Who would’ve thought that one coffee farmer could have such a big impact?
Dukale’s Dream is an inspiring documentary that tells the story of a coffee farmer living in Ethiopia named Dukale and how he works tirelessly in order to provide for his family. The film follows the adventures of acting superstar Hugh Jackman as he travels to Ethiopia to further his understanding of what the quality of life is like for people living in in Ethiopia and trying to figure out what he can do to help the people there. Hugh, upon arriving at the coffee farm owned by Dukale, learns about the struggles these famers face and that they have to work constantly in order to provide for their families Hugh then sets off to help Dukale and tries his best to give back to the people in need. When he leaves Ethiopia, he realizes that there is much more work that needs to be done in order to help raise these humble and hardworking people above the poverty line and help them live comfortable lives. He then takes it upon himself to start the Laughing Man Foundation which sells coffee and tea that he directly buys from people like Dukale and brings awareness to fair trade products, a method which ensures that the farmers are getting a reasonable price for their products as well as guaranteeing that no abuses were present on the farmer’s side such as imposing child labor.
Unlike narrative films, documentaries are meant to bring awareness to certain topics and cause discussion. And this documentary did just that. Not only did it bring awareness to the farmers in Africa and South America who work to the bone to survive but also shines a light on how we as consumers can help these people. It is one thing to show the farmers of these countries and their daily routines and leave it at that. However, what this film does exceptionally well is it gives ideas on how to give back to these people and mobilizes the people who have the capabilities to give back to people in need. This documentary starts a conversation and a big one at that. Hugh Jackman says that now he only buys fair trade coffee because it helps support coffee farmers like Dukale, and this in turn sends the right message that it doesn’t take much transitioning in someone’s daily life in order to make a big impact on another’s life. This film is uplifting, inspiring, and heartwarming, and really has everything that makes an exceptional documentary. The film is now playing.