These Birds Walk

Near the middle of These Birds Walk, a documentary about a foundation for runaways and orphans in Karachi, Pakistan, two young boys get into a lengthy scrap with each other about a pair of missing sandals. It’s an upsetting scene to watch, the camera lingering on the kids as they settle their differences. Yet earlier on in the film, Omar, one of the would-be brawlers, had engaged with another runaway in a profound philosophical discussion on issues of faith and family. The great strength of this beautifully shot documentary is that it holds this paradox of childhood in perfect balance, displaying the youthful capacity for violence and wisdom in equal measure.

The Ehdi Foundation – the non-profit at the centre of the film – looks after children with unwavering love and dedication, and this compassion translates into the film itself. Each character is remarkably candid in front of the camera, which captures moments of raw, tangible feeling. There is unlikely to be a more emotional scene this year than watching Omar, who had previously boasted of not crying when beaten by his father, break down in tears next to one of his friends. [Nathanael Smith]