?

The doctor?

Same thing, polycystic ovary syndrome.

How about surgery?

Not necessary. I'm responding well to treatment.

We'll keep trying. There's hope.

God willing.

Don't go through the cabinets! Where's the wallet?

I have it because I'm trying to find your dad.

You want to find him, right?

Okay, but if you tell your mom,

I'll kick you out. You'll have nowhere to go.

And no one will look for your dad, okay?

Why did you scribble on his face?

Don't be mad at him.

He loves you very much.

Mona.

May I ask for a loan?

School starts soon. I want to buy Danny the supplies.

- He goes to school? - It's his first year.

Which school?

I'll look for a public one nearby.

How will he go every day?

I'll take him until he stops being scared of cars.

There's a private school down the road, he can get there on his own.

Don't worry, I'll take care of the fees.

God help us repay you for all you do for us.

It's nothing, Julia. You're welcome.

Don't just stand there, help me.

Hold this for me.

You don't say much, do you?

Does this camera work?

I have one that works. You want it?

Here.

Come on, hold this.

Whose camera is this?

My dad's.

- Your dad's? - Yes.

Where's your dad?

See what I got?

Lucky you! Take a snap and show it to me.

Wait, girl.

Where's your man? The boy says he's lost.

He left two months ago and never came back.

Did you check the hospitals? Or he could be in jail.

I looked everywhere. I couldn't find him.

- What's his full name? - Santino Mabior.

Okay.

I know the lieutenant at this station. He might be able to help you.

Akram?

My phone is dead. Can I use yours to call Mom?

Go ahead.

- Hello. - Yes, hello.

How are you, Mom?

Why are you calling from Akram's phone?

- Mine is dead. - Okay, how is it going?

I need the Nuaimiya recipe.

It's very easy, write it down.

I'll put you on speaker.

- Ready? - Yes, I'm listening.

First, you chop an onion, then...

- Hello? - Hello.

- Yes? - Hello, officer.

Yes, hello, who is this?

Akram's wife, I don't know if you remember me.

No, I don't remember the name.

I came by about the Southerner's case.

- Yes, Mrs. Mona. - Yes, Mona.

Why did you leave the room? I wanted to say hi.

I asked her about a recipe.

I wanted to check if I have the ingredients.

OUTGOING CALLS

CALL DURATION

If it weren't for the blame, my love

If it weren't for the blame

Leave these, Julia, I soaked some in cloves water over there.

All right.

I would spread my wings In the air like a dove

I would fly and soar into space

Give me the good ones.

I would leave behind this world of void

Enough time

Enough time has passed

Being scared to be blamed...

Do Southern women make smoke baths?

We don't, but we know of it.

You have a lovely voice.

Can you sing Sayed Khalifa?

- You listen to Sudanese music? - What? Of course we do.

I meant Northern songs.

Are you a singer? I saw your photo in the closet.

I used to be, but I quit.

Why?

Akram gave me an ultimatum.

Empty threat. Who'd leave a pretty lady like you?

No, girl. We divorced over it. He wouldn't take me back till I quit.

Most men are selfish and coldhearted.

Listen, I didn't mean that Akram's selfish.

He seems like a good man who loves you a lot.

He is a good man, but I gave up on love a long time ago.

A good man's enough.

You're right. Hold on to him.

You know a man's worth only when you lose him.

Give me that blanket.

I'm always thinking,

God, what happened to him?

If he's alive, why doesn't he call?

I'm sure he has an excuse.

Sometimes I think he left us.

Don't they say men run away?

Why would he?

He wanted to go to Europe.

He said I'd finish school and go to college,

make something of myself.

But I refused.

We can't swim. How would we cross the sea in a tiny boat?

I wish I'd said yes.

We wouldn't have been in this state.

Daniel starts school next week.

You can finish school too, then go to college.

Daniel can stay here with me.

What school would take me, Mona? I'm too old now.

Don't worry, I know just the place.

- How are you, ma'am? - Fine, thanks.

What did Akram say?

He asked about a missing Southerner, he gave me his name. I said I'd check.

Okay. And if he calls, what will you tell him?

That I couldn't find any trace of him anywhere.

If he calls again, don't answer.

- Good job. Thank you. - Glad to help, ma'am.

