Moloch tropical

In a fortress perched atop a mountain peak in Haiti, a democratically elected president prepares for an Independence Day ceremony surrounded by his closest aides. Dignitaries, officials, and numerous foreign guests are expected to attend the celebrations. But when the big day arrives, the president finds his country in turmoil. Overnight, a rebellion has broken out that has engulfed the entire state. But nothing will deter the president from his plans. With MOLOCH TROPICAL, Peck “packs the sharpest criticism of total power into the most elegant chamber drama. A masterful film.” (Toronto IFF, 2009) MOLOCH TROPICAL combines the claustrophobic confines of the palace walls with the political reality of a country marked by crises. With powerful images, satirical moments, and precise characterization, Peck depicts the abyss of a regime that has long since lost touch with the people. Supported by an international ensemble, a dense chamber drama unfolds that can also be read as an allegory of the abuse of power in many political systems. The film was shown in competition at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2009 and received the Signis Award at the Amiens Film Festival. At the 2010 Berlinale, MOLOCH TROPICAL was shown in the “Berlinale Special” series, where it attracted international attention. It was also screened at the Human Rights Watch Film Festival, where it found an audience concerned with global issues of justice and political responsibility. With these festival appearances and awards, Raoul Peck cemented his reputation as one of the most important political filmmakers of our time.