Question 1

What drove people to undertake such dangerous journeys, as depicted in the film?

Accepted Answer

The film explores the fundamental human drive for freedom and safety that compels individuals to undertake perilous journeys. It illustrates the dire circumstances in their home countries that force families like Zainab's to abandon their lives and place their trust in smugglers and uncertain futures. The narrative highlights the extreme measures people will take when faced with no viable alternatives.

Question 2

What makes the film's perspective unique?

Accepted Answer

The film distinguishes itself by centering the narratives of those often relegated to statistics. By travelling to Indonesia and speaking directly with 250 asylum seekers, Jessie Taylor and Ali Reza Sadiqi provide an intimate and unmediated look at their experiences. This direct approach, utilising their own words and candid footage, offers a powerful counterpoint to more detached portrayals.

Question 3

Is this film likely to resonate with Australian audiences?

Accepted Answer

Given Australia's complex relationship with asylum seekers and its geographical proximity to Indonesia, the themes explored in 'Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea' are highly relevant. The film offers a human perspective on a political issue, potentially fostering empathy and understanding among viewers who are grappling with these same conversations in their own country.

Question 4

Can you tell me about the film's approach to storytelling?

Accepted Answer

'Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea' prioritises the voices of asylum seekers. Filmmakers Jessie Taylor and Ali Reza Sadiqi travelled extensively, gathering testimonies from individuals in various states of limbo. The documentary uses their direct words, supplemented by observational footage, to create an immersive and authentic portrayal of their journeys and motivations.

Question 5

How does the film portray the challenges faced by asylum seekers?

Accepted Answer

The film delves into the profound difficulties asylum seekers confront by sharing their personal narratives. Through direct accounts from individuals held in jails, detention centres, and hostels in Indonesia, it illustrates the desperation and immense risks involved in seeking safety. The use of candid interviews and hidden camera footage aims to provide an unvarnished look at their plight.

Question 6

Who are the filmmakers behind this documentary?

Accepted Answer

The documentary is a collaborative effort by Jessie Taylor and Ali Reza Sadiqi. Their work involved extensive travel across Indonesia, where they engaged with approximately 250 asylum seekers. Their approach combined candid interviews with hidden camera footage, aiming to present the 'refugee' experience directly through the voices of those who have lived it.

Question 7

What is the core story of 'Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea'?

Accepted Answer

At its heart, the film recounts the harrowing journey of Zainab, a young girl whose family fled northern Afghanistan when she was nine. Their quest for freedom led them across the globe, placing their lives in the hands of strangers. The narrative unfolds through their perilous passage, navigating borders, detention centres, and treacherous sea voyages, reflecting the broader experiences of countless asylum seekers.

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea