Welcome to Sarajevo

In 1992, the city of Sarajevo endured a harrowing siege that brought chaos and destruction to its streets. The war created an environment filled with despair, impacting the lives of its citizens and drawing international attention.

ITN reporter Michael Henderson, accompanied by fellow journalist Jimmy Flynn, ventured into the chaos. They aimed to uncover the truth behind the violence, driven by a relentless pursuit of significant stories amidst the destruction.

During their reporting, Michael and Jimmy found solace at a Holiday Inn, where many journalists gathered. The hotel, amidst the turmoil, became an unlikely sanctuary for the beleaguered press corps, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences.

Henderson and Flynn connected with Risto Bavić, a new translator provided by ITN. Risto's insights into the local environment and language brought the journalists closer to the heart-wrenching narratives unfolding around them.

The reporters visited the Ljubica Ivezic's orphanage, where two hundred children sought refuge amidst the shelling. Their experiences at the orphanage opened Henderson's eyes to the intense suffering faced by the children during the war.

Determined to highlight the plight of Sarajevo's children, Henderson filed a critical report from the orphanage. His powerful narrative played a crucial role in bringing international attention to the humanitarian crisis in the city.

American aid worker Nina organized a UN-sanctioned bus evacuation for the children of Sarajevo. Henderson successfully advocated for Emira, a young Bosniak girl, to be included in the evacuation, showcasing his commitment to her safety.

Henderson and his cameraman embarked on a treacherous journey to document the evacuation. They faced continuous obstacles from the Bosnian Serbs, who aimed to thwart the rescue efforts at every turn, highlighting the perils of wartime reporting.

The evacuation reached a critical point when armed Chetniks intercepted the bus, forcibly taking Bosniak orphans away. Emotionally charged pleas for assistance echoed through the air as the journalists grappled with the brutal realities of the conflict.

Henderson returned to London with Emira, officially welcoming her into his family. However, this moment of happiness was short-lived when he learned that Emira's estranged mother was actively searching for her, complicating their new life.

Feeling the weight of Emira's situation, Henderson returned to Sarajevo to uncover her family history. In doing so, he navigated a web of organized crime and reconnected with Risto, who was now fighting for Bosnia's liberation.

The harsh realities of war struck home when Risto was killed by a sniper's bullet. This tragic event underscored the dangers present in the conflict and left Henderson grappling with the impact of loss amidst his quest.

Eventually, Henderson located Emira's mother, who faced an agonizing decision regarding her daughter's future. After much contemplation, she chose to have Emira remain with her new family in England, signing the adoption papers in resignation.

Amidst the turmoil, Harun, a friend of Risto, declared his intent to hold a concert on the streets. This act, symbolizing hope, gathered many Sarajevans, including Henderson and Emira, in a shared moment of beauty amidst the devastation.

The film concludes with the acknowledgement that Emira remains in England, highlighting the emotional toll of war and displacement. This poignant ending serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the conflict and the lives forever changed.