October 2009

Fearless, feisty and resolute, the Rough Aunties are a remarkable group of women unwavering in their stand to protect and care for the abused, neglected and forgotten children of Durban, South Africa. This latest documentary by internationally acclaimed director Kim Longinotto (Sisters in Law, Divorce Iranian Style) follows the outspoken, multiracial cadre of Thuli, Mildred, Sdudla, Eureka and Jackie, as they wage a daily battle against systemic apathy, corruption, and greed to help the most vulnerable and disenfranchised of their communities. Despite the harsh realities of violence, poverty, and racism in the women's work at the Bobbi Bear child welfare organization and in the heartaches of their personal lives, the portraits that emerge on screen are filled with grace, wisdom, friendship, and a deeply stirring conviction. Neither politics, nor social or racial divisions stand a chance against the united force of the women. Once again Longinotto has managed to bring us an intimate portrait of change from Africa, this time from post-apartheid South Africa, a nation being transformed with hope and energy into a new democracy.

Directed by Kim Longinotto, South Africa, 2008, 103 mins.

Official site     Facebook: Bobbi Bear     YouTube clip 1     YouTube clip 2

YouTube filmmakers' interview     Director site     Chicago Sun-Times

NewCity Chicago     TimeOut Chicago     Chicago Reader        

Showtimes:
Fri., Oct. 2 at 7 & 9 pm
Sat.-Sun., Oct. 3-4 at 3, 5, 7 & 9 pm
Mon.-Thurs., Oct. 5-8 at 7 & 9 pm

Tickets:
$9 general admission
FREE for Facets Members!

Order tickets online


For all Cinémathèque inquiries, contact Charles Coleman at 773.281.9075 or charles@facets.org