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This film cleverly weaves archival and new material into a fascinating
portrait of an out-of-the-ordinary Swiss/American swashbuckler: Ernst Aebi is a
successfull painter, sculpturer, illustrator and writer. He has made a
large fortune as one of the pioneer loft converters in Manhattan's Soho. While
searching for new challenges Aebi finds an oasis in the middle of the Sahara
that is disappearing beneath shifting dunes.
He buries much of his capital in a project that many consider sheer lunacy.
He becomes the bearer of hope for the people who know neither fruits nor
vegetables. Under his guidance, the village awakens to a new life: a
productive vegetable garden, a school, and even a small hotel rise from the
barren sands.
A civil war in Mali forces Aebi to escape “his” village in the early
nineties. He leaves behind a blooming oasis and a family of friends who await
his return.
Almost twenty years pass until Aebi is finally able to get back. On a
journey between hope and doubt.
A film about tolerance, conflict and friendship between cultures. Barefoot
to Timbuktu takes you on a journey you won't forget.
A documentary film of Mesch & Ugge Film Productions
In Swiss cinemas from September 25th 2009
Playing in New York, USA from February 12th 2010
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