I can pretend to be Lieutenant Kamal.

I can even pretend to be Akram if you want.

Listen here, don't you dare!

Don't think you can blackmail me!

I swear to God if you misbehave, I'll scream for help!

Akram might get mad at me, but he'll kill you, you get that?

- Do you want the money? - I'm sorry, ma'am, forgive me.

Will you take the money or not? Don't apologize!

- It's a misunderstanding. - Get on your bike and go! Shame on you!

Think it will work out?

Maybe, God willing.

May God grant us.

By the way, you can take smoke baths all month long,

not just when you're ovulating.

The Southerner will stay, I assume.

She's nice.

She keeps me company and works well.

You enrolled her kid in the school down the road?

Yes.

Really, Mona?

What's wrong? I paid the fees with my inheritance.

It's not about the money.

This school isn't for him, put him in a public one.

Why?

He won't fit in. He'll just suffer.

How long do you intend on paying?

If the girl quits, will you still pay for him?

Who knows?

The public school's too far. He's too small for the bus.

He can walk.

You're crossing the line with the kid and his mom.

Crossing the line?

Make friends with a neighbor, someone to go out with.

Not the servant.

Don't call her that, Akram.

But that's what she is.

Not too long ago, my granddad's house was full of slaves and servants.

May God forgive you, the Prophet said we're all equal.

He meant the free ones, not slaves,

or we wouldn't have slavery in Islamic law.

We'll never evolve if people think like you.

Two months ago you didn't know Garang, now you're an activist?

And you always used that word, what's new?

I stopped, I never said it to anyone's face,

or treated people differently because they're Southerners.

Do you know any of them?

There are millions of Southerners in Khartoum.

You know anyone besides her?

That's not the point.

Really? You are part of the society you call racist.

You do the same as them, you just can't see it.

By the way, you enslave them too.

- Me? - Yes.

You sleep with the AC, while she stews in the servant's room.

You sit around while she serves you for pennies,

what kind of friend is that?

It's not slavery, it's not related to her origins.

- It's a job, that's all. - A job we, the Arabs, never do.

It's about pride, our daughters would never do it.

You know I'm right.

You won't drink from her cup. You marked it.

Please.

Ask for Father Peter. He's expecting you.

The school's behind the church.

Why's Achole leaving now? She could vote here then go.

People are already celebrating there.

She can make some money.

More than here?

They have better stuff in stores, who'd buy hers?

The clean stuff makes you happy, our men don't like it.

Listen, get us a bottle before she leaves.

I want to try araqi at least once.

You want a divorce or what? Don't get me fired.

Besides, are we going to that place or not?

Hi, Danny.

What's wrong?

- What is it? - I don't want to go to school.

I want to work with uncle Akram in the factory.

Julia, grab your bag. I'll drop you off and drive him back.

- This is chess? - Yes.

- You made those? - I made the small pawns.

You know how to play?

Uncle Akram said he'll teach me.

Want to tell me what happened at school?

- The boys bully me. - What did they say to you?

It was early morning. I was sleeping in our hut.

My sister Alek woke me up, she said,

"Majier, the Arab army's here."

I heard the Kalashnikovs.

Our whole family was killed. Alek and I ran away.

We crossed the river and went into the jungle.

I left her there, didn't bury her.

I walked until I reached an SPLA camp.

I got recruited in the Red Army.

I'm familiar with war, my brothers.

This war has to end for the sake of our people and children.

Who's that?

Sudan's People's Liberation Movement.

- What do they want? - It's about the referendum.

- Any plans for Christmas? - I'm going to Juba.

- You too? - You should come.

The sister talking over there,

you have an opinion to share with us?

I was just saying I'm not going to Juba.

A Khartoum girl.

So what are you voting for?

Unity. We're one people sharing the same land.

Listen to me,

they're our people for their own interests.

Bashir's government wants

peace and unity only for oil.

Once they get it, they'll return to the old ways.

"You're Africans, I'm Arab and my ancestor's Al Abbas.

If Abbas were alive, he wouldn't believe it."

We want separation. Jalabas can't be trusted.

School is no place for this kind of talk.

My brothers, in the past,

a camp commander used to call Arabs "Mondokoro," "Jalaba."

