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THE WEIGHT OF FREEDOM

THE WEIGHT OF FREEDOM
By Joseph Murkijanian

GENRE: Thriller / Suspense, Drama
LOGLINE:

In modern Haiti, a determined journalist confronts the haunting legacy of colonial debt and corruption while seeking truth amid chaos, leading an unlikely alliance between a disillusioned gang member, a resilient mother, and her child, as they rise against systemic exploitation to reclaim their nation's narrative and fight for their rightful reparations.

SYNOPSIS:

Unique Selling Point

The screenplay stands out for its bold exploration of Haiti's colonial and post-colonial struggles, blending personal narratives with historical and political commentary. Its compelling characters and thematic depth make it a unique and engaging story.

Set against the backdrop of contemporary Haiti, 'The Price of Freedom' follows the intertwining lives of three main characters: Elsie Jean-Baptiste, a passionate journalist; Rico, a young boy caught in the throes of gang violence; and Solène Dorval, a resilient mother and teacher. The film opens with a sweeping aerial shot of the Haitian coastline, revealing a land rich in history yet marred by poverty and political turmoil. As Elsie records her podcast detailing the struggles of her people, she reflects on the historical injustices that have plagued Haiti since its independence. Through her voiceover, we learn about the legacy of slavery, the forced reparations to France, and the ongoing exploitation by foreign powers. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day sequences, illustrating the harsh realities faced by the citizens of Port-au-Prince. Elsie, determined to expose the truth, risks her safety to document the corruption surrounding humanitarian aid and the political elite. Meanwhile, Rico, a street-smart teenager, navigates the dangerous world of gangs, where loyalty is often tested, and survival is paramount. His character represents the lost youth of Haiti, struggling to find a path amidst chaos. Solène, a dedicated teacher, embodies hope and resilience. She strives to educate the next generation, teaching them about their history and the importance of community. Her relationship with her daughter, Mya, highlights the personal stakes involved in the fight for a better future. As the story progresses, the three characters' paths converge during a planned humanitarian convoy meant to deliver aid to the impoverished neighborhoods. Tensions rise as Elsie uncovers a conspiracy involving the convoy, revealing that the aid is being siphoned off by corrupt officials and private contractors. The day of the convoy becomes a pivotal moment, as Rico is drawn into a gang operation to intercept the trucks, believing it will provide for his community. However, when he sees Solène and Mya in the line of fire, he makes a life-altering decision to protect them, leading to a dramatic confrontation that exposes the truth behind the aid. In the aftermath of the convoy's destruction, Elsie's livestream goes viral, igniting a global conversation about Haiti's historical debts and the need for reparations. The film culminates in a powerful community uprising, where the citizens of Port-au-Prince reclaim their narrative and demand justice. Through their collective action, they begin to dismantle the systems of oppression that have held them back for so long. The final scenes depict a transformed Haiti, where hope and resilience shine through the rubble, and the characters find their place in a new narrative of empowerment and healing. 'The Price of Freedom' is a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the fight for justice, showcasing the strength of the Haitian spirit in the face of adversity.

Set against the backdrop of contemporary Haiti, 'The Price of Freedom' follows the intertwining lives of three main characters: Elsie Jean-Baptiste, a passionate journalist; Rico, a young boy caught in the throes of gang violence; and Solène Dorval, a resilient mother and teacher. The film opens with a sweeping aerial shot of the Haitian coastline, revealing a land rich in history yet marred by poverty and political turmoil. As Elsie records her podcast detailing the struggles of her people, she reflects on the historical injustices that have plagued Haiti since its independence. Through her voiceover, we learn about the legacy of slavery, the forced reparations to France, and the ongoing exploitation by foreign powers. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day sequences, illustrating the harsh realities faced by the citizens of Port-au-Prince. Elsie, determined to expose the truth, risks her safety to document the corruption surrounding humanitarian aid and the political elite. Meanwhile, Rico, a street-smart teenager, navigates the dangerous world of gangs, where loyalty is often tested, and survival is paramount. His character represents the lost youth of Haiti, struggling to find a path amidst chaos. Solène, a dedicated teacher, embodies hope and resilience. She strives to educate the next generation, teaching them about their history and the importance of community. Her relationship with her daughter, Mya, highlights the personal stakes involved in the fight for a better future. As the story progresses, the three characters' paths converge during a planned humanitarian convoy meant to deliver aid to the impoverished neighborhoods. Tensions rise as Elsie uncovers a conspiracy involving the convoy, revealing that the aid is being siphoned off by corrupt officials and private contractors. The day of the convoy becomes a pivotal moment, as Rico is drawn into a gang operation to intercept the trucks, believing it will provide for his community. However, when he sees Solène and Mya in the line of fire, he makes a life-altering decision to protect them, leading to a dramatic confrontation that exposes the truth behind the aid. In the aftermath of the convoy's destruction, Elsie's livestream goes viral, igniting a global conversation about Haiti's historical debts and the need for reparations. The film culminates in a powerful community uprising, where the citizens of Port-au-Prince reclaim their narrative and demand justice. Through their collective action, they begin to dismantle the systems of oppression that have held them back for so long. The final scenes depict a transformed Haiti, where hope and resilience shine through the rubble, and the characters find their place in a new narrative of empowerment and healing. 'The Price of Freedom' is a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the fight for justice, showcasing the strength of the Haitian spirit in the face of adversity.

THE WEIGHT OF FREEDOM

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Marcos Fizzotti

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Nathaniel Baker

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Oleg Mullayanov

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