“Touba" reveals a face of Islam essential to these divisive times. It chronicles the Grand Magaal pilgrimage of 1 million Sufi Muslims to the holy city of Touba, Senegal. Shot on 16mm, its vivid cinematography and integrated soundtrack elevate it to the level of humanist film poem. This observational film takes us inside the Mouride Brotherhood: one of Africa's most elusive organizations. Pilgrims travel from all over the world to pay homage to the life and teachings of Cheikh Amadou Bamba. His non-violent resistance to French colonial persecution in the late 19th century inspired a national movement: freedom of religious expression through pacifism. These are lessons the world can learn.

Director: E. Chai Vasarhelyi

Executive Producer: Scott & Diana Duncan, Miklos A. Vasarhelyi

Producer: E. Chai Vasarhelyi,

Cinematographer: Scott Duncan

Editor: Eric Hendricks

Music: Jean-Philippe Rykiel

Additional Credits: Associate Producer: Hilary Gish, Associate Producer: Gwyn Welles, Sound Editor: Deborah Wallach, Mixer: Paul Hsu, C5, Colorist: Siggy Ferstl

Principal Cast: MC Solaar, Sahr Ngaujah

Vasarhelyi is a critically acclaimed NYC based filmmaker. Her film “Youssou N’Dour: I Bring What I Love” screened at over 50 festivals, winning numerous awards. Credits include “A Normal Life” and "Touba". She is currently in post-production on "Mr. President" and "Little Troopers". She is a Sundance Fellow and a graduate of Princeton University.

Public Film Contact
Adam J. Segal
The 2050 Group
adam@the2050group.com
(202) 422-4673