An underdog boxing movie from the Democratic Republic of the Congo brings a powerful, heart-wrenching true story to the screen, anchored by a compelling performance from young South African actor Ama Qamata. She portrays a teenage survivor of the widespread sexual violence against women and girls in the DRC, discovered by a boxing coach while living homeless on the streets. American filmmaker Matthew Leutwyler directs with a steady hand, crafting an earnest, heartfelt drama that does not shy away from horror but instead focuses on the strength and resilience of women and girls.
A Gritty Portrayal of Survival
Qamata plays Safi, a teenager working in slave-like conditions in a mineral mine. After escaping, she arrives barefoot in the city of Goma, finding a scrap of kerb to sleep on, surrounded by thugs and children sniffing glue. The setting feels so authentic that it must have been filmed on actual streets; no amount of street casting and set design could replicate the raw, edgy atmosphere. Flashbacks reveal Safi's happy childhood with her family and explain how she developed her ferocious right hook.
Meeting the Coach
One day, Safi encounters real-life boxing coach Balezi “Kibimango” Bagunda, portrayed by Hakeem Kae-Kazim. A former child soldier turned boxer, Kibimango trains a team of female fighters. The script follows many boxing movie cliches as Safi begins training at his gym, where the star fighter is Aisha, played by boxer Clarck Ntambwe, the film's inspiration. Though formulaic, these moments gain emotional power from the cast's performances, many of whom have lived experience of wartime atrocities.
A Devastating Twist
The end credits deliver a devastating twist: news that Kibomango was killed in 2025 while evacuating children from a local orphanage. Fight Like a Girl is in UK cinemas from 22 May.
