Kidnapping, Inc. Premieres at Sundance 2024: A Haitian Film’s Historic Debut

Haitian Film Debuts Amidst Real-Life Drama

In a case of life chillingly mirroring art, Kidnapping, Inc., the first Haitian narrative feature film to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, debuted on January 22, 2024. The film, a darkly comedic thriller directed by Bruno Mourral, explores Haiti’s pervasive kidnapping crisis, a subject that hit close to home for the production team when members of the crew were themselves kidnapped during filming.

The Plot Thickens: A Farcical Kidnapping Gone Wrong

Kidnapping, Inc. follows two inept criminals, Doc and Zoe, who botch the kidnapping of a presidential candidate’s son, leading to his accidental death. Their desperate attempt to cover up their crime by kidnapping a look-alike and his pregnant wife spirals into a chaotic and darkly humorous exploration of corruption and resilience in Port-au-Prince. The film blends the absurdity of Fargo with the gritty realism of City of God, offering a unique perspective on contemporary Haiti.

Behind the Scenes: Art Imitates Life in a Disturbing Twist

The film’s journey to Sundance was fraught with challenges. Production, which began in 2019, was hampered by political unrest, the COVID-19 pandemic, and even the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. However, the most unsettling parallel to the film’s narrative occurred when crew members were kidnapped during filming, mirroring the very plot they were depicting. This incident underscores the risks faced by artists striving to tell important stories in challenging environments.

Mourral’s Vision: A Personal and Political Statement

For Mourral, Kidnapping, Inc. is a deeply personal project. Dedicated to his father, who was murdered in Haiti in 2005, the film delves into the social and political complexities of his homeland. By combining dark humor with a poignant depiction of Haiti’s struggles, Mourral encourages viewers to confront difficult truths about corruption, class divisions, and the cycle of violence. The film also showcases the resilience of the Haitian people and the transformative power of art amidst adversity.

The Cast and Crew: A Collaborative Effort

Kidnapping, Inc. is a collaborative project between Haiti, Canada, and France. The cast includes Jasmuel Andri as Doc, Rolaphton Mercure as Zoe, Anabel Lopez as Audrey, Ashley Laraque as Benjamin, and Gessica Geneus as Laura. The film was produced by Promenades Films, Péripheria Productions Inc, and BHM Films, with XYZ Films acquiring the world sales rights.

The Future of Kidnapping, Inc. and Haitian Cinema

Following its Sundance premiere, Kidnapping, Inc. screened at other festivals, including Fantasia, the Montreal International Black Film Festival, and the Angoulême Francophone Film Festival. The film’s wider release is anticipated, offering audiences a chance to engage with its thought-provoking themes. Its reception suggests a growing interest in Haitian cinema and its potential to shed light on complex global issues. While its long-term impact remains to be seen, Kidnapping, Inc. has undoubtedly marked a significant step for Haitian filmmaking, opening doors for other Haitian artists and stories. The film’s success could encourage further international collaborations and potentially inspire a new wave of Haitian cinema on the global stage. The film prompts reflection on cinema’s role in raising awareness about social issues and sparking meaningful dialogue. It also underscores the power of art to reflect reality, even when that reality is as complex and challenging as the current situation in Haiti.