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29 Jan – 8 Feb 2026

It Must Make Peace

Paul R. Chandler | Brian David Melnyk | Mali | 2017 | 123' | | IFFR 2018

Mali was once a paradise for music-lovers. Now, traditional music and dance is rapidly losing ground to globalisation, a declining economy and religious radicalisation. Over three years, Paul R. Chandler and Brian Melnyk documented the remaining music scene and the threats coming at it from all sides. More than just entertainment, Malian music heals, cures, celebrates, reflects, encourages and unifies. It creates a moment of peace: disputes are set aside, differences forgotten.

Besides long performances, the film contains interviews with concerned musicians who fear that a whole culture will be lost along with the old music. But some – like the new generation of rappers, who combine rap with traditional elements – are more hopeful. They use their influence to educate younger generations and make them more aware – thereby symbolising a renewal of self-confidence in this former French colony.

Part of Scopitone Cafe, an eclectic mix of documentaries about music and how it is
experienced. Stick around for fun, chat, music and more. The bar is open! Free admission.  

Film details

Country of production
Mali
Year
2017
Festival edition
IFFR 2018
Length
123"
Medium/Format
DCP

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