That Our Children Would Not Die

About This Movie

So, there's this documentary from 1978, 'That Our Children Would Not Die'. It dives into the healthcare landscape across five different locations in Nigeria. The tone is quite stark and raw, capturing the struggles faced by these communities. It moves at a deliberate pace, allowing the viewer to really absorb the gravity of the situations. What struck me was how it highlights the varying approaches to healthcare, making you think about access and equity. The practical effects are of course minimal, given it's a documentary, but the real performances come from the people featured—very authentic, very poignant. It’s distinctive in how it doesn't hold back on the harsh realities, which some might find off-putting, but that's what makes it feel genuine, you know?

This film is quite scarce, with limited releases over the years, making it a bit of a treasure for collectors focused on documentary cinema. It originally saw various formats, but finding it on VHS or any early digital formats can be a challenge. Interest tends to be niche, mainly among those who appreciate historical documentaries or who have a specific interest in African healthcare issues.