Abouna

As their father disappears into the West African desert, his two sons are left to experience loss, love and exile - but there is humour here too, and rich humanity, not least in the director's heart-warming sensitivity to the tenderness of childhood. Add the vibrancy of African colour, fine acoustic guitar soundtrack, and you relish a rare cinematic treat.

Hong Kong International Film Festival 2003

Firebird Award for Mahamat-Saleh Haroun