Few children are as vulnerable to violence and abuse as children caught up in armed conflict. In the 1980’s in the midst of El Salvador’s brutal civil war, children were being forcibly recruited into both the government army and FMLN rebel ranks at the age of 12. Innocent Voices, inspired by screenwriter Oscar Torres's own childhood, tells the story of Chava, an eleven-year-old boy who precariously treads the path between both camps, witnesses brutal violence, and struggles to support and protect his own family. Director Luis Mandoki has created one of the most evocative films ever made about the impact of conflict on families and young children. Although the setting is Central America, the incidents of threats, intimidation and mass recruiting of young boys echo the reality of Nepal’s recent history. Innocent Voices is heart-wrenching and powerful, with excellent performances by all the child actors.
Despite its subject matter, Innocent Voices is suitable for children as young as 12 years of age.