Armed guards, hired to protect ships from Somali pirates, restlessly live their everyday lives while constantly anticipating an attack.
Director: Gregoris Rentis
Runtime: 78
Fest Year: 2023
Somali pirates once made headlines for their attacks, causing a ramping up of security measures on ships. Now, pirate attacks are rare, so the private armed guards instead bide their time, endlessly training and gazing off into the ocean horizon. With the men spending months away from home, their families believe they are on the open seas preparing for honor in a battle with an unknown enemy. Through poignant cinematography, director Gregory Rentis documents these guards in their restless everyday realities as they vigilantly guard a ship that is no longer under attack. Following three men in an exclusive industry, a nostalgic search for macho pursuits is felt palpably in each dreamily shot frame. (KS)