Documentary,War Germany,United States of America,Turkey,Syrian Arab Republic
In the documentary City of Ghosts, directed by Matthew Heineman, the filmmakers have unprecedented access to the group called "Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently" (RBSS), an organization formed by a group of citizen journalists from Raqqa, Syria. The group gets its name from the citizen journalists' mission to document and expose the atrocities committed by the terrorist organization ISIS in their hometown.
The film begins by introducing the RBSS members individually and telling the story of how they came together. These journalists started by using mobile phones to capture and distribute videos, photos, and reports documenting the horrors taking place under ISIS rule. As the group gains more international attention, the members begin to face deadly threats from ISIS militants determined to silence their voices.
Fearing for their lives, the RBSS members are compelled to flee Raqqa, leaving behind their families and everything they know. They find refuge in neighboring countries, primarily Turkey, but continue their mission to expose ISIS through online platforms and advocate for international intervention.
City of Ghosts shows the RBSS members grappling with the personal toll their activism takes on their mental health and personal relationships. Despite facing constant danger and emotional trauma, they remain resolute in their mission to shine a light on the atrocities committed by ISIS.
The documentary also highlights the global impact of RBSS's work. Their efforts garner international recognition, including being awarded the prestigious International Press Freedom Award. The RBSS members are invited to speak at conferences, appear on news programs, and raise awareness around the world about the continuing struggle in Raqqa.
As the film progresses, the filmmakers show the increasing scale of retaliation by ISIS against their families and friends left behind in Raqqa. The RBSS members realize the urgency to bring their fight to an international level and understand that they are not just fighting for their city but for the future of democracy and free speech.
City of Ghosts culminates in the group receiving the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought from the European Parliament. However, amidst the celebration, tragedy strikes as one of the RBSS founders, Naji Jerf, is assassinated in Turkey. The film ends on a somber note, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by RBSS members and the continuing struggle against ISIS.
Overall, City of Ghosts provides a harrowing and intimate portrayal of the RBSS members' tireless fight against ISIS, their immense sacrifices, and their unwavering commitment to exposing the truth.