The Hearing

A family's struggle in seeking asylum to remain in Canada

The Hearing — Plot

After crossing 11 countries irregularly to seek asylum in Canada, Peggy, Simon and their three children are waiting for the hearing that will determine whether they get refugee status or not. Having fled political repression in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the family tries to rebuild a peaceful life in Montreal, in spite of the constant threat of deportation. Between ghosts from the past, hopes for the future, a complex legal maze and seemingly endless trial, the film delves into the struggle of the Nkunga Mbala family to remain in Canada. Offering unprecedented access to their hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board, the film unveils the opaque process of claiming asylum in Canada.

• Release date
• May 26, 2023
• Runtime
• 93 min
• Genres
• Documentary
• Director
• Émilie B. Guérette

The Hearing — Cast

Peggy Nkunga Ndona Self

S

Simon Mbala Kapela Self

A

Adoration Francis Nkunga Mbala Self

C

Consolation Sophie Nkunga Mbala Self

B

Benjamin Crédo Nkunga Mbala Self