The story takes place in post-revolution Libya. It is a documentary on a country’s rebuilding from scratch after a major event such as a revolution. Not on a practical level, but as people experience it. The film’s main character is Yusef; a 25 year old man who lives in Benghazi and took part in the revolution. Yusef, aka Swat, as young people know him at home and in several other Arabian countries Yusef is a rapper; in fact Libya’s most famous rapper. He wrote the revolution’s songs and his fame has been spread to all Arabian countries. Yusef is a young man, a modern, typical example of a young person of his time, a fact he enjoys. Just as the overwhelming majority of young people in Libya, Yusef is a faithful Muslim; not a religious zealot but rather an Islamic tradition keeper in everyday life. He despises hypocrite priests and in his songs fiercely criticizes Islamic fundamentalists. Through the eyes of Yusef, the documentary tries to unfold young Libyans’ vision for their country after Gaddafi. The camera follows Yusef everywhere in his everyday life; with his family and friends, to the studio where he sings, to his walks where he tells us the story of his life, particularly after the revolution. The camera also records his talks with young people on everyday matters, social issues, politics, etc; and thus brings to light their vision for a new life and their lust for more freedom and opportunities. Yusef’s whole presence is accompanied by his music, whose rights of use he has conceded us for the documentary’s needs; an excellent piece of Arabian rap which adds beat and vigor to our story. We recorded Yusef talking about all the above for several hours. His monologue or his conversations with friends are consistent or at odds with the worries of today’s Libyans and the way they experience the transition. |