Plot

Follow NGO medics treating front-line injuries caused by explosions in Kabul, to Refugee Camps in Iraq as well as deployment on rescue boats off the coast of Libya. With rare insights from Emergency's late enigmatic founder Dr Gino Strada.

A powerful story of hope narrated through the lives of medical professionals on the ground as they bravely confront war's terrors and civilian woes fleeing from terror in an ISIS overrun Northern Iraq, brutal violence in Afghanistan before Kabul's now infamous international evacuation, through to the tragic migrant humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean. An enduring story of humanity's resilience and compassion.—Graeme Alistair Scott

"Beyond the Beach - The Hell and The Hope" is a poignant and powerful documentary that delves deep into the world of humanitarian medical aid in war-torn regions. Directed by Graeme Alistair Scott and Buddy Squires, this film is a tribute to the relentless spirit of those who choose to work in some of the most dangerous and desperate places on Earth.

At the heart of the documentary is the Italian NGO Emergency, founded in 1994 by Dr. Gino Strada, a trauma surgeon driven by a profound commitment to provide free, high-quality medical care to victims of war and poverty. The film offers a window into the lives of the brave doctors, nurses, and volunteers who have left the comfort of their everyday lives to work under Emergency's banner. These selfless individuals navigate the challenges of providing medical care in conflict zones, refugee camps, and on rescue boats in perilous waters.

Set against the backdrop of explosive violence in Kabul, the desolation of refugee camps in Iraq, and the treacherous Mediterranean waters near Libya, "Beyond the Beach" showcases the harsh realities of war and displacement. Viewers are taken on a journey through these landscapes of despair, witnessing firsthand the critical, often life-saving work performed by Emergency's medical teams.

The film also serves as a rare insight into the life and philosophy of Dr. Gino Strada, whose vision and dedication to humanitarian principles guide the NGO's operations. Through interviews, on-the-ground footage, and personal stories, the documentary paints a picture of a man whose legacy is as impactful as the organization he founded.

The narrative is interwoven with personal stories of the medical staff, exploring their motivations, the emotional toll of their work, and their unwavering commitment to the ethos of Emergency. These stories of courage and compassion underscore the human capacity for altruism, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

"Beyond the Beach - The Hell and The Hope" is not just a film about the horrors of war and the plight of its victims; it is a testament to the power of hope and the enduring nature of the human spirit. It challenges viewers to confront the realities of conflict and the importance of humanitarian aid, leaving a lasting impression of the critical work done by organizations like Emergency and the enduring impact of Dr. Gino Strada's vision.