Summary
Highlights
The video opens by highlighting K2Rhym's unexpected rise as a presidential candidate in Tunisia, despite facing a four-year prison sentence and a lifetime ban from presidential elections. This is juxtaposed with the country's critical political situation, with K2Rhym being a popular figure who embodies the essence of Tunisians. The narrative then shifts to the 1987 coup where Ben Ali replaced Bourguiba, detailing the political maneuvering, threats, and a reported plot to assassinate Rashed Al-Ghannoushi. Key figures like Abdel Karim Al-Jilani Ghouma and Habib Ammar recount the events leading to Bourguiba's removal, emphasizing the perceived necessity of intervention to save the country from a bloodbath.
The era of Ben Ali's presidency began with a sense of hope and a focus on uplifting Tunisia, particularly addressing issues in marginalized areas and supporting lower-income classes. Colonel Mohamed Berhouma, Director of Presidential Protocol, describes Ben Ali's efforts to build infrastructure and his diplomatic approach, including a notable exchange with Saddam Hussein at an Arab Summit. The video also reveals Ben Ali's firm stance against foreign control, exemplified by his refusal to hastily meet with US Vice-President Al Gore, a decision that seemingly had long-term repercussions for US-Tunisia relations.
Nesrine Ben Ali, daughter of President Ben Ali, shares personal insights into her father's presidency, describing the challenges of growing up in the spotlight and the security measures that constrained her life. She highlights her father's changing character after the birth of his son, becoming 'reckless' and influenced by his family. The narrative contrasts Ben Ali's initial refusal to buy a private jet with a later extravagant purchase under his wife Leila's influence. The video also touches on Ben Ali's growing isolation and his reliance on sycophants. It recounts the events leading to his fall, including the catalyst of Mohamed Bouazizi's self-immolation and the perceived betrayal by close associates. Ben Ali's final days in power are depicted as a period of disbelief and resentment, convinced that his downfall was orchestrated by political Islam and foreign entities. His last public speech is described as marked by nervousness and a sense of defeat, culminating in his flight from Tunisia on January 14, 2011, which he viewed as a 'dropping' rather than a 'revolution.'
The story shifts to Karim Gharbi, who buried Ben Ali, and introduces viewers to his humble beginnings in Qsar Said, a marginalized neighborhood in Tunisia. Friends and family, including his sister Djamila Gharbi, describe his challenging upbringing amidst poverty and lack of opportunities. Despite a strict father who envisioned a different path for him, Karim's passion for rap music blossomed. He and his friend Wissam Cheha were pioneers of hip-hop in their neighborhood, initially met with skepticism. His mother's unwavering support, in contrast to his father's desire for a traditional career, is highlighted. The challenges of breaking into the music scene in a non-democratic country where rap was often rejected lead to his decision to seek opportunities abroad.
In 1996, Karim left Tunisia for Marseille, France, drawn by the vibrant rap scene. Facing financial hardship, he experienced homelessness before finding work at a market. His determination led him to meet a DJ who encouraged him to blend Arabic and French in his music. After a disheartening attempt to connect with IAM, a prominent French rap group, Karim persevered, eventually meeting Freeman of IAM who offered guidance and a clearer vision. After his mother and sister joined him in Paris, he continued to struggle, working difficult jobs, including demolition, often unpaid due to his undocumented status. Despite the arduous conditions, he dedicated his days to music, practicing at a free public studio. A significant turning point came when he collaborated with Tunisiano on the song 'Rap Tae L'Bled,' a track that quickly gained popularity and secured him a contract with Universal Music France, marking the turning point in his career.
Following the success of 'Rap Ta3 L'Bled,' K2Rhym's career rapidly ascended with collaborations with international artists like Mokobé, Montana, and Aketo. His manager, Farouk, facilitated a major project with Willy Denzey and the American group En Vogue, showcasing his growing influence. The documentary highlights his strategic move into music production, inspired by artists like Dr. Dre. This led to his collaboration with renowned artists such as The Game, Snoop Dogg, French Montana, and Fat Joe, expanding his reach and demonstrating his commitment to peace and unity through music. His participation in the World Cup project with Ronaldinho further solidified his international presence.
The film explores K2Rhym's early and successful foray into cryptocurrency starting in 2012, influenced by his IT contacts from the music industry. Despite initial skepticism from financial experts like Salem Khamas, his investments in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana proved highly lucrative, particularly during market booms. This financial success fueled his extensive humanitarian efforts, driven by his upbringing in a working-class neighborhood. He describes helping children in Kenya and Brazil, and refugees in Kurdistan. Civil society activists like Menoubya Neqaa and Souad Ayati recount his impactful work in Tunisia, renovating schools, equipping hospitals, and organizing oxygen campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing his hands-on approach and dedication to serving his community.
K2Rhym's commitment to community development is exemplified by his renovation of a dilapidated football field in his old neighborhood, transforming it from a site of 'dirty business' into a vibrant arena for youth sports. His unexpected gesture of bringing football legend Ronaldinho to Qsar Said to inspire local children is a testament to his belief in giving back and fostering hope. He emphasizes the importance of a digital transition in administration, improved healthcare, and educational reform as crucial for Tunisia's future, advocating for policies that streamline business, regulate cryptocurrency, and invest in new economic sectors.
The documentary delves into K2Rhym's personal life, recounting his meeting and eventual marriage to Nesrine Ben Ali, daughter of the former president. Their relationship initially faced controversy due to Nesrine's family's celebrity status and K2Rhym's image, but his sincerity and good reputation eventually won them over. K2Rhym describes his unique relationship with Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who found solace and trust in him during his exile. Despite their past political differences, a bond of friendship and respect formed, with Ben Ali expressing regret over Tunisia's post-revolution state. The film concludes with a poignant account of Ben Ali's final illness and death in Saudi Arabia, where K2Rhym stood by Nesrine and played a crucial role in his burial in Medina, fulfilling Ben Ali's last wish. This act of forgiveness and connection between men from vastly different backgrounds leaves a lasting impression, emphasizing the power of reconciliation.