City of Joy

For two decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by severe violence, with sexual assault being used as a tool of war to fracture communities and exploit valuable minerals. This has led to Congo being labeled as “the worst place in the world to be a woman.” However, “City of Joy” presents an alternative narrative about the area. The documentary highlights Jane, a participant at a center where women who have endured horrific abuse come together to emerge as leaders. The film also introduces us to the center’s founders: a dedicated Congolese doctor, a Congolese activist, and an avant-garde playwright from New York. The story oscillates between moments of joy and sorrow as these individuals unite to foster hope in a region often seen as beyond redemption.