Another Day of Life

In 1975, the Carnation Revolution in Portugal sparked dramatic political changes in its former colonies, including Angola. This revolution allowed for a decolonization process to begin, fundamentally altering the trajectory of Angola's governance and society.

As the political landscape in Angola shifted, Portuguese nationals rushed to leave Luanda, fearing imminent violence. The upscale districts became ghost towns as families hurriedly packed their belongings into crates, illustrating the chaos of the moment.

As the streets filled with debris and abandoned businesses, journalist Ryszard Kapuscinski began documenting the eerie silence of a city on the brink of transformation. His daily reports captured the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty pervading Luanda.

The final days before Angolan independence were marked by intense power struggles among various factions of the liberation movement. Different groups vied for control of the future republic, creating an atmosphere of instability and conflict.

In a courageous act of journalism, Kapuscinski decided to venture to the front lines of the conflict in Angola. This decision transformed his role from a mere observer to an active participant in documenting the unfolding crisis.

On the front lines, Kapuscinski encountered the terrifying realities of war, where each moment was fraught with danger. The absurdity of survival became apparent as he navigated the battlefield, feeling the weight of each decision he made.

During his reporting, Kapuscinski met valiant fighters like Carlota and commander Farrusco, who humanized the conflict for him. These interactions deepened his understanding of the war's impact on individual lives and shaped his narrative approach.

As he witnessed the brutality and heroism around him, Kapuscinski grappled with the duality of his role as a journalist. His compassion stirred an internal struggle between remaining neutral and becoming involved in the human stories unfolding around him.

Driven by empathy, Kapuscinski sought to reveal the authentic narrative of the Angolan people. He interrogated the role of the war correspondent, wrestling with the ethical implications of his reporting.

Through this harrowing experience, Kapuscinski underwent a profound transformation, both personally and as a writer. The war changed his perceptions and beliefs, forging a deeper connection to the stories he encountered.

The film *Another Day of Life* intertwines animation and documentary-style segments, revisiting the events 40 years later. This approach allows audiences to reconnect with the characters and histories of Angola, enriching the storytelling.

The legacy of the Angolan Civil War looms large, with its impact still felt in contemporary Angolan society. The stories captured by Kapuscinski and presented in the film serve as a reminder of the resilience of those who lived through these turbulent times.