London, UK – March 27, 2024
With the future of human rights in Britain hanging in the balance, the All Party Parliamentary Group on Refugees today invites creatives behind the critically-acclaimed film “Io Capitano” to address the Houses of Parliament on the importance of centering compassion and human rights in refugee and migrant policy.
The APPG, Think-Film Impact Production and Altitude Films are joining together to host a special House of Lords film event that represents a further milestone in the ongoing battle over the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill. Speakers and issue stakeholders present are expected to urge Members of both Houses to reject the Bill, and to say that, if passed, it will be a travesty and stain on the British national conscience.
The internationally awarded and Oscar-nominated feature film “Io Capitano” conveys a profound message about the migrant experience. Inspired by true life testimonies, the story follows two teenagers who set out on what turns out to be a perilous and brutally exacting journey from Senegal to Europe, in search of a better life.
Standing in solidarity with the messages of “Io Capitano” in the House of Lords today are distinguished peer Lord Alf Dubs, writer and actor Rufus Jones (“Home”), actor Youssef Kerkour (“Home”), comedian and presenter Nish Kumar (“The Mash Report”, “Pod Save the UK”), actor Jamael Westman (“Hamilton”, “The Essex Serpent”, “Good Grief”), and former Sheffield Lord Mayor and Member of the European Parliament Magid Magid. All are expected to strongly critique the Rwanda Bill and challenge its legitimacy in light of the UK’s international human rights obligations and commitments.
Lord Alf Dubs, a renowned advocate for refugee rights, said, “This a critical moment for human rights. My hope is that Io Capitano can bring us to a new understanding of what is at stake for refugees around the world who look to governments for protection and fair treatment, and I hope the message of the film resonates across this House.”
“Io Capitano” Director Matteo Garrone, said, “People’s courage and resilience as they navigate treacherous paths in search of hope and dignity deserve to be respected.”
“Io Capitano” Writer Mamadou Kouassi, whose own journey and experience inspired the film, said, “Our movie is not a fiction. It draws its inspiration from real-life experiences of young people who go through this brutal experience like myself. We ask every member of this Parliament to act with compassion for their fellow human beings, reject this Bill and refuse to let people be treated with indignity and cruelty.”
“Io Capitano” Impact Producer Amy Shepherd, Think-Film Impact Production, said “Amid escalating anti-immigrant sentiment, “Io Capitano” transcends borders, reminds us of our shared humanity and underscores the urgent need for policies and political actions that prioritise empathy, fairness and human rights.”
Since its European premiere at the Venice Film Festival in 2023, “Io Capitano” has garnered significant acclaim, earning multiple awards at Venice Film Festival, including the first ever Venice Biennale Collateral Impact Award, as well as nominations at the Academy Awards, Golden Globes and European Film Awards.
The film’s impact has extended far beyond the confines of the film industry, with notable screenings at the European Parliament, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Geneva, and even a special screening organised for the Pope. These engagements underscore the film’s resonance and relevance on a global scale, highlighting its ability to spark meaningful conversations and discussions beyond the realm of cinema.
IO CAPITANO will be released in UK and Irish cinemas from 5 April. For more information visit Altitude.film
Press Contacts:
Yik Kei Leung, Impact Strategist, Think-Film Impact Production: yikkei.leung@tfip.org
Jon Rushton, Film Publicist, Io Capitano: jon@jonrushton.com
