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The Rebel Puppeteers of Sudan

A group of journalists and a drama collective come together to create “Bisha TV,” a satirical web series that mocks Sudan’s harsh leadership. The film follows their efforts to spark conversation in a country where speaking out can be dangerous. Their shows turn fear into laughter, making political ideas easier to share and harder to silence.

They perform in markets and neighborhoods, reaching people who might not attend a protest. Using humor, they get around limits on free speech and make complex issues easier to understand. Small acts—writing scripts, making puppets, gathering crowds—help build wider support.

Since the film’s release, Sudan has seen major political change, including the 2019 uprising that removed longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. Artists have stayed active in protests, even as repression continues.

Language: Arabic with English subtitles

Year: 2018

Watch free: YouTube

Length: 12 minutes

The Rebel Puppeteers of Sudan
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