Synopsis
This short film explores the harrowing yet inspiring journey of a survivor of forced labor in Ghana’s fishing industry. Centered on the life of a young individual trafficked into labor, the film offers a deeply personal perspective on the systemic injustices and resilience required to break free from the cycle of exploitation. The story serves as both a testimony and a call to action, shedding light on the pervasive issue of child labor in Ghana’s fishing communities.
Told through the eyes of one survivor, The Fifth Child reveals a powerful narrative of betrayal, survival, and eventual empowerment. Through intimate storytelling and arresting visuals, the film brings the audience face-to-face with the realities of modern slavery, while also uplifting the strength and spirit of those who have overcome it.
Ultimately, The Fifth Child is a call to conscience—urging viewers to support the fight against child trafficking and to advocate for systemic change that protects the lives and futures of vulnerable children and communities.
Children are often taken from impoverished rural areas under false promises of education and opportunity. Instead, they face exploitative work conditions—casting fishing nets, diving into treacherous waters, and enduring long hours without care, nourishment, or safety. These are rooted in systemic poverty, cultural practices, and weak enforcement of anti-trafficking laws.
The title, The Fifth Child, honors the devastating truth that children as young as five are trafficked—stripped of their childhood and forced into dangerous, grueling labor. The title carries a dual weight: it represents the literal age at which many are trafficked, while symbolizing the erasure of identity and the innocence lost far too soon. It is a reflection of the film’s survivor-centered storytelling, ensuring the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and felt.
Narrative & Artistic Approach
The creative vision for this short film is deeply rooted in the natural beauty of Ghana, using its breathtaking landscapes as a canvas to tell a powerful and emotional story. Inspired by an artistic style, which draws heavily from nature, the film will showcase Ghana’s serene coastal areas and vibrant fishing communities. The ocean will play a dual role as both a central visual element and a metaphorical representation of the protagonist’s journey from the turbulence of exploitation to the calm of empowerment and recovery.
The film will also incorporate experimental shots to deepen the narrative’s emotional impact. Abstract visuals, such as underwater sequences capturing the murkiness of the lake or slow-motion scenes highlighting the tension of labor, will evoke the physical and emotional weight of forced labor. These experimental moments will balance the grounded realism of the story, adding layers of meaning and artistic depth.
The narrative pacing will reflect the protagonist’s journey, alternating between slower, reflective sequences and faster, more chaotic moments.
Director
Herrana Addisu is an award-winning film director, multidisciplinary artist, and social impact strategist passionate about using storytelling to drive systemic change. Raised in Ethiopia, her work is rooted in her family’s migration journey and lifelong commitment to human rights. She is the founder of Chucha Studios, a creative production company dedicated to bridging art and advocacy. Her debut film, The River, is a tribute to Ethiopian culture and the resilience of women, highlighting global issues such as water accessibility and gender-based violence. The film has screened internationally in London, Amsterdam, New York, and Los Angeles, and was funded by SheaMoisture and Tina Knowles. Beyond film, Herrana has led impactful campaigns, including efforts to end forced marriage in New York and to advance legislation against forced labor. With six years of experience working within the UN system, she has contributed to global initiatives focused on Women, Peace, and Security, particularly supporting women in conflict-affected areas. Her advocacy is grounded in advancing equity through storytelling and policy. She holds a Master’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in Human Rights and International Law. Her work has been featured in Essence, Forbes, InStyle, Business Wire, and New York Magazine, and she continues to lead projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), using art and media to inspire global action. In 2024, she was named as part of the Dazed 100 list, recognizing her as one of the most influential and innovative voices shaping youth culture today.
Film Festivals
PVD World Music African Film Festival
Providence, RI | September 18-22, 2024
KITFO Film Festival
Inglewood, CA | September 22, 2024
Award: Best Experimental Film
A Shaded View on Fashion Film Festival (ASVOFF)
Dover Street Market, Paris | November 7, 2024
Award: Black Spectrum
Urbanworld Film Festival (Academy Award-Qualifying Festival)
New York, NY | November 15, 2024
Award: Best Female Director for a Short Film
Regent Park Film Festival
Toronto, Canada | December 1, 2024
