City of Joy (2016): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2016, City of Joy is a documentary film directed by Madeleine Gavin, running about 74 minutes. “When we tell the truth, we change the world” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. The Democratic Republic of Congo has endured 20 years of devastating violence. Rape has been used as a weapon of war to destroy community and access precious minerals. Congo is often referred to as “the worst place in the world to be a woman.” "City of Joy" tells a different story of the region. The film focuses on Jane, a student at a center where women who have suffered unimaginable abuse join together to become leaders. We also meet the founders of the center: a devout Congolese Doctor, a Congolese activist, and a radical N.Y. playwright. The film weaves between joy and pain as these individuals band together to demand hope in a place so often deemed hopeless.

Who’s in it. City of Joy stars Christine Schuler-Deschryver as Herself, Denis Mukwege Mukengere as Himself, V as Herself and Jane Mukunilwa as Herself.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.4/10, City of Joy has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Netflix and Netflix Standard with Ads. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch City of Joy page.

If you liked it. Fans of City of Joy tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.