HBO Documentary, ‘Cries From Syria,’ Is a Terrifying Window Into the Horrors of the Syrian Crisis

Alex Aronson

A serene sunrise set against ocean waves crashing onto Syrian shores seems almost peaceful for a moment, then reality sets in when the body of a lifeless young boy washes up on the coast – reminding the viewer that a brutal story engulfs this scenic backdrop. The opening shot of the HBO documentary “Cries From Syria“ sets the tone for the entire piece that captures the real-life horrors of the Syrian crisis as told through haunting images, videos, and testimony.

The illuminating documentary takes a brutally honest look at the current humanitarian crisis that has defined Syria over the past five years. The crisis, which has evolved into a civil war, has divided the country and led to chaos. “Cries” shines a light on child protesters, revolution icons, activists and their relatives, and high-ranking Army generals, as they share stories of the tortured souls who are so afflicted by this terror.

One of the most sobering quotes in the documentary comes from a young male who speaks genuinely on the reality of current life inside his homeland: “if you want children, make new one – because yours are already dead.”

A key subject of this documentary, Kholoud Helmi, is just one of the refugees brave enough to share her story. As tears stream down her face, she speaks of her brother. The Syrian soldiers took him several years ago, and the family has not heard from him since. It has torn her family apart, as they fear he is dead. Her story serves as an everlasting reminder of the repercussions this war has had.  

The images of torture and war are brutal and at times very painful to watch – but they are useful and effective in illustrating the real horrors that occur in the country.  Still, the footage can be very gruesome, even for a war documentary.

Kudos should go to Russian director and Academy Award nominee, Evgeny Afineevsky – who is not afraid to take a bold and raw look at the current state in Syria – a state that many Americans have not yet been exposed to.

Academy Award winner Helen Mirren briefly serves as the narrator for this dark and honest exposé. Cher also debuts an original song written by Diane Warren, “Prayers For This World,” that uplifts the overall tone at the end of the documentary, a plea for the world to come together to find peace.

“Cries From Syria” premiered on HBO March 13 at 10 p.m. ET and is available on HBO GO.