But we have the authority now.

Leave racism to the Northerners, we don't want it in the South.

Also if we can forgive and forget Northerners...

SPLM sent me to America

to do my studies there.

- Have you graduated? - Yes.

Excuse me.

Julia.

It's Julia, right?

Sorry if I embarrassed you in front of your colleagues.

It's no big deal.

I'm Majier Mulual Majok from the SPLM.

Former veteran in the People's Army.

- I'm Julia. - Julia what?

Just Julia.

I know your name. Tell me something I don't know.

Like what?

Do you have a man or not?

Okay, I'll see you tomorrow, Just Julia.

Why are you making a fuss?

The principal said it won't happen again.

They don't consider him Sudanese. They'll do nothing.

His report said he was "integrated".

I told you it was the wrong school.

You just don't listen.

Let him come to the factory, do carpentry.

He's got skill.

It's not like he'll become an ambassador.

Fine, Akram. Thanks a lot.

Then put the wood to the blade.

Danny, we're leaving.

- Bye. - Bye.

Your murmurs, your touch

O my healer

I miss your eyes

My love

Your murmurs, your touch

O my healer

Stop laughing, you'll give us away.

Looking good. You should always wear this.

I washed it, but I didn't know it was yours.

Well, now you know. Don't tell Akram, he'd kill me.

Don't worry.

You come here often?

Maybe once a year, to listen to their new songs.

Thanks, everyone.

Always happy to be here.

Anyone wants to join us on stage?

The guy over there?

Maybe the veiled lady. Your friend's pointing at you.

Come on, Mona, go. No one will recognize you.

Welcome.

What song would you like to sing?

O stranger, far away from home You're bound to come back

After all this time away

You're bound to come back

To tell me...

What happened, Mona? People were cheering for you.

It's not that.

Didn't you want to sing?

I was dying to, but he'd have known it's me.

God, Akram, you scared me. Where are you going?

To Bakri's to watch the game. Where were you?

At the market.

I forgot my keys upstairs.

Take mine, I'm staying in.

Okay.

- Which market did you go to? - Saad Gishra.

Nice, did you buy anything?

No, that's an old dress, I was comparing fabrics.

There was nothing tempting.

You said someone was about to recognize you, who's that?

A vendor, we were bargaining.

I told him a veil costs less at the next store,

and to go see for himself. And he actually did.

So we left before he got back.

Give me your phone.

Julia!

Come here, girl!

Where were you?

- At the market. - Which one?

Saad Gishra.

You can go.

I'm sorry.

Seems like I heard wrong.

- How much? - Twenty-five.

Here you go.

Thanks.

Will it match the hall curtains?

The green ones?

They're red. You forgot your own curtains?

Not my taste, my late mother-in-law bought them.

Change them then.

I wanted to move, get away from the graveyard.

But Akram said it's his family home.

Do people have to keep all their heritage?

Can't they keep only what works for them?

He said it has his dad's scent.

With that graveyard nearby, it has every dead dad's scent.

I forgot to tell you, I met a guy at school.

No way! Who is he? Tell me now!

Hello, Julia, how are you?

Hello, Father.

Where will you take the exam?

Khartoum, Father.

Okay, we're opening a new school in Juba.

- We need assistants. - That'd be an honor.

But I can't have Daniel switch schools now.

Okay, not a problem.

If you change your mind, call me anytime, okay?

- Thank you, Father. - Have a good day.

Thanks.

Are you in a hurry?

No, why? You're not done yet?

I want to show you something.

My first time in a church.

It's so beautiful!

I want to show you the choir practicing for Christmas.

We don't have music in mosques.

Is that why you never go?

- Mona El Zahi? - Yes.

How are you? I'm James, I played with Jazzton.

Nice to meet you.

- She's your friend, Julia? - Yes, I'm her friend.

You have to sing with us.

I don't want to bother you, maybe next time.

No bother at all. It's Christmas caroling day.

We play all kinds of music. The choir and instruments are there.

We'd be honored to have you with us.

He's my neighbor and I am his

When will I visit his home?

He's my neighbor and I am his

When will I visit his home?

