A Screaming Man

Adam, known as Champ and portrayed by Youssouf Djaoro, was once a celebrated swimming champion from Central Africa. Now serving as a pool attendant at an upscale hotel, his life takes an unexpected turn when Mrs. Wang, the hotel manager, demotes him to a gate security guard due to economic constraints. In a twist of fate, his son, Abdel, assumes the role of pool attendant.

Caught in the turmoil of impending war, the local chief exerts pressure on Adam to contribute financially to support Chad’s battle against rebel forces, reprimanding him for not participating in a recent cause meeting. Sharing a personal story, the chief reveals that he was compelled to send his own 17-year-old son to join the fight, presenting Adam with a daunting ultimatum—he has only three days to provide the requested funds.

In a desperate bid to reclaim his position, Adam makes a difficult decision by volunteering Abdel for the Chadian Ground Forces. Before long, soldiers arrive at their home and forcibly draft Abdel into the military. This act rekindles Adam’s role as the pool attendant he once was, but the familial burdens continue to weigh heavily on his heart.

Compounding the tragedy, a 17-year-old girl, who is Abdel’s pregnant girlfriend, comes knocking at Adam’s door. He welcomes her into their home and offers care in this tumultuous time. As the conflict escalates, the townspeople begin to flee, and Adam confides in his daughter-in-law about the moral quandary he’s faced, leading her to a breaking point.

Realizing the gravity of his decisions, Adam sets off on a poignant journey to the war zone. Riding his motorcycle with a sidecar, he is determined to bring Abdel home. Tragically, he discovers Abdel gravely injured, suffering wounds to his eye, neck, right arm, and abdomen. That night, seizing a moment of resolve, Adam decides to take Abdel from the hospital and place him in the sidecar for the journey back.

As they travel, Abdel expresses a heartfelt wish to swim in the river, a poignant reminder of the life he once lived. Tragically, as they arrive at the river, Abdel succumbs to his injuries. With a heavy heart, Adam gently floats his son’s lifeless body in the river, allowing the currents to carry him away, a final farewell to the boy who had once been full of dreams and promise.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 19:08