In a significant cinematic development, filmmakers Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah are set to direct a poignant film based on the tragic real-life events surrounding Sanda Dia, a young Black student who lost his life following a harrowing fraternity hazing incident at an esteemed Belgian university. The project is being produced by Brussels-based Komoko, a production company known for supporting visionary directors. This film aims to shed light on the systemic issues that led to Dia's untimely death and highlights the broader implications of such practices.
Tragic Events Unfolded at Catholic University of Leuven
In the autumn of 2018, tragedy struck at the prestigious Catholic University of Leuven. Sanda Dia, a promising 20-year-old student, was subjected to a brutal initiation ritual by members of an elite fraternity. During this ordeal, he was forced to consume a live goldfish, along with excessive amounts of fish oil and alcohol. Dia collapsed shortly after and tragically passed away two days later in a hospital. His death sent shockwaves through Belgium, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice. Despite the severity of their actions, the 18 fraternity members involved received only community service hours and nominal fines.
The film’s script, penned by El Arbi and Fallah, draws inspiration from the books written by Dia’s father, Ousmane (Papis) Dia, and journalist Pieter Huyberechts. These works provide a deeply personal account of the events leading up to Dia's death and the aftermath. For the directors, this project represents more than just a film; it is a heartfelt tribute to Sanda and a testament to his father's unwavering pursuit of justice.
Komoko, founded with a mission to champion bold and innovative filmmakers, sees this project as a milestone. The company has recently garnered attention for its production of “Têtes Brûlées,” which premiered at the Berlinale Generation section. With ambitious plans for future projects, including collaborations with renowned choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Komoko is positioning itself as a key player in the European film industry.
From a journalistic perspective, this film serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing systemic injustices within educational institutions. It underscores the need for stricter regulations and accountability in fraternity activities. By bringing this story to the screen, El Arbi and Fallah hope to honor Sanda's memory while advocating for meaningful change. The film promises to be both a moving tribute and a call to action, encouraging viewers to reflect on the broader societal issues it raises.