Private Project

For The Lives of Others

In a country that prides itself on democracy, a group of peaceful activists, known for chalking messages and holding signs, faces a terrifying escalation: repression so severe that their right to speak freely becomes their last, desperate stand.

  • Yama Rauff
    Director
  • Stefán Bjarni Guðnason
    Producer
  • Blue
    Key Cast
  • Yellow
    Key Cast
  • Mink
    Key Cast
  • Pelle
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 20 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    November 23, 2024
  • Country of Filming:
    Denmark
  • Language:
    Danish, English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Yama Rauff

Yama Rauff began his journey with video editing, dubbing, and voice-over work prior to filmmaking. In 2015, he debuted with No Woman, a short film that won international awards. Having worked across various genres and styles, blending poetry with visuals, Yama now focuses on non-fiction, embracing an observational approach to explore the realities of life, capturing the experiences of humans and other animals alike.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

For the Lives of Others is a deeply personal project born out of my commitment to amplifying the voices of those who confront oppression head-on—whether human or non-human. At its heart, this film is about the fight for dignity, compassion, and justice. It follows a group of activists who risk their safety to challenge the systems of violence that many of us overlook in our daily lives.

Through their struggles, I sought to capture not only the harsh realities of repression and systemic resistance but also the raw humanity and resilience of those on the frontlines. The film’s observational approach is intentional; I wanted the audience to experience the urgency of the moments, to feel the tension in the air, and to witness the weight of their courage without filters or narrations.

This is not just a story about activism—it’s a story about interconnectedness. The title reflects the idea that these individuals, privileged in some ways yet vulnerable in others, dedicate their lives to advocating for beings who we (sadly) refuse to listen to. It’s about stepping outside of one’s own comfort to fight for those who have no voice, no power, and no future unless someone intervenes.

I hope For the Lives of Others invites reflection on the cost of apathy, the strength of solidarity, and the urgency of change. Above all, I hope it sparks conversations that ripple far beyond the screen, moving us closer to a world where liberation—for all—becomes a shared reality.

— Yama