I wish him only heaven

But I'm burning in his hell

The closest person to my heart

His dark skin takes my breath away

The closest person to my heart

His dark skin takes my breath away

My neighbor, my neighbor

He's my neighbor and I am his

I kept a special one just for you.

Did you ever get such a cool invitation?

My son Daniel is 11 and he writes better than you.

Bring him over, I'd like to meet him.

I'll think about it.

Girl, I'm the neighborhood guy The neighborhood guy

I swear I'm in love with you In love with you

Girl, I'm the neighborhood guy The neighborhood guy

I swear I'm in love with you

In love, in love, in love

This was at a concert at Ahfad University.

You're so good, Mona.

You were a real star.

This was at the Parliament café.

Is Tariq the one cropped out?

- The guy singing at the café? - Yes.

What's your story? Did you fall out?

No, he's a decent guy.

Then why crop his face if he's decent?

He was the cause of the divorce.

He was in love with you?

Akram thought so.

That's why he hates singing. He can't stand it.

And then? Tell me what happened!

It's a stupid story anyway.

We were writing a song over the phone.

Akram was calling, but the line was busy.

He came home furious,

asking who I was talking to. I said Mom.

I didn't need the hassle.

He went through your phone.

He did, but I'd deleted Tariq's number.

He didn't find it.

- How did he find out? - He didn't find Mom's either.

How did you reconcile?

I promised not to sing or lie again.

- But you didn't. - I did, I quit singing.

How about lying?

I still lie sometimes, but I'm better at it. I don't get caught.

Why do you always choose to lie when you can tell the truth?

I don't know, really.

People don't always like the truth.

What if someone lied to you?

Wouldn't you be mad?

It depends on their intention.

The power's back.

Let's play some daloka?

Okay.

- Danny, come sing with us. - I don't know this song.

Come dance then.

Emotions are strong, because there is hatred

between North and South.

Mona, where's the tea?

It's just about ready.

Where are the birds?

I set them free.

Why?

I felt bad keeping them in a cage for no reason.

You think you saved them? They're going to die.

They can't find food on their own.

Stupid emotional decisions.

Why can't you ask me first?

Keep the cage open where it was, maybe they'll come back.

I think the proposition being put forth by the other party is arrogant.

It exudes a racist reality.

So strange.

He keeps harping on about racism,

but he'd never let his daughter marry a Southerner.

Politicians sell words to whoever will buy them.

It serves the Israeli imperialistic interests in the region.

How are you?

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

You make this for special people?

Who said I made it?

- Majier. - Daniel.

Are you in sixth grade?

Are you in the army?

SPLM, it's more or less the same.

Is this real?

Does it fire?

You came here to shoot?

Okay.

Can I fire another one?

You can, but don't blow up the house.

Give him another one.

Come, don't be scared.

Where are you going?

Just come.

You live by the river?

I want a son just like Daniel.

Take him. You'd be doing me a favor.

Does he come with a mom?

Get in, this water's from the South.

You want Danny or his mom?

I want it all.

I want a kid, a house, and a woman to love.

You don't have a woman to love?

When war kills your whole family, anger stops you from building a new one.

You're not angry anymore?

You reconciled with your family's killers?

I forgave them,

but I didn't reconcile.

What's the difference?

Reconciliation is made with others.

Forgiveness is between me and myself,

to live and look for what I've been missing.

Come South, we'll build a home together.

I can't, Majier.

Still thinking about Santino?

The man is dead.

I can call our people in the government, get you the info.

It's none of your business.

I don't need your help.

You think because you speak Arabic well, you're jalaba, you're one of them?

The mondokoros won't be there for you in the end.

Julia!

Apology letters from parents at Daniel's school.

They promise it won't happen again.

Good for you.

Why so cold, Akram? Can't you be happy for me, for once?

For you?

Are you doing it for you or for Daniel?

Anyway, it's just ink on paper.

They'll all be deported if they vote for secession.

So all your work's for nothing.

Hello.

I didn't think you'd answer, I tried my luck.

Happy New Year, Mona.

Happy New Year, Tariq. How are you?

I'm good. I heard you sang at church.

It's a one-off. I was with a friend.

How did you know?

James told me. Is your friend the one who was with you at the gig?

Listen, Mona, we want the old band back.

People are asking for you. We're ready if you are.

I quit singing, Tariq,

but thanks for the offer.

Don't decide now, take your time.

I'll think about it. I have to go now.

Vote!

Why are we seceding?

We're separating to live safely and in peace.

We're separating so each one of us lives his life to the full.

- Where did you get that bike? - Get lost, kid!

- It's my dad's. - Get the hell out of here!

Mom, Akram only gets home to change then he's out again.

But everything's okay.

Akram is a good man, girl, he...

Aunt Mona, I found my dad's bike at your neighbor's!

Mom, I'll call you back.

- Maybe it just looks the same. - The license plate is 1955.

Stay here, I'll ask him. Be right back.

Load everything, leave the bike for last.

Hi, Bakri, are you moving?

No, I'm just making some room.

You never know the crap you have until it's out.

You're so right.

The little Southerner is yours, isn't he?

He's the maid's son.

Don't worry about him. He makes up stories.

Says it's his dad's bike. You know whose it was?

He's lying. Everything's his dad's.

I know his dad, he does odd jobs for us.

Okay, no problem then.

- Thanks and sorry about this. - Don't mention it.

What did he say?

Yes, Danny. Seems like it is your dad's bike.

Bakri said a Southerner sold it to him.

He needed the money to travel.

It was 4 or 5 years ago.

He's a liar!

Why would he lie?

I'm sorry, Danny.

It seems your dad won't be coming back.

Listen, I know you're very upset,

but you're a big boy now.

If Julia hears about it, it'll break her heart.

She's starting to move on.

You don't want to hurt her again, do you?

Promise me, it's our secret.

No one else in this house can know about it.

Okay?

Our Heavenly Father We pray to you and we ask you

To grant victory to our leader Dr. John

Our leader who fights

For the cause of Abyei

Give victory to Dr. John

Here is Bor Sparking up the revolution

And the people of Agar

Supported the revolution

And Aweil declared The victory of the revolution

And Twic mobilized For the revolution

And the whole of Rek Joined the revolution

The Nuer people Led us to the victory

And the Ngok continued the revolution

Write your name, age, and gender.

Then go inside, vote either for Unity or Secession.

Tell the women The war for freedom will go on

Generation after generation

And our young men defied the odds By taking up arms

And women chose to lead us On a different path

In the liberation revolution

For the renaissance and victory Of the country

They served in homes To teach their children

And all these efforts and labor Are for our country, the One South

Does your neighbor ride a bike?

Bakri, does he ride a bike?

Why would he? He has a car.

What's wrong with you?

Nothing, I'm just tired.

Okay, finish this piece and go get some rest.

And just as this giving land

can grow flowers among the thorns,

this same beloved good land...

Akram.

Did you hurt your hand?

I scraped it doing the dishes.

Listen, Akram...

I need to talk to you.

Tariq called me.

And?

He heard I sang at Julia's school,

so he thought I was back at it.

They need a vocalist.

I declined. The call took less than two minutes.

You sang?

I'm sorry.

Why did you answer his call?

His number is not saved.

There's something else.

The problem with my ovaries...

I've known about it since before our last visit together.

The doctor told me years ago.

I didn't tell you.

I was scared you'd remarry.

Your turn.

Play, man.

He locked the board.

Daniel! What's wrong?

Julia?

What is it, Mona?

Come, sit down.

I have a confession to make.

I don't know if you can forgive me.

Who are you? What are you doing here?

On your knees!

You stupid slave!

What's wrong, Mona? Tell me.

Mona?

We didn't meet by chance.

That was not smart. You should've shot me here.

I know you like killing Southerners.

Freeze! Drop the gun!

Majier?

Are you crazy?

What are you doing here?

Do you know you live with the man who killed your husband?

- Killed who? I don't know her man! - Shut up!

Bring him!

Is this the man who killed Santino Mabior?

Yes, it's him.

This doesn't concern you. I told you to leave me alone!

You won't come with me for these mondokoros

knowing that they killed your man?

And you work as their servant?

Stay out of it! No one asked for your help!

Daniel has.

He came to me to find his dad.

And now this man calls me a stupid slave!

If he doesn't come here and apologize,

I'll throw him in jail!

Majier,

for the love of God,

don't do this, they're family to me.

