Angelina Jolie is actively promoting the advocacy-centered film Muganga, The One Who Treats, based on the real-life story of Dr. Denis Mukwege, the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize winner who heals survivors of wartime sexual violence. Jolie’s commitment to this cause is underscored through her collaboration with Mukwege, whom she has known since 2013 after meeting survivors in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In an exclusive conversation obtained by Variety, Jolie and Mukwege discuss the crucial role men must take in combating sexual violence. Jolie stresses the need for male participation in advocacy efforts, emphasizing that
“I don’t see how women can do more to make the world understand.”
Dr. Mukwege Encourages Male Allies to Join the Fight Against Sexual Violence
Dr. Denis Mukwege responded to concerns expressed by young men unsure of their role in this movement. He shared,
“I said to some men once — we were talking about this issue, young men — they said, ‘Well, we don’t know, like, if we were to join, are we welcome to join? Because we feel like we’re the guys.’ And I said, ‘No, of course. Like, please, you’re welcome.’ We’re partners, men and women around the world. And we want men to see issues like this as their place to be with us.”
— Denis Mukwege, Nobel Laureate
This statement underlines the inclusive approach necessary to address issues of sexual violence effectively, recognizing men and women as partners in a collective struggle.
The Film Muganga: Healing and Advocacy Through Cinematic Storytelling
Muganga, which means “doctor” or “traditional healer” in Swahili, portrays Dr. Mukwege’s partnership with Belgian surgeon Guy Cadière to treat thousands of sexual violence survivors in eastern Congo. Filmed on location in Gabon, the film features Isaach De Bankolé portraying Mukwege, supported by an ensemble cast including Vincent Macaigne, Manon Bresch, Babetida Sadjo, and Déborah Lukumuena.
The film has garnered critical acclaim, receiving three Valois awards at the Angoulême Film Festival in France, and has achieved box office success with over €3 million ($3.5 million) in revenue. Produced by Cynthia Pinet under France’s Petites Poupées Production, Muganga is now qualified for major César Awards consideration, with Jolie as a co-producer.
Financial Backing and Distribution of Muganga
The project was financed by Canex Creations, an initiative led by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), alongside collaborators such as Canal+, France 3 Cinéma, France Télévisions, France’s CNC, and Scope Pictures. Canal+ holds exclusive streaming rights in France and Francophone Africa, while global sales are managed by WME Independent.
Significance of the Film and Advocacy Efforts
Muganga represents more than just a cinematic achievement; it serves as a compelling vehicle for raising awareness and fostering cross-gender partnerships in the fight against sexual violence. Angelina Jolie’s involvement as both a co-producer and a vocal supporter reinforces the message that effective advocacy requires broad participation, especially encouraging men to engage as partners in this cause. As the film reaches wider audiences and garners award recognition, it is poised to amplify conversations on sexual violence prevention and survivor support worldwide.
