The 31st Sarajevo Film Festival will feature the premiere of "House with a Heart," a documentary by Sabahat Džafić. The film is scheduled to screen on August 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Cineplexx cinema as part of the festival's BH Film program. This documentary offers a sensitive portrayal of the resilience and hope of unaccompanied children in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"House with a Heart" focuses on minors who have arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina without guardians. Despite the complexities of war, borders, and uncertainty, these children maintain a strong belief in play, connection, and a brighter future. Filmed entirely in Sarajevo, the documentary captures authentic moments from the daily lives of these children, who are under state care, and includes narratives from their guardians. The film specifically addresses migration through the lens of unaccompanied minor migrants, one of the most vulnerable demographics. A central figure is Ibrahim, an eighteen-year-old from Morocco, who resides in a Safe House in Sarajevo with his younger brother and a friend. The narrative highlights the precarious situation Ibrahim and his friend face, as the safe house's capacity is limited to minors, potentially leading to separation from Ibrahim's brother. The documentary chronicles their efforts to remain together in Sarajevo, a city that has become their adopted home and where they have found a supportive community.
The film's premiere comes at a time when the plight of unaccompanied minors is a significant global concern. Reports indicate that these children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and face numerous challenges, including difficulties in accessing education, healthcare, and legal protections. A 2022 report highlighted that a substantial number of asylum applications from unaccompanied children in Europe were either rejected or caught in lengthy processes. Studies also suggest that migration experiences, especially prolonged separation from family, can have profound psychological impacts on children, affecting their well-being and sense of security. Ibrahim's struggle underscores the universal desire for belonging and the critical importance of maintaining familial bonds amidst displacement and adversity. The Sarajevo Film Festival, known for showcasing diverse cinematic voices, provides an important platform for "House with a Heart" to bring these critical issues to a wider audience.