What?

If you accept humiliation, that's on you.

If you want to be their servant, do as you please,

but I don't accept disgrace.

Akram, please apologize to him. Do it for me.

Don't make things worse.

I apologize, Officer.

I was wrong. Please forgive me.

A woman that sells her man so cheap,

isn't worthy of my love.

Take your son and get out of here.

I never want to see you again.

Let's go, Danny.

Daniel.

Here's the key.

I'll knock in the morning.

If he's hungry, there's a grocery store close by.

I left money in the counter drawer.

Okay, darling?

God be with you.

Thank you, Mr. Mirghany.

Danny.

We killed a man, Akram.

It's the least I could do.

I did it alone, I didn't want to involve you.

Don't try to justify it by saying you were protecting my feelings.

You were scared of divorce.

And don't try to guilt trip me about this man.

I was protecting myself and my home.

But you know it wasn't self-defense.

You shot him because he's a Southerner.

I shot him because you lied.

We all lied, Akram.

But you chose to lie to yourself.

What are you getting at?

That I'm wrong?

That I'm a racist scumbag?

Yes, I was wrong...

to take you back knowing you'll never change.

Why do it if you weren't ready to turn the page?

Because I love you.

But loving you is one thing,

and trusting you is another.

That's the first time you've said it since we got back together.

But you don't love me, Akram.

You don't even know who I am.

Even in the bed that brings us together.

You don't know my likes and dislikes.

You never asked.

You love a version of me you've created in your mind.

You only want me to be her.

I know you very well, Mona.

I just don't know what you're getting at.

I want you to get to know me.

Maybe then you'll love me.

I'm not this image in your head,

but I'm not a bad person.

I get it now.

You want to sing again, don't you?

Don't beat around the bush.

Your speech, your confessions yesterday,

it all leads to that.

Yes, Akram, I want to sing.

But I don't want to lie anymore.

I'm so tired.

I want to be with you without fear.

Tell you about my day, hear about yours.

Talk without thinking...

and have you listen without judging.

Okay, very well.

I understand.

But I have a question.

You don't know Tariq's number?

It's getting late.

You sleep here tonight.

I'll sleep somewhere else.

Tomorrow, pack your things and go.

Sing, Mona.

Do whatever you want.

The result of the referendum came in favor of secession

with close to 99% of the votes.

The United Nations and European Union welcomed

the referendum result conducted with high levels of transparency,

and international monitoring that included notable figures.

It came into effect last Friday at midnight.

Official festivities took place this Saturday in Juba.

The International Organization for Migration announced

the start of deportations of thousands of Southerners,

via the Kosti port for naval transport,

towards the cities of Wau and Aweil in the nascent nation of South Sudan.

It's indicated that the deportations took place

with the assistance of the National Center for Displacement.

The sky was lit with fireworks and filled with chants of freedom and joy.

We're here, ma'am.

When did you find out?

The very first month.

How?

Because I enrolled Danny in that school?

Something was off,

no one overpays wages like you did.

And you bought all that wayka from me, when you don't even use it to cook.

I had a hunch at first.

How was it confirmed?

It was me who found Santino's wallet, not Danny.

You scribbled on the ID card?

He would not have given it up if he'd seen his dad's picture.

Are you here to interrogate me?

I came to apologize.

But it's you who deceived us all.

You said it depends on intention, right?

What intention?

You took advantage of me.

You killed my man and still have the audacity to talk?

What was I supposed to do?

Call the police?

You would've gotten away with it.

You decided to pay your penance in that way.

And I was forced to accept for my son.

If I hadn't been so worried for Danny,

I'd have killed you both.

I took advantage of you?

It's the other way around!

You took advantage of our distress and that we were on our own.

Where's Danny?

I miss him so much.

What scares us at the start

Is that we'll see the end some day

I couldn't live without you

You couldn't be with me

Keep the memories close to you

My excuses were not enough

Leave behind a smile for me to see

When I talk to myself in the mirror

Tell me how

I can survive another autumn

Without you by my side

Only a mere shadow of you

Tell me how

I can survive another autumn

Without you by my side

Just a mere shadow of you

What makes the end so fearful

Is to fondly remember the beginning

To realize that I am living Without you

Without you by my side