ALIAS RUBY BLADE
“Larger-than-life story...at once forbidden affair, revolutionary triumph, and suspenseful political espionage.”
Intrigue. Romance. Revolution. It all comes together in this documentary film which chronicles the tumultuous birth of a new nation in East Timor through a never-before-seen perspective.
Kirsty Sword, a young Australian activist, aspired to be a documentary filmmaker, but instead became a underground operative for the Timorese resistance in Jakarta code named ‘Ruby Blade’. Her task: to become a conduit of information and instruction for the enigmatic leader of the resistance, Kay Rala “Xanana” Gusmão, while he was serving life in prison for his revolutionary activities. Through correspondence, they fell in love. Alias Ruby Blade captures their incredible love story from this beginning to the ultimate triumph of freedom in East Timor, demonstrating along the way the astonishing power of ordinary individuals to change the course of history. “
“Director Alex Meillier weaves a tale of bravery and selfless devotion”
“Compelling blend of political documentary and romance… deeply personal and inspirational”
“A testament to the strange, universal language of love”
“Compelling and undeniably convincing in it’s approach…an incredible documentation of teamwork, love, political activism and a nation’s brutal fight to be free.”
“This inspiring and enlightening documentary about an extraordinary relationship...is wholly engaging and incredibly absorbing.”