City of Joy

Inside the Making of City of Joy: The Documentary That Gave Congo’s Survivors a Voice

Netflix’s City of Joy (2016) isn’t just a documentary—it’s a lifeline. Directed by Madeleine Gavin, the film follows the creation of a revolutionary leadership center in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where women who’ve survived unimaginable violence rebuild their lives. But behind the camera, the project was as much about trust as it was about storytelling. latestnetflix.com's read is that here’s what we know about the making of this powerful film.

A Director’s Leap of Faith

Madeleine Gavin didn’t set out to make a conventional documentary. The film’s raw, intimate approach—centering on the women of City of Joy rather than detached narration—was a deliberate choice to let survivors speak for themselves. In interviews, Gavin has emphasized the importance of collaboration, working closely with co-founders Christine Schuler-Deschryver and Dr. Denis Mukwege Mukengere (a Nobel Peace Prize laureate) to ensure the film honored the women’s stories without exploitation .

The documentary premiered at DOC NYC 2016, where Gavin and Schuler-Deschryver discussed the challenges of filming in a region plagued by conflict. Security concerns were ever-present, but the team prioritized the women’s safety and agency, even if it meant adjusting schedules or locations . The result? A film that feels urgent, not voyeuristic.

The Women Behind the Movement

At the heart of City of Joy are its subjects—women like Jane Mukunilwa, whose resilience anchors the narrative. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the horrors they’ve endured, but it’s equally focused on their transformation. Schuler-Deschryver, a Congolese activist, has called the center a “place of rebirth,” and the film captures that alchemy: trauma turned into purpose .

Dr. Mukwege, known globally for his work treating survivors of sexual violence, appears as both a healer and a guide. His presence in the film underscores the medical and psychological support that makes City of Joy possible. Meanwhile, the women’s stories—often told in their own words—reveal how the center’s programs, from therapy to vocational training, help them reclaim their lives .

Netflix’s Role and the Film’s Reception

City of Joy found a home on Netflix, where its trailer racked up millions of views . The platform’s global reach amplified the documentary’s impact, sparking conversations about sexual violence in conflict zones. Critics took notice, too: the film holds an 8.3/10 rating on SensCritique, with viewers praising its emotional depth and unflinching honesty .

But the real measure of success? The center itself. Since the documentary’s release, City of Joy has expanded its programs, training hundreds of women to become leaders in their communities. The film wasn’t just a record of their struggles—it was a catalyst for change.

Unanswered Questions

For all its transparency, City of Joy leaves some details in the shadows. How did Gavin and her team navigate the ethical tightrope of filming survivors? What was the budget, and how were funds allocated? And while the documentary highlights the center’s founding, it doesn’t delve into the day-to-day logistics of filming in a war-torn region. These gaps aren’t flaws—they’re a reminder that some stories are still unfolding.