In 2003, Liberia was a nation shattered by the civil war between the government of Charles Taylor and a number of warlords. And like in all wars, it was the people who suffered. Everyone seemed to have a heartbreaking story of loss to tell. Towns and villages were destroyed and the people suffered violence, rape and unimaginable atrocities.

It was then that a group of women stood up and said, "We want peace, no more war!" Pray the Devil Back to Hell, directed by Gini Reticker, is a gripping documentary that follows this group of more than 2,000 brave women who demanded peace for Liberia, and succeeded. Leymah Gbowee led the peaceful campaign of mothers, sisters and daughters, armed only with white t-shirts and placards. Incredibly, the women managed to force the president to hear their voices and engage in peace talks with the warlords. They continued their struggle as the conflict got worse, and eventually compelled the warring sides to sign a peace agreement.

Reticker lets Gbowee narrate the story, along with others who were key in the movement. Their testimony is backed by photos and footage of the conflict, which illustrate all too clearly the devastation wrought by the civil war in Liberia. By the end, you are overwhelmed by the power of these ordinary women, who helped achieve the extraordinary.

Paavan Mathema

Pray the Devil Back to Hell (2008)
Run time: 92 mins
Dir: Gini Reticker
Playing at Lazimpat Gallery Caf�, 17 March, 7pm.The film is part of the Nepal International Human Rights Film Festival. Call Bev Hoffman at 9813443841 to host screenings.

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