War Witch was the official entry of Canada to the Best Foreign Language Film at the 85th Academy Awards 2013. War Witch was ultimately nominated for the 2013 Best Foreign Film Oscar.
Komona (Rachel Mwanza) is only 12 years old when she is kidnapped by rebel soldiers and enslaved to a life of guerrilla warfare in the African jungle. Forced to commit unspeakable acts of brutality, she finds hope for survival in protective, ghost-like visions (inspiring a rebel chief to anoint her “War Witch”), and in a tender relationship with a fellow soldier named Magician (Serge Kanyinda). Together, they manage to escape the rebels’ clutches, and a normal life finally seems within reach. But after their freedom proves short-lived, Komona realizes she must find a way to bury the ghosts of her past.
Or, simply… Somewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa, Komona a 14-year-old girl tells her unborn child growing inside her the story of her life since she has been at war. Everything started when she was abducted by the rebel army at the age of 12.
In addition to War Witch, the following four movies are also nominated for the 2013 Best Foreign Film Oscar; Amour, No, A Royal Affair, Kon Tiki.
Find out more about all 2013 Oscar nominees.
