Refuge(e) 2019
Directed by Sylvia Johnson, *Refuge(e)* (2019) shines a stark light on the harrowing experiences of two asylum seekers, Alpha and Zeferino, whose desperate flight from violence at home led them to the U.S. border—only to face indefinite detention in a for-profit prison.
Director: Sylvia Johnson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refuge(e) (2019) about?
*Refuge(e)* follows two refugees, Alpha and Zeferino, who fled life-threatening violence in their home countries only to be imprisoned in a U.S. for-profit detention center upon seeking asylum. The documentary exposes their ordeal and highlights the systemic injustices faced by thousands more in similar situations.
Who directed Refuge(e)?
Sylvia Johnson directed *Refuge(e)*. Known for her documentary work, she crafts intimate, socially conscious films that amplify marginalized voices.
Who stars in Refuge(e)?
The documentary centers on Alpha and Zeferino, whose real-life experiences drive the narrative forward.
Is Refuge(e) (2019) worth watching?
*Refuge(e)* isn't just worth watching—it's essential viewing for anyone concerned about asylum and human rights. As a concise, uncompromising documentary, it delivers emotional impact and urgency within its 15-minute runtime. Though unrated, its themes resonate deeply with pressing global issues.
How long is Refuge(e)?
The film has a runtime of 15 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Refuge(e) (2019) — A gripping documentary on asylum and incarceration
Directed by Sylvia Johnson, *Refuge(e)* (2019) shines a stark light on the harrowing experiences of two asylum seekers, Alpha and Zeferino, whose desperate flight from violence at home led them to the U.S. border—only to face indefinite detention in a for-profit prison. This short but powerful documentary strips away the political rhetoric to expose the human cost of a broken system, framing their stories within the broader crisis of refugees denied justice. With its unflinching gaze and intimate storytelling, the film captures the emotional toll of displacement while questioning the ethics of incarceration without crime.
Johnson's documentary transcends statistics and headlines, immersing viewers in the resilience of those forced to navigate a labyrinth of bureaucracy and hostility. Shot through with moments of quiet dignity, *Refuge(e)* challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about global migration and the meaning of sanctuary. A brief yet unforgettable experience, it leaves little doubt about the scale of injustice faced by the voiceless.