Beautifully Broken 2018

Beautifully Broken tells a profound true story about the intertwining lives of three families from different nations, each searching for hope and safety amidst the chaos of war. As their journeys unfold, they come to understand that aiding others can significantly transform both their external circumstances and their inner worlds.

The narrative kicks off with William Mwizerwa, portrayed by Bonko Khoza, who is fleeing the brutalities of the Rwandan Genocide. Accompanied by his wife and daughter, they narrowly escape certain death at the hands of machete and gun-wielding soldiers. After finally finding refuge in a Kenyan camp, William learns about a program that could facilitate his journey to America. However, to establish residency, he must make the harrowing decision to leave his family behind for the time being. Despite their trepidation, he and his wife agree that this uncertain plan is their best option.

Upon arriving in America, William crosses paths with Randy Hartley, played by Scott William Winters, a devoted family man consumed with his career ambitions. However, his steadfast faith is put to the test as he grapples with his rebellious daughter, Andrea, whose troubling behavior stems from a hidden tragedy she chooses to share only with her Rwandan pen pal, Umuhoza, brought to life by Ditebogo Ledwaba.

As William and Randy foster their friendship, they find strength in one another, navigating the challenges of maintaining their families amidst various trials. Their bond ultimately leads to the establishment of an outreach center aimed at supporting other refugee families affected by war. This compassionate initiative brings the long-awaited reunion of William’s wife and daughter in America.

However, just as William’s family reassembles, Randy’s personal life begins to unravel. In a pivotal moment, he confides in William, asking him to accompany his family back to Rwanda, hoping that the trip will encourage Andrea to open up after meeting her pen pal. With great reluctance, William returns to Rwanda, where the specters of the past loom large, yet also promise answers and healing from the horrors of the genocide.

As the film reaches its emotional conclusion, both families come together to surprise Umuhoza and her parents during a celebratory coming-of-age event for the young girl. This pivotal encounter allows Andrea to meet the pen pal who profoundly impacted her life. Through themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, the film closes with William’s powerful realization about the militia soldier who once saved his family, encapsulated in the impactful saying: > “If everyone believed in the concept of ‘an eye for an eye,’ the whole world would go